In recent years, tremendous advances in molecular biology and diagnostic technologies have provided new insights into cellular physiology and the mechanisms of human disease. The translation of these advances into a better understanding of human pathophysiology requires a unique set of skills. The skills and knowledge required for translational research and clinical investigation differ from the techniques of outcomes research and epidemiology taught through schools of public health.

Vanderbilt has been a leader in the training of clinical investigators for a number of years and is uniquely qualified to offer a graduate degree in clinical investigation. In 1996 the Clinical Research Task Force recommended the development of a Master's program in clinical investigation which would build upon Vanderbilt's legacy for training clinical investigators. Since that time a core curriculum has been developed. The Master of Science in Clinical Investigation (MSCI) Program was approved by the Executive Faculty of Vanderbilt University School of Medicine in 1999.