Research Project, Project in Curriculum Development or Thesis

Individuals pursuing the Master of Science in Medical Education are required to complete a formal thesis or substantive research project that applies towards the 30-credit requirement for the degree. Three (3) credits will be awarded for successful completion of this component of the curriculum.

This project must meet the following requirements: (1) be primarily independent work by the trainee, (2) be reported to the respective sponsoring faculty in written form, and (3) form the basis for a comprehensive review of competence by a committee of at least three training faculty recommended by the major advisor and approved by the Program Director.

There are four standard mechanisms that are considered appropriate for the substantive project:

  1. Curriculum development project: A formal project in curriculum development including planning or completion of a needs assessment, formation of curricular goals and specific measurable objectives, educational strategies, proposed implementation of the curriculum and evaluation and feedback;
  2. Peer review publication: One submitted first-authored paper related to the trainee's research project in medical education or curriculum development may be proposed as evidence of independent work at the discretion of the Director;
  3. A major grant application (R01, K award or equivalent): Junior faculty candidates may submit a completed R01 or equivalent research proposal for which they are the principal investigator as evidence of their ability to plan and conduct independent research in the area of medical education; or
  4. A standard thesis option: Trainees may elect to complete a master's thesis in a chosen topic relevant to medical education. A thesis produced under this option must conform to all applicable university policies regarding theses, and be defended before a committee recommended by the major advisor and approved by the Program Director.