Summer Program in Clinical Effectiveness
The PCE is designed for individuals seeking advanced training in clinical and population-based research, including healthcare professionals, clinical investigators, scientists, and other professionals engaged in health-related research and evaluation. A joint program between Mass General Brigham, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health & Harvard Medical School.
About the Program in Clinical Effectiveness (PCE)
The PCE is a 6-week summer program designed for individuals seeking advanced training in clinical and population-based research, including healthcare professionals, clinical investigators, scientists, and other professionals engaged in health-related research and evaluation. The program provides essential training in Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, as well as other relevant areas for designing, implementing, and interpreting research. It can be completed as a standalone certificate program or as the start of a Master’s degree (Master of Public Health or Master of Science).
2027 Dates
Program Dates: July 7 – August 13, 2027
Degree Application Deadline: December 1, 2026
Non-degree Application Deadline : February 15, 2027
Virtual Information Sessions
Learn about the PCE and meet our Directors, Alumni and members of the Admissions Team.
Our Curriculum
PCE students are required to enroll in two integrated summer-long core courses in Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics. In addition, all students take two elective courses, one during each half of the summer. For more information about specific courses, please see our “Curriculum” section.
Our Students
Students can enroll in the PCE as non-degree students, or they can enroll at the beginning of a Master’s degree at the Chan School. Many non-degree students ultimately apply for a Master’s degree after completing the PCE; PCE graduates may transfer tuition and credits to specific degree programs within five years of completing the PCE. The Chan School offers two degree programs that are specifically geared toward PCE students. For details, see Degree Option.
Eligibility Criteria
Designed for individuals seeking advanced training in clinical and population-based research, including healthcare professionals, clinical investigators, scientists, and other professionals engaged in health-related research and evaluation. Applicants must hold a master’s, doctoral, or equivalent advanced degree in a relevant field. Examples of relevant degrees include, but are not limited to, MD, MBBS, MB Bch, DO, DDS, DMD, DNP, DVM, PharmD, PsyD, PhD, ScD, MS, MSN, MSW, and other advanced degrees. Ideally applicants have a mentored environment to apply skills learned.