The program provides sufficient flexibility to accommodate the different needs of students from a variety of disciplines (e.g. medicine, nursing, dentistry, behavioral medicine etc.) and capitalizes on the interdisciplinary strength of Stony Brook University.  It includes an intensive didactic experience that covers a comprehensive curriculum in the principles and practice of clinical research, and active participation in seminar series and special events throughout the course of study.  

Training is focused on:

a) patient-oriented research designed to identify mechanisms of human disease, develop therapeutic interventions, conduct clinical trials, and/or develop new technologies;

b) epidemiologic and behavioral studies; and

c) outcomes and health services research.

 In recognition of the fact that students will have diverse backgrounds, training needs, and career objectives, the didactic requirements will be tailored to the individual.  However, a core curriculum designed to expose students to the fundamental principles of clinical research design and the breadth of methodology required to pursue a broad range of career opportunities in clinical research has been identified and will be required of all students, while at the same time permitting individuals to develop in depth expertise in areas of selected research interest.  To achieve the latter, elective courses that already exist will be selected for each student program as appropriate as part of the academic advising process.  The required courses use a variety of pedagogies that emphasize a multidisciplinary approach, and have been specifically designed with the adult learner in mind.  For example, the Ethics course is presented in small group format to facilitate discussion and interaction of students with different backgrounds and perspectives, whereas the data management course is a blended course combining web based voice over PowerPoint presentations along with interactive in-person sessions to support the students learning styles.