Are you looking to build a career in clinical trials and drug development? The LICQual Level 3 Diploma in Clinical Research and Drug Development (Dip Clinical Research) is an internationally recognized qualification designed to help healthcare professionals, graduates, and aspiring researchers gain the skills needed to succeed in this fast‑growing field.
This diploma provides a strong foundation in clinical research principles, regulatory frameworks, and ethical standards. Learners explore how new medicines are developed, tested, and approved, while gaining practical knowledge in trial design, data management, and compliance with international guidelines. The program is ideal for those who want to enhance their expertise in healthcare research or transition into the pharmaceutical industry.
Unlike short courses or generic certifications, the Dip Clinical Research qualification is accredited and globally respected. By completing the Clinical Research Level 3 Diploma online, you not only strengthen your professional profile but also open doors to diverse opportunities in pharmaceutical companies, research organizations, and healthcare institutions worldwide.
The course is structured to be approachable and engaging, ensuring that complex topics such as regulatory compliance and drug development are explained in clear, practical terms. This makes it easier for learners to apply their knowledge directly in real‑world settings. With a focus on evidence‑based practice and patient safety, the program prepares you to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of clinical research.
In short, the LICQual Level 3 Diploma in Clinical Research and Drug Development is more than just a qualification. It is your pathway to becoming a trusted professional in clinical trials, drug development, and healthcare research. Whether you are starting your journey or advancing your career, this diploma offers the skills, accreditation, and confidence to move forward.
Course Overview
Qualification Title
LICQual Level 3 Diploma in Clinical Research and Drug Development (Dip Clinical Research)
Total Units
6
Total Credits
60
GLH
240
Qualification #
LICQ2201163
Qualification Specification
To enroll in the LICQual Level 3 Diploma in Clinical Research and Drug Development (Dip Clinical Research) , applicants must meet the following criteria:
|
Qualification# |
Unit Title |
Credits |
GLH |
|---|---|---|---|
|
LICQ2201163-1 |
Introduction to Clinical Research |
10 |
40 |
|
LICQ2201163-2 |
Clinical Trial Design and Methodology |
10 |
40 |
|
LICQ2201163-3 |
Regulatory and Ethical Requirements |
10 |
40 |
|
LICQ2201163-4 |
Data Management and Analysis |
10 |
40 |
|
LICQ2201163-5 |
Pharmacovigilance and Safety Monitoring |
10 |
40 |
|
LICQ2201163-6 |
Applied Clinical Research Project |
10 |
40 |
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
Unit 1: Introduction to Clinical Research
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to
- Explain the fundamentals of clinical research and the drug development process
- Identify and describe the phases of clinical trials and their objectives
- Analyse the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders in clinical research
- Demonstrate understanding of professional standards in clinical research practice
Unit 2: Clinical Trial Design and Methodology
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to
- Explain different clinical trial designs and methodologies
- Develop protocols incorporating randomisation, blinding, and control measures
- Analyse statistical considerations and methods for clinical research
- Apply trial design principles to ensure valid and reliable study outcomes
Unit 3: Regulatory and Ethical Requirements
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to
- Explain Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and ethical guidelines in clinical research
- Apply regulatory requirements and procedures to ensure compliance in trials
- Analyse the importance of informed consent and patient safety
- Demonstrate understanding of legal and ethical responsibilities in clinical research
Unit 4: Data Management and Analysis
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to
- Apply techniques for data collection, validation, and database management
- Analyse clinical trial data using appropriate statistical methods
- Interpret study results to support decision-making in drug development
- Demonstrate accurate documentation and reporting of trial outcomes
Unit 5: Pharmacovigilance and Safety Monitoring
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to
- Explain the principles of pharmacovigilance and post-marketing surveillance
- Apply procedures for adverse event reporting and safety monitoring
- Analyse risk management strategies to ensure patient safety
- Demonstrate understanding of regulatory and ethical obligations in pharmacovigilance
Unit 6: Applied Clinical Research Project
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to
- Plan and execute a clinical research project addressing real-world scenarios
- Apply trial management, regulatory, and ethical principles in practice
- Analyse project data and provide evidence-based recommendations
- Present findings professionally, demonstrating applied knowledge of clinical research and drug development
The LICQual Level 3 Diploma in Clinical Research and Drug Development (Dip Clinical Research) is designed for learners who want to build a career in clinical trials, drug development, and healthcare research. This internationally accredited qualification is ideal for healthcare professionals, graduates, and aspiring researchers who want to gain practical skills, global recognition, and career advancement opportunities. Whether you are starting your journey or upgrading your expertise, this diploma provides the knowledge and confidence to succeed in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries.
