Abstract: Objective This study aimed to understand the perception and mastery level of science in clinical research among doctoral candidates of professional degree majoring in clinical medicine. The findings will serve to inform the designing of the curriculum of science courses in clinical research. Methods A questionnaire was designed based on the course content outlined in the guidelines for core courses of professional degree graduate programs and relevant literature. In November 2021, a questionnaire survey was conducted among 116 doctoral candidates of professional degree majoring in clinical medicine enrolled in three hospitals affiliated with Jilin University in 2021. Statistical analysis was performed. T tests and χ² tests were used for comparison between groups. Results The highest importance rating was for formulating a scientific question and designing the research, with scores of (3.57±0.58) each. The highest mastery rating was given for the literature review, with a score of (2.38±0.73). The importance rating for data cleaning and quality assurance was (3.36±0.58), ranking ninth, but the mastery score was only (1.71±0.77), ranking last.Between individuals who had previously completed a course on clinical research methodology and those who hadnot, statistical difference was observed only in the comparison of informed consent [(3.18±0.56) vs. (3.39±0.53)](P=0.039), proficiency assessments revealed statistical differences in evidence based medicine [(2.40±0.51) vs. (1.99±0.60)], research ethics [(2.24±0.76) vs. (1.91±0.72)], research methodology [(2.06±0.61) vs. (1.78±0.61)],data management and statistical analysis [(2.06±0.70) vs. (1.75±0.60)], and clinical trial practices [(1.99±0.72) vs. (1.65±0.66)] (all P<0.05). Conclusions Doctoral candidates of professional degree highly value formulating a scientific question, designing research, assessment of scientific papers, data cleaning and quality assurance. Stratified teaching strategies should be employed to address the varying backgrounds of students in clinical research methodology.

Key words: Clinical medicine, Clinical research methodology, Doctoral graduates of professional degree, Importance, Mastery