Emmanuel College’s Graduate Programs in Research Administration a Means to Advancement
January 04, 2012
Those working in the dynamic world of research administration impact some of the largest global health and social initiatives in the country. Emmanuel College's Graduate Studies respond to the specific needs of these administrators with specialized graduate programs that address the competencies sought for sponsored research professionals at hospitals, colleges and universities. Emmanuel's graduate programs in research administration provide an opportunity to earn an academic credential and to expand professional networks. Below, Adjunct Professor Jeff Seo, a research administration attorney working in the Longwood Medical and Academic Area (LMA), discusses Emmanuel College's Graduate Certificate and Master's Degree programs in Research Administration.
How do Emmanuel College's Graduate Programs in Research Administration add value to the field?
"The programs legitimize and professionalize a field that has been steadily growing over the past few decades in conjunction with an increased investment in federally funded research. Research administrators play a vital role as stewards of these research funds, yet with the expansion of these ‘hot jobs' some people simply ‘fall into' these roles. Now, Emmanuel College's Graduate Programs in Research Administration provide a means by which individuals can seriously explore the transition into research administration or further advance their careers in research administration."
How does the research administration curriculum allow students to apply concepts practically?
"Students gain a fundamental understanding of the major accounting, finance, regulatory and compliance issues affecting federally funded grants and contracts. Through a rigorous curriculum, created by sponsored research experts from the neighboring LMA institutions and beyond, students acquire an appreciation for these issues and the ability to readily identify them from an investigator perspective, in addition to gaining an administrator's perspective in an academic and health care setting. In-class discussions, case studies and exercises are designed to elicit debate, helping students with the all-important skills of listening and communicating, as well as being able to identify their audience, whether it is an investigator, a colleague or classmate, and to tailor their message accordingly."
How are the research administration course requirements appropriate and relevant to students?
"These convenient, accelerated programs are especially designed to foster leaders in research administration. Coursework and assessments are tailored around current issues in research, including recent enforcement actions and new regulations, which students can immediately apply to their current positions in research administration."
What research administration networking opportunities are available for students?
"Students become very close with their classmates in their cohorts. In the face-to-face format, they immediately get to meet individuals from various for-profit and nonprofit research and health care institutions. For those enrolled in the online program, their cohort may include individuals from across the country. Our students represent employers such as Tufts Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Mass General Hospital and Harvard University. These connections are invaluable and likely to continue long after students complete their certificate or master's degree. Additionally, Emmanuel College instructors are leaders in their respective and diverse fields and can serve as a long-term networking source. I personally know that a few students have already advanced their careers simply by meeting others through the program."
What advice do you have for someone looking to transition into or advance within the field of research administration?
"There is no traditional route by which one becomes introduced to research administration. If you are eager to learn, I recommend exploring opportunities such as Emmanuel College's Graduate Programs in Research Administration. I am confident that the demand for good research and grant administrators will only continue to grow."
For more information on Emmanuel's Graduate Programs in Research Administration, please attend an in-person or online informational session. RSVP now »
