ABOUT
A Clinical Trials Specialist works in both public and private research organisations, generally in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industries.
Our Clinical Trials Specialist degree apprenticeship (Level 6) works in collaboration with Clinical Professionals Ltd and aims to advance the skills of those in the field and attract new staff. It is suitable for people who work as part of a team focused on the delivery and execution of Phase I-IV clinical trials.
This apprenticeship is designed for individuals working in multidisciplinary teams within private or public clinical research organisations in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industries. Typically office-based, apprentices may also travel to various sites, such as hospitals, pharmacology units, and General Practitioners, to conduct monitoring activities.
Potential roles for apprentices include:
Clinical trials are centred around testing the safety and efficacy of new drugs and medical devices, and the programme is built around three core pillars:
Understanding health sciences, the building blocks of life, and genetic or environmental changes affecting human health.
Navigating the approval and auditing processes, participant protection, pharmacovigilance, and licensing.
Covering health economics, the business environment, and project management.
At Kent, we have an experienced team with a wealth of expertise in apprenticeships in health and science. We provide advice and support on all aspects of the process, from advertising the vacancy and funding, to workplace monitoring and end-point assessment requirements.
Our award-winning blended learning method, combining e-learning and block teaching, allows apprentices to thrive in the workplace while gaining a degree.
The curriculum is carefully planned and sequenced to ensure that learners acquire the Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviour defined by the Clinical Trials Specialist standards, published by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE).
The cost of the programme is £26,000 per apprentice and this can be paid for from the Apprenticeship levy or by government co-investment funding. There is also the cost of accommodation and travel for Summer Schools. This should be funded by the employer and is not payable from apprenticeship levy or government funding.
Upon successful completion, the apprentice will have achieved a BSc (Hons) Applied Science (Clinical Trials Specialist).
There is a 54-month delivery with 6 months for End-Point Assessment (EPA).
At least five GCSE passes (or equivalent), including English Language and Mathematics at Grade 4 or above. They are also required to have achieved at least two subjects at A Level (or equivalent), including Chemistry / Biology. Alternatively, applicants must have completed a Level 3 Laboratory Technical Apprenticeship in a relevant science discipline.
Applicants who do not meet these criteria but have relevant workplace experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
We offer start dates in September, October, January, and May for this programme. The cut-off for applications is normally one month prior to the start of the course.
Discover how Amy Kirkby transitioned from A levels to a Degree Apprenticeship.
As the first in her cohort to complete the End-point Assessment for the Clinical Trials Specialist apprenticeship, Amy shares her experiences and insights, highlighting the benefits and challenges of combining work with academic study.
If you have any questions about Kent programmes, need help selecting the right apprenticeship or require information on funding, timelines and more, please don't hesitate to reach out.
We're always here to help you navigate through the process.
