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The Certificate in Clinical and Translational Science (CTS) at OU Health Sciences is a dynamic, interdisciplinary program designed to equip students and professionals with essential research skills to bridge the gap between scientific discoveries and real-world health solutions. This certificate offers focused training in clinical and translational research methods and skills that are critical for investigating complex human health challenges, fostering effective multidisciplinary teams, and advancing biomedical science across Oklahoma and beyond. Whether you are a PhD or postdoctoral student, a clinician with a professional doctorate, or a community or Tribal health professional looking to build a research career, the CTS Certificate offers a flexible and impactful pathway to elevate your role in health research. With expert faculty, access to cutting-edge resources, and a format designed to complement existing degree or professional programs, this certificate helps position graduates to contribute meaningfully to clinical studies, collaborative research efforts, and evidence-based innovation in health care settings. As a shorter alternative to the MS in Clinical and Translational Science, the certificate provides a strong foundation in research without the time commitment of a thesis-based degree. 

Class Size


Credit Requirements

12 Credit Hours

Average time to complete the program

1 years

Curriculum

Didactic Courses Training Components  

Twelve credit hours of online coursework offered through the Master of Science in Clinical and Translational Science degree program are required. These will include:  

  • Foundations of Clinical Research (CTS 5143) 
  • Foundations of Translational Research (CTS 5133) 
  • Biostatistics Methods I (BSE 5163)  
  • Principles of Epidemiology (BSE 5113)  

Research Practicum 

  • Practicum Preparation Course (CTS 5221). Course will provide the theoretical and practical foundation for the Research Practicum. 
  • Mentored Clinical or Translational Science Research Practicum (CTS 5950). Students will write either a seed grant proposal or a research manuscript for submission to a peer-reviewed journal, under the direction of a mentoring committee. 

Admission Requirements

Applicants must hold a graduate degree from an accredited institution or Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution plus one year of health sciences research experience. Grade point average of 3.0 or above calculated using the upper-division coursework, last 60 hours of the bachelor’s degree or using graduate coursework. Must have earned a passing grade in College Algebra or a higher college‐level math course. 

What makes this program unique?

  • Combines didactic training in clinical and translational science, epidemiology, and biostatistics with mentored, hands-on experience. 
  • Practicum includes a choice between writing a seed grant proposal or a publishable research manuscript with faculty mentorship. 
  • Enhances real-world research skills and builds a strong foundation for academic and professional growth. 
  • Ideal for students interested pursuing research-related roles or advanced graduate training in academic, clinical, or public health settings. 

Program Details

Location Offered

Oklahoma City


Degree Acquired

Certificate in Clinical & Translational Science


Application Window

Fall 2025:
Applications accepted through July 1, 2025
Spring 2026:
Applications due October 15, 2025 
  

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OU Heath Sciences has given me the opportunity to interact with multiple labs and learn new skills. It has let me make connections and see different ways that research is and can be done.

Jeremy Alexander
Ahmad Lab, Cell Biology PhD Program, Second Year

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