American Statistical Association · Certificate Program

Clinical Trials
Certificate Program

A rigorous, cohort-based program for statisticians and data scientists ready to deepen their expertise in the design, analysis, and conduct of clinical trials.

18 Instructional modules
20 Cohort seats
3 hrs Per module
1 Capstone project

Built for practitioners who want to lead in clinical research

Whether you're early in your career or pivoting deeper into trials methodology, this program meets you where you are and takes you further.

Cohort learning model

You'll move through the program alongside a carefully selected group of 20 peers, building professional relationships that extend beyond the certificate itself.

Applied from the start

Every module pairs recorded instruction with a live interactive session. You're not just absorbing content — you're working with it alongside faculty and peers.

Culminates in a capstone

The program closes with a practicum and capstone project presented to the cohort and program faculty — a tangible demonstration of your expertise.

ASA-credentialed

Earn a certificate from the American Statistical Association.

How the program is structured

The eighteen modules, a practicum, and a capstone are designed as a complete arc from foundation to applied expertise.

Phase 1

18 Modules

Core curriculum delivered in two-part sessions over the program period, with planned breaks for reflection and deeper engagement.

Phase 2

Practicum

Applied engagement with clinical trials methods in a supervised professional or simulated context.

Sept 2026 cohort start
Part 1 of each module

90-minute recorded session

A pre-recorded instructional video available on demand. Watch on your own schedule, pause, and revisit as needed. Recorded sessions remain accessible throughout the entire program including during scheduled breaks.

Some modules include embedded assessments
Part 2 of each module

90-minute live interactive session

A synchronous session with faculty and the full cohort. Facilitated discussion, case application, and Q&A build on the recorded material and connect it to real-world practice.

Some sessions include live assessments

Designed to fit professional life

Sessions run on a weekly cadence with planned breaks giving you time to absorb material, manage your workload, and show up ready.

Modules 1–6

Foundations

Foundations of clinical research: trial design across early, middle, and late phases; writing objectives; selecting endpoints; and core principles of randomization.
Modules 7–12

Intermediate methods

Statistical methodology in depth: power and sample size, analysis populations, analysis principles, interim analyses and monitoring, adaptive and Bayesian designs, and biomarkers in precision medicine.
Modules 13–18

Advanced topics

Advanced and applied topics: specialized trial designs, dissemination and reporting, protocol development and execution, regulation and oversight, data capture and management, and emerging trends shaping the future of clinical trials.
Final phase

Practicum + Capstone

Applied project with faculty guidance, closing with a capstone presentation to the cohort.
Flexible access: Recorded sessions are available throughout the program.

This program is for you if…

…you're ready to go deeper. Whether you're building your foundation or formalizing expertise you've gained on the job, this program is designed for statisticians and data scientists who want to do more rigorous, impactful work in clinical research.

Early career

Statisticians & biostatisticians building a foundation

You have a degree in statistics, biostatistics, or a quantitative field and want structured, expert-led preparation for clinical trials work.

Mid-career

Professionals deepening or redirecting their expertise

You work in industry, biotech, academia, or government and want to formalize your knowledge or transition more fully into trials methodology.

Academic & research

Researchers engaged in clinical study design

You collaborate on or lead clinical research and want deeper statistical grounding to strengthen your contributions to study teams.

Data science

Data scientists moving into regulated research

You bring strong quantitative skills and want to understand the specific frameworks, standards, and methods that govern clinical trials.

Apply to the inaugural cohort

The first cohort will include 20 participants selected through a competitive review process. We evaluate applications holistically.

CV or résumé

Your academic and professional background. PDF or Word document.

Short-answer questions

Two prompts (approximately 200–300 words each) that give the selection committee a clear picture of your background and motivation.

  1. What draws you to clinical trials specifically, and how does this certificate connect to your professional goals?
  2. Is there anything about your background or circumstances you'd like the selection committee to know?

Ready to apply?

The inaugural cohort begins September 2026. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and closes once all available seats are filled.

20 Cohort seats available
Competitive selection
ASA Members: $3,500 Non-members: $4,500
Start your application →

Questions? Contact donnal@amstat.org