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Global Research Ethics, Certificate

See Program Details, Dates & Deadlines

Navigate Complex Ethical Issues in Global Health Research.

This 12-credit, six-course post-baccalaureate certificate program prepares professionals to critically analyze and address complex ethical challenges in research conducted across international settings, including those arising from the use of artificial intelligence and digital technologies. Participants examine how global standards govern research involving human participants and data. The curriculum emphasizes responsible conduct in international research, the ethical implications of globalization, the appropriate and ethical use of AI in research, and the central role of institutional review boards in safeguarding the rights and welfare of research participants. Graduates develop a strong foundation in ethical decision-making across diverse cultural, technological, and regulatory contexts, positioning them to serve as informed and credible advocates for responsible global research.

Details, Dates & Deadlines

Program Details

Class Format

Online, Asynchronous

Asynchronous learning means that learning takes place at all different times for students enrolled in a course.

Program Length

1-3 years

Credits to Complete

12 Credits

Cost/Credit Hour

In State: $769
Out of State: $994

 

  • Online application
  • $75 application fee
  • Official transcripts
  • 300–500-word essay
  • Proof of English language proficiency
  • CV or resume

Dates & Deadlines

Fall deadline: July 1
Spring deadline: December 1

 

Information Sessions

Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026 @ 12 p.m. EST
Tuesday, Mar. 31, 2026 @ 12 p.m. EST

Program Overview

In today’s interconnected world, research often spans borders, cultures, and regulatory systems. Understanding global research ethics is essential for professionals who want to lead with integrity and ensure that studies involving human participants uphold the highest standards of respect and responsibility. Ethical lapses can jeopardize careers, damage institutional reputations, and harm vulnerable populations. By mastering the principles of global research ethics, you position yourself as a trusted expert who can navigate complex international guidelines, protect human rights, and foster collaboration across diverse environments. This expertise not only strengthens your professional credibility but also opens doors to leadership roles in academia, healthcare, government, and industries where ethical oversight is critical to advancing innovation responsibly. 

Program Structure

The Global Research Ethics certificate is a 12-credit, six-course post-baccalaureate program delivered in a fully asynchronous, 100% online format. This structure is designed to provide flexibility for working professionals. The program does not require scheduled class meetings or fixed login times; students' complete coursework independently and submit assignments by established deadlines, with ongoing feedback from instructors and peers. 

Students in the program develop substantive expertise in global research ethics. The cohort typically includes practicing health and research professionals, as well as individuals seeking roles that require formal training in ethical and regulatory aspects of human subject's research in international contexts. 

  • All six courses will be offered at least once each year to enable you to complete the program within one year. 
  • Participants can start the program at the start of any term (Fall or Spring) 
  • Although most students complete the program within one year, you will be allowed up to three years to complete the program. 

The goal of this 12-credit, six course online certificate program is to provide individuals with an understanding of the ethical and regulatory aspects of human subjects research and to provide them with the skills needed to analyze ethical issues that arise in the conduct of research in domestic and international arenas. 

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to: 

  • Describe ethical and regulatory requirements for human subjects research. 
  • Apply ethical theories to research ethics analysis. 
  • Evaluate ethical issues in socio-behavioral and health research, including health inequities. 
  • Assess protections for vulnerable research populations. 
  • Analyze ethical challenges in international research and collaborations. 
  • Evaluate ethical and regulatory issues in global research contexts. 

Health care and health research are projected to experience sustained and rapid employment growth in the U.S. and globally.  According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in health-related occupations is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations between 2022 and 2032, with approximately 1.8 million job openings projected annually due to workforce growth and turnover. 

The Research Ethics Certificate Program prepares graduates for careers that support the ethical and regulatory oversight of research conducted in domestic and international settings.  Career pathways include: 

  • Institutional Review Board (IRB) administration, coordination, and review 
  • Human subjects protection and research compliance 
  • Global pharmaceutical and multinational clinical trials 
  • International health and biomedical research 
  • Research project management in global settings 
  • Research policy, governance, and ethics consultation 

Required: 

  • ETHC 629: Introduction to Ethical Theory (2 Credits) 
  • ETHC 665: Responsible Conduct of Research in International Affairs (1 Credit) 
  • ETHC 637: Introduction to Research Ethics (3 Credits) 
  • ETHC 638: Issues in International Research Ethics (3 Credits) 
  • ETHC 639: Institutional Review Boards (2 Credits) 
  • ETHC 640: Ethics of Globalization (1 Credit) 

   Course Descriptions

Admission Requirements

Upload your transcripts as a supplemental item to the online application. 

You must submit transcripts from each college/university attended, including coursework in progress at time of application.  Unofficial copies may be provided for the application review process.  
If you are offered admission, you must then provide official transcripts from each college/university from which a degree was earned.  The transcript must be provided to the Graduate School directly from the prior, degree-granting institution in a sealed envelope in order for that document to be considered official.  Alternatively, it may be provided to the Graduate School electronically by way of a secure, encrypted platform.  Each transcript should bear the signature of the registrar and the seal of the granting institution. 

Transcripts (US only) may be obtained from/provided by one of the following secure, encrypted transcript services:
https://www.parchment.com/ 
https://www.studentclearinghouse.org/solutions/ed-transcripts/
Send encrypted, electronic transcripts from your issuing institution to: gradapply@umaryland.edu 

If provided by mail, send official transcripts in sealed envelopes to:
ATTN: Admissions
University of Maryland School of Graduate Studies
620 West Lexington Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21201-1508

Essay
Your essay must be uploaded as a supplemental item to the online application.  The statement should be between 300- to 500-words and should address your academic and/or professional career goals and objectives in pursuing graduate study.   

CV or Resume
A Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume is required by most graduate programs.  Your CV or resume must be uploaded as part of the online application.

Demonstration of English Language Proficiency (International Applicants Only) 

The Graduate School accepts the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or the Duolingo English Test as a measure of English proficiency.  Minimum required scores are 80 on the Internet-based TOEFL, 7.0 on the IELTS, and 115 on the DET. Scores must be sent directly from ETS (for TOEFL, use institution code #5848), the IELTS agency, or Duolingo to the Graduate School. 

 Alternatively, applicants may request an exemption from TOEFL or IELTS requirements if they can demonstrate sufficient English language proficiency based on prior education or professional experience. 

 Application for in-state status classification 

Maryland residents only.  If you wish to be considered for in-state residency status for admission and tuition purposes, you must complete an Application for In-State Classification and submit it to the campus classification officer within the Office of the Registrar. 

 

If you have problems with or questions about the application process, please contact us at 410.706.7131 or gradapply@umaryland.edu

Contact Us

Admissions

Nina Jackson
Admissions Counselor 
nina.jackson@umaryland.edu 
410-706-6489

Academics

Henry J. Silverman, M.D., M.A.
Program Director
hsilverm@medicine.umaryland.edu 
410-328-4881

Meet Your Faculty

Our faculty are visionaries in health science research and research administration, committed to shaping the future of health care through discovery and innovation. With expertise in clinical research, regulatory compliance, and research ethics, they will empower you to think boldly, lead confidently, and create meaningful change. Through their guidance, you’ll gain the knowledge to drive impactful research initiatives and shape the future of academic research administration.

View Faculty Bios

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Next Steps

Your path to success starts here

620 W. Lexington St.
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 706-3100

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