Clinical Research (MSc) Dresden International University

Master clinical research methods and innovation – in a fully online format and in collaboration with Harvard’s PPCR programme.

The Master's programme in Clinical Research (MPCR) at Dresden International University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the methodology and practice of clinical research. Our programme creates an international platform for medical scientists that emphasises teamwork, creativity, out-of-the-box thinking, and multidisciplinary collaboration. 

In addition, the programme strengthens core competencies that are essential for clinical research and academic projects – study design, statistics, and scientific writing. Students develop these fundamentals alongside methodological and practical training throughout the curriculum, supporting high-quality research work from planning to publication.

Through our strong partnership with Harvard University, we recognise the grades of the international nine-month distance-learning programme “Principles and Practice of Clinical Research (PPCR)” offered by the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, allowing graduates of the PPCR course to continue with our Master's programme.

For a detailed programme of the PPCR course, please visit www.hsph.me/ppcr.

Note on the spring 2027 intake

In spring 2027, Modules M2 and M3 of the Master’s programme in "Clinical Research (MSc)" will start under the academic leadership of Dr Illigens and Prof Dr Siepmann.

"Clinical Research (MSc)" is currently not available as a complete Master’s programme for enrolment at once. However, there is still a pathway to earning the Master’s degree through Modules M2 and M3, the Principles and Practice of Clinical Research (PPCR) programme offered by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, and the subsequent Master’s thesis.

If you are interested in the programme, our study advisory team will be happy to advise you on the available entry options and your individual pathway toward earning the Master’s degree.

Key benefits of the Master’s programme in Clinical Research:

• Gain an in-depth understanding of clinical research and prepare for a successful career in science, healthcare, or the research industry.
• Develop advanced knowledge and practical skills to design, manage, and evaluate clinical studies with scientific precision.
• Learn in a collaborative environment that fosters active learning, teamwork, and innovative thinking.
• Work closely with experienced lecturers and researchers to develop new ideas and research questions, strengthen your analytical thinking and methodological skills, and build a lasting professional network.
• Combine theory with practice – from contract negotiation to independent project implementation and risk-benefit evaluation.
• Publish your Master’s thesis in an international peer-reviewed journal and contribute to the global scientific community. You can find the publications of programme graduates via PubMed.

 Harvard’s PPCR programme

• Completed studies (240 ECTS), which are recognised in your country of origin
• Registration for the PPCR course at the “Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health” or you have a certificate of having passed this course
• Proof of currently working in the field of clinical research
• Proof of at least one year of professional experience
• Knowledge of German is not necessary. The programme will be conducted in English.

None (DIU is not a member of the "Studentenwerk" organisation.)

The average living costs per semester is the number of months multiplied by currently valid BaföG rate (an average estimation of monthly living costs according to the German Federal Training Assistance Act [BaföG]), which has been 934 EUR since July 2022.

It is generally possible to study full-time and work on a part-time basis. With a student visa, students have permission to work 120 days a year. The problem is that the lecture schedule is not identical every week, which makes it difficult to have regular working hours each week. In the past, students have found assistant part-time jobs in sales, production, and cleaning services.

Career days, network events

• Finding accommodation is a long process, so you need patience and start the search well in advance!
• Should the search stress or trouble you, get a provisional accommodation (guest house/hotel/hostel) for the first few weeks!
• Use your social networks and student groups to your advantage!
• Gather your ideas, questions and wishes in advance and then get in touch with us for the best possible assistance!
• Don't underestimate the process involved; as is the case with everything in Germany, searching for accommodation has more bureaucracy involved than expected!