Bridging the clinical research talent gap: ASU and Virb launch four high-impact programs

A collage of diverse learners

In the rapidly-growing healthcare field, there are an estimated 710,000 healthcare job vacancies in the U.S. alone. With a projected 19.4% of the workforce expected to retire in the next five years, the need for industry-aligned training has never been more urgent. Patients awaiting life-saving treatments depend on a strong and well-trained workforce to bring new medical innovations to market.

That’s why ASU has partnered with Virb, Inc., a leader in healthcare education, to launch four new programs. These programs prepare professionals for critical roles in clinical trials and healthcare sales by offering hands-on training and essential tools to succeed. This collaboration represents a shared commitment to nurturing the next generation of clinical research professionals and healthcare leaders.

“ASU is committed to shaping the future of healthcare by equipping the workforce with the skills and experience they need to make a real difference,” said Meredyth Hendricks, Associate Vice President of Career and Professional Learning at ASU Learning Enterprise. “Through our partnership with Virb, learners gain practical, hands-on training that prepares them to lead in clinical research and help advance healthcare innovation.”

Virb: a pioneer in clinical research talent development

Virb’s mission is to provide accessible and scalable training for entry-level professionals and those looking to change careers, leveraging a platform that trains, sources and deploys talent globally. Through personalized training with simulations and real-world scenarios, this approach prepares learners to meet industry demands and ensures they are job-ready.

“We’re delivering more than just learning; we’re equipping talent to confidently step into high-demand roles,” says Tim Bray, Chief Sourcing and Training Officer at Virb. “Our AI-driven training provides hands-on experience from clinical research and healthcare sales professionals and learners will master the skills to excel from day one.”

By connecting graduates with well-paying, purpose-driven careers, Virb helps simplify the path from education to employment—accelerating the delivery of life-saving treatments to patients worldwide. Graduates of these programs gain lifetime access to training materials, job placement resources, and the opportunity to connect with industry leaders. These programs aim not just to prepare students for jobs but to launch their careers in healthcare.

Learn more about each of the new programs below.

Launching Your Clinical Research Coordinator Journey

Become a driving force in medical innovation by helping bring new treatments to life. This 6-week online program prepares learners to manage the essential coordination tasks that make clinical trials successful.

  • 6 weeks, online
  • $4,750
  • Classes: Foundations of Clinical Research, Enhancing CRC Expertise, Advanced Compliance & Quality Management

Get started today

Launching Your Clinical Research Associate Journey

Join the ranks of Clinical Research Associates who monitor critical clinical trials. Salaries in this field have increased by 15% in the last five years, offering strong earning potential​ and a high career trajectory.

  • 12 weeks, online
  • $6,850
  • Classes: Learn everything you need to monitor a clinical trial including studies in Cardio, Dermatitis, Neurology & Oncology.

Get started today

Launching Your Career in Clinical Research

Gain a broad understanding of clinical research roles, from research assistants to central monitors. With the clinical research market poised to reach $70 billion by 2027, this program opens doors to high-demand careers.

  • 15 hours, self-paced
  • $1,349
  • Classes: Overview of the Drug Development Process 

Get started today

Launching Your Healthcare Sales Career 

Pursuing a career in healthcare sales offers you a chance to make a meaningful impact on patient care by working with innovative medical products and technologies and driving their adoption to improve health outcomes. This program will provide you with an introduction to the healthcare market and equips you with the crucial sales strategies you will need to enhance your effectiveness and confidence in healthcare sales. You’ll develop valuable skills in communication, negotiation, and relationship building, which are transferable across a variety of career options. 

  • 3-week online program
  • $1,750
  • Classes include U.S. Healthcare Delivery and the Sales Role, Effective Sales Planning, Practical Sales Skills, Sales Process

Get started today