Campus
Delivery
Online
Study Option
Full-time & Part-time
Credential
Ontario College Graduate Certificate

About the Clinical Research (CRQ) Program

In this graduate certificate program, you will learn research design concepts, analysis and the quality assurance required for daily operations in the clinical research field. You will examine clinical studies across the pharmaceutical, medical device and natural health product sectors that give the competitive edge required in this dynamic industry. In this hands-on program, you will work alongside industry professionals and develop a network of contacts ahead of graduation.

Skills

Throughout this program you will develop the following skills:

  • Conduct research design concepts
  • Analysis and quality assurance of daily operations in clinical trials development process for products such as drugs, medical devices, biopharmaceuticals and natural health products
  • Identify the roles and responsibilities of the different positions within the clinical research processes
  • Learn to incorporate ethical practices

Program Duration

Study at your own pace: In this program you’ll have the flexibility to choose how many courses you want to take each term. Students who study full-time can complete this program in as little as eight months (two semesters). Duration will depend on the number of courses taken each term. See courses for more information.

Maximum completion time: In accordance with ministry requirements, all students must complete the program within two years of being admitted.

Work Experience

Optional Work Term

This program offers the option to complete a work term, providing valuable hands-on experience in your field of study. If you are interested in completing a work term, apply to the PROGRAMNAME program.​

If you select the work term stream you will have the opportunity to participate in a work term(s) if eligibility requirements are maintained. You will have the flexibility to transfer to the non-work term stream at any time. The work term(s) is similar in length to an academic semester and is typically a full-time position that may be paid or unpaid. The work term job search is student-driven and participation in the work term stream does not guarantee that a work position will be secured. However, you will receive guidance and support through in-class career workshops and one-on-one coaching to help prepare for the work term. Additional fees are required for those participating in the optional work term stream, regardless of success in securing a work position. For more information, see fee details.

The work term can be completed in person, online or in a hybrid format, depending on the hiring organization.

Program Availability

Start in Study Option Location Availability
Jan. 2027 Full-time Online Open
Jan. 2027 Part-time Online Open
May 2027 Full-time Online Open
May 2027 Part-time Online Open
Sept. 2027 Full-time Online Open
Sept. 2027 Part-time Online Open

Availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.

Start in Study Option Location Availability
Sept. 2026 Full-time Online Closed
Jan. 2027 Full-time Online Open
May 2027 Full-time Online Open

Availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.

International students: Studying part-time is not an available option as this will impact your study permit and PGWP eligibility. Review the requirements before choosing your program and study option.

Program and Course Delivery

This program is offered online. Students learn remotely and do not need to come to campus. Online learning can be synchronous – scheduled class time with professors – or asynchronous – no scheduled class time, with all learning independent.

Your Career

Graduates of the program can explore the following career options:

  • Clinical research assistant
  • Clinical research associate
  • Clinical records associate
  • Clinical trials monitor

Affiliations and Associations

  • Clinical Research Association of Canada (CRAC)
  • Network of Networks (N2)
  • Consortium of Academic Programs in Clinical Research (CoAPCR)

The Seneca Polytechnic Difference

This is where university meets college. Where theory meets practice. Where ambition meets flexibility.

Experiential Learning

Graduate career ready and world ready. This program has an optional work term to help you hone essential skills for the workplace.

Prior Experience

Earn credit for previous studies, work experience or training through Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition and transfer credits.

Career Support

Seneca Works offers students and graduates lifelong access to an exclusive job board, career coaching, networking and more.

The Service Hub

The Service Hub is your one-stop source of information about everything from registering and paying fees to student services and life on campus.

Student Experiences

Graduate Career-Ready

Take the next step in your academic journey at Seneca. Join thousands of graduates who are making a difference here and around the world.

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