Doctoral Degree in Clinical and Translational Science
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
The doctoral degree in clinical and translational science is ideal for students eager to bridge the gap between laboratory research and patient care, translating scientific discoveries into practical medical solutions. Graduates can pursue careers as clinical researchers, translational science experts, or professors, specializing in areas such as drug development, clinical trials, and personalized medicine.
Program Overview
The Department of Behavioral Science in the College of Medicine, in affiliation with the University of Kentucky Center for Clinical and Translational Science, offers a Ph.D. in Clinical and Translational Science (CTS). The academic discipline focuses on acceleration of the translation of basic science advances to tangible improvements in public health. This interdisciplinary program is designed to expand research career opportunities for exceptional professionals with terminal professional health care degrees (e.g., physicians, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, public health professionals).
Admission Requirements
Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Application Requirements
Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Program Specific Requirements
Admission to the program is generally limited to
1) applicants with terminal health professional degrees with appropriate domestic licensure to practice and
2) students in the MD/PhD Program.
Other students may apply to the program with consent of the Director of Graduate Studies.
Inquiries about the Ph.D. program should be directed to the Director of Graduate Studies, Department of Behavioral Science.
Additional information may also be obtained from the Department of Behavioral Science website.
Application Deadlines
Domestic Students
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Fall
- 05/01/2026
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Spring
- 10/01/2025
International Students
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Fall
- 04/15/2026
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Spring
- 09/15/2025
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
"After a few years in my successful career as an ICU doctor, I felt a growing desire to develop stronger research skills to match my clinical and educational expertise. The Clinical and Translational Science PhD program at UK was transformative toward that goal. It taught me how to design better studies, manage my research projects more effectively, and mentor trainees in meaningful research.
The coursework was rigorous yet practical—focused on protocol development, IRB submissions, and grant writing. It reshaped how I now approach both research and administrative work, making me more data-driven and efficient.
While I was initially concerned about balancing my clinical duties with the educational and research focuses of the program, it was quickly apparent that the faculty and design of the program quick were dedicated to helping me be successful in my all three areas (clinical, educational and research), helping me find that balance as part of my career arc. Built on a flexible schedule and abundant asynchronous learning options, the program was truly designed for busy clinical professionals like me.
This program and the degree I earned is one of the best decisions I’ve made. It elevated my research, broadened my professional network, and continues to impact my career in powerful ways."
Explore Funding Options
As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program!
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Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
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