1. Healthcare Professionals Seeking Career Growth
- Doctors, nurses, and pharmacists aiming to specialize in clinical research
- Professionals looking to transition into drug development and clinical trials
- Healthcare staff seeking internationally accredited qualifications
- Those wanting to enhance patient safety and evidence‑based practice skills
- Individuals aiming to expand career opportunities in hospitals and research centers
2. Graduates in Life Sciences and Medicine
- Students with degrees in biology, chemistry, or medicine
- Fresh graduates seeking specialized training in clinical trials
- Learners aiming to strengthen their CV with an accredited diploma
- Those interested in pharmaceutical industry careers worldwide
- Graduates preparing for advanced studies in healthcare research
3. Pharmaceutical Industry Professionals
- Employees working in drug manufacturing and development
- Clinical trial coordinators seeking formal qualifications
- Professionals aiming to improve regulatory compliance knowledge
- Staff wanting to understand international drug approval processes
- Individuals preparing for leadership roles in pharma research
4. Research Enthusiasts and Aspiring Scientists
- Learners passionate about medical innovation and drug discovery
- Individuals interested in designing and managing clinical trials
- Those seeking practical knowledge in data management and analysis
- Students aiming to contribute to global healthcare advancements
- Aspiring scientists wanting internationally recognized credentials
5. International Students and Global Learners
- Learners seeking accredited diplomas recognized worldwide
- Students aiming to work in multinational pharmaceutical companies
- Professionals looking for online, flexible learning options
- Those wanting to meet global healthcare and research standards
- Individuals preparing for careers across borders in clinical research
6. Career Changers Entering Healthcare Research
- Professionals from other industries transitioning into healthcare
- Individuals seeking a structured pathway into clinical trials
- Those wanting to gain practical, job‑ready skills quickly
- Learners aiming to boost employability with accredited qualifications
- Career changers motivated by opportunities in drug development
7. Policy Makers and Regulatory Professionals
- Individuals working in healthcare policy and regulation
- Professionals needing deeper knowledge of clinical trial ethics
- Staff involved in drug approval and compliance processes
- Those aiming to strengthen expertise in international standards
- Learners preparing for advisory or consultancy roles in healthcare
Centres delivering the LICQual Level 3 Diploma in Clinical Research and Drug Development must meet high standards to ensure effective learning and successful outcomes for all learners. The following requirements should be in place:
- Qualified and Competent Staff
Centres must employ trainers, assessors, and internal quality assurers with relevant academic qualifications and professional experience in clinical research, drug development, and pharmaceutical sciences. - Access to Learning Resources
Centres must provide up-to-date study materials, textbooks, digital resources, and case studies covering clinical trial management, regulatory compliance, pharmacovigilance, and data analysis. - Practical Training and Applied Learning Facilities
Centres should provide facilities and tools to support practical exercises, simulations, project work, and applied clinical research scenarios. - Assessment and Quality Assurance Systems
Centres must implement robust assessment strategies and internal quality assurance processes to ensure reliability, consistency, and compliance with international standards. - Learner Support Services
Centres must offer academic guidance, mentorship, and access to Continuing Professional Development (CPD) resources to support learner engagement and success. - Technology and Digital Access
Centres should provide access to e-learning platforms, data management tools, and digital resources to facilitate flexible and blended learning. - Commitment to Compliance and Continuous Improvement
Staff must engage in ongoing CPD, maintain up-to-date knowledge of clinical research and drug development standards, and follow ethical and regulatory best practices in education and training.
By meeting these centre requirements, providers can deliver a high-quality, learner-focused programme that equips professionals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in clinical research, drug development, and pharmaceutical practice.
Assessment and Verification
All units within this qualification are subject to internal assessment by the approved centre and external verification by LICQual. The qualification follows a criterion-referenced assessment approach, ensuring that learners meet all specified learning outcomes.
To achieve a ‘Pass’ in any unit, learners must provide valid, sufficient, and authentic evidence demonstrating their attainment of all learning outcomes and compliance with the prescribed assessment criteria. The Assessor is responsible for evaluating the evidence and determining whether the learner has successfully met the required standards.
Assessors must maintain a clear and comprehensive audit trail, documenting the basis for their assessment decisions to ensure transparency, consistency, and compliance with quality assurance requirements.