The Programme

• Course Content
  • The module is designed to be completed part-time over 3 months.
  • The programme content will be delivered over 4 full days held in person in the Whitla Medical Building, Queen’s University Belfast. Course dates are to be confirmed. 
  • Attendance at >75% of the teaching sessions is required to successfully complete the module.
  • The module will also comprise self-directed learning (approximately 180 hours) from a selection of resources to include reading, e-learning, and other online courses.

  Assessment will be comprised of:

  • Self-directed learning portfolio (pass/fail)
  • MCQ exam (40%)
  • Longitudinal reflective exercise (60%) based on trial protocols
• Outcomes
  • To provide participants with foundational knowledge of clinical research delivery, focused on clinical trials.
  • To help participants understand research delivery and regulatory infrastructure in Northern Ireland and the wider UK.
  • To provide participants with necessary skills required to facilitate the set-up and successful operational delivery of a clinical trial, including screening, eligibility, consent and randomisation.
  • To understand the processes involved in effective data collection, trial management and oversight.
  • To understand the ethical framework involved in clinical trials, and the steps needed to ensure the safety of trial participants and delivery of the research.
  • To foster the acquisition of practical skills required to manage study documentation, data entry and laboratory sample processing.
• Delivery

  The programme content will be delivered held over four full days (dates to be confirmed).

  Day 1 - 26 March 2025

  • Welcome to course, assessment, and general overview of research
  • Setting up a Clinical Trial

  Day 2 - 9 April 2025

  • Collecting and managing data during clinical trials
  • Managing the conduct of a trial

  Day 3 - 30 April 2025

  • Patient screening, eligibility, consent, and randomisation
  • Managing risk and reporting adverse events

  Day 4 - 21 May 2025

  • Introduction to basic laboratory procedures and documentation
  • Multiple Choice Examination
• Selection Criteria

  Applicants should have at least one of the following:   

  1. A minimum of an Honours degree, or equivalent in a biological sciences or healthcare related subject.  
  2. At least three years’ experience working in a healthcare-related role. 
  3. Current employment in a healthcare research-related role.

  
  Please note that if a candidate does not have the academic qualifications stated in criterion 1, but can prove they have the relevant experience (criteria 2 or 3), their application will still be considered.  A Recognised Experience of Learning (RPEL) form will be made available to them to complete in addition to the online application. In this instance, individuals will be contacted directly.  If RPEL is required, please ensure you add all information to your application. The more information provided, the more helpful it is for the admissions process.  

  The Department for the Economy Skill Up Fund is open to applicants resident in Northern Ireland only. It is not open to applicants from outside Northern Ireland.   International Candidates are not eligible for DfE funding.

  To be eligible for a fully funded place under this programme you must:

  • over 18 years of age;
  • eligible to work in Northern Ireland;
  • settled in Northern Ireland, and has been ordinarily resident in the UK for at least three years;
  • or is a person who has indefinite leave to enter or remain in the UK
  • Must meet the existing entry requirements for the course. 

  Applicants should indicate on the application form if they want to be considered for DfE funding.  

  Due to high demand you are advised to apply as early as possible.

  We may be able to consider self-funded or employer funded applicants on a case by case basis, as capacity on the individual PGCert programmes allow. Please indicate in your application if you wish to be considered as a self-funded or employer funded applicant.

  *EU & International applicants may be eligible, but must be aware of visa implications and follow up as necessary for this part time course.