Should I Get a Master's Degree or Certificate in Regulatory Affairs and Clinical Research?

Master’s Degree vs. Certificate in Regulatory Affairs

As you start a career in regulatory affairs or clinical research, you'll likely come across two distinct educational paths: obtaining a master's degree or earning a graduate certificate. Both options provide graduate-level education that can expand your career opportunities. However, there are key differences that you should consider before choosing one.

Master’s Degree

Earning a master’s degree in regulatory affairs and clinical management is one of the most efficient ways to improve your career prospects for several reasons. Graduate-level programs are typically designed to prepare professionals for certification. Therefore, they offer comprehensive coverage of the core competencies necessary to thrive in this field.

Some of these competencies include:

• Pharmaceuticals testing and regulation
• Compliant medical device design
• Product quality assurance

Networking and job placement opportunities are another crucial benefit of a traditional degree program. Reputable programs, like Regis College’s Regulatory and Clinical Research Management (RCRM) program, give you access to industry experts with real-world experience, making it easier to build relationships and gain valuable mentorships. Studying alongside your peers also allows you to learn from others to help you identify what industry you are most interested in.

Graduate programs also put greater emphasis on building leadership and strategic thinking skills to equip professionals for higher-level roles. As a result, employers view graduate degrees as highly credible and often prefer them even for entry- and mid-level roles.

According to the RAPS 2020 Global Compensation report:

• Nearly 100 percent of regulatory professionals have degrees
• Close to 64 percent have advanced degrees
• Approximately 43 percent earned the RAPS Regulatory Affairs Certification (RAC)

As a result, obtaining a master’s degree can make you a more attractive candidate, no matter what aspect of regulatory affairs or clinical research you decide to specialize in. Across all industries, a master’s degree increases earning potential by nearly 16 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Graduate Certificate

While a master's degree offers a comprehensive education, a graduate certificate in regulatory affairs and clinical research provides a concise, focused, and time-efficient alternative.

The curriculum can be introductory or highly concentrated, allowing you to refine your skills in specific areas. Since graduate certificate programs are typically shorter than master's programs, you can acquire specialized knowledge in a shorter time frame and leverage it for professional advancement.

Similar to a master’s program, pursuing a certificate can open you up to a community with other regulatory professionals. This gives you the opportunity to learn from instructors and peers and network to find job openings that are a good fit.

Earning a certificate is also a less costly investment that does not require graduate school entrance exams to qualify. For these reasons, career changers often view certificate programs as a useful tool to break into the field quickly and explore their professional interests further before making a bigger commitment.

It is important to note that a certificate will not elevate your career to the next level like a master’s degree can. However, many institutions, like Regis College, design certificate programs to lead into master’s programs upon completion. So, instead of viewing a certificate as a substitute for the in-depth knowledge and skills associated with a master’s degree, consider it a stepping stone in a larger educational progression.

What Is a Regulatory Affairs and Clinical Research Certification?

While a master’s degree or a certificate are the most common options regulatory affairs professionals pursue, some consider earning a certification.

A regulatory affairs certification is very different from a certificate. While the certificate provides specialized instruction and an academic credential, a certification is simply a passing grade on an examination designed to validate expertise in the field. It is important to note that regulatory professionals can be eligible for certification whether they earn a graduate degree or certificate.

One common certification that bridges the gap between certificate and master's programs is the RAPS Regulatory Affairs Certification (RAC). Earning this certification is not just an unnecessary additive to your qualifications. Instead, it lends credibility to your skills and assures employers of your proficiency in regulatory science. According to RAPS industry data, a regulatory affairs and clinical research certification increases salary potential by nine percent.

Three Factors to Considering When Choosing Between a Certificate and Master’s Program

Choosing between a certificate and a master’s in regulatory affairs and clinical research hinges on several personal and professional factors. Here is an overview of these considerations.

1. Timeline

For instance, how quickly do you want to complete your education? Depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time, a master’s degree in regulatory affairs and clinical research typically takes about two years, while a certificate is usually one year.

If you need to enter the job market as soon as possible, a graduate certificate might be the better choice due to its shorter duration. However, if you have the time and resources to pursue a master's degree, it can offer you a more comprehensive education with fewer limits on career mobility.

2. Professional Goals

Are you looking to simply improve your marketability or increase the number of jobs you’re qualified to apply for? Completing a master’s program opens the door to jobs requiring a graduate degree, including more lucrative leadership roles. However, a certificate can demonstrate expertise in a particular discipline, especially if you’re new to the field or applying for roles in sub-industries that differ from your past work history.

If your goal is to enhance your qualifications and make yourself stand out to employers, both options can provide a competitive advantage and show commitment to continuous learning.

3. Current Industry Status

Perhaps the most important factor to consider is your current professional and industry status. What opportunities to gain experience are available to you? Do you need certain skills