❗The content presented here is sourced directly from Futurelearn platform. For comprehensive course details, including enrollment information, simply click on the 'Go to class' link on our website.

Updated in [May 25th, 2023]

This online course provides an introduction to research ethics. It covers topics such as why research ethics matters, recruiting participants for research and getting their consent, considerations for recruiting vulnerable participants, potential risks of harm to the researcher or participants, storing personal data, and archival and internet research. Participants will gain an understanding of the importance of research ethics and the ethical considerations that should be taken into account when conducting research.

[Applications]
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to research ethics and the implications of conducting research. After completing this course, participants should be able to identify potential ethical issues in their research and develop strategies to address them. They should also be able to identify vulnerable participants and understand the importance of obtaining informed consent. Participants should also be able to identify potential risks to themselves and their participants, and develop strategies to mitigate them. Finally, participants should be able to understand the importance of storing personal data securely and the implications of archival and internet research.

[Career Paths]
1. Research Ethics Consultant: Research ethics consultants advise organizations on ethical research practices and help them develop policies and procedures to ensure compliance with ethical standards. They also provide guidance on ethical issues related to data collection, analysis, and reporting. As research becomes increasingly complex and data-driven, the demand for research ethics consultants is expected to grow.

2. Research Compliance Officer: Research compliance officers are responsible for ensuring that research projects comply with applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards. They review research protocols, provide guidance on ethical issues, and monitor research activities to ensure compliance. As research becomes more complex and regulated, the demand for research compliance officers is expected to increase.

3. Research Data Analyst: Research data analysts are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data from research projects. They use statistical methods to analyze data and develop insights that can be used to inform decision-making. As research becomes increasingly data-driven, the demand for research data analysts is expected to grow.

4. Research Project Manager: Research project managers are responsible for managing research projects from start to finish. They develop project plans, coordinate research activities, and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. As research becomes more complex and regulated, the demand for research project managers is expected to increase.

[Education Paths]
1. Bachelor of Science in Research Ethics: This degree program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the ethical principles and practices related to research. Students learn about the ethical considerations of conducting research, the importance of informed consent, and the implications of research on vulnerable populations. Additionally, students gain an understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern research. This degree is becoming increasingly popular as research ethics become more important in the field of science.

2. Master of Science in Research Ethics: This degree program builds on the foundational knowledge gained in a Bachelor of Science in Research Ethics. Students learn more advanced topics such as ethical considerations in data analysis, the ethical implications of research on vulnerable populations, and the ethical implications of research on the environment. Additionally, students gain an understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern research. This degree is becoming increasingly popular as research ethics become more important in the field of science.

3. Doctor of Philosophy in Research Ethics: This degree program provides students with an in-depth understanding of the ethical principles and practices related to research. Students learn about the ethical considerations of conducting research, the importance of informed consent, and the implications of research on vulnerable populations. Additionally, students gain an understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern research. This degree is becoming increasingly popular as research ethics become more important in the field of science.

4. Master of Laws in Research Ethics: This degree program provides students with an in-depth understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern research. Students learn about the ethical considerations of conducting research, the importance of informed consent, and the implications of research on vulnerable populations. Additionally, students gain an understanding of the ethical principles and practices related to research. This degree is becoming increasingly popular as research ethics become more important in the field of science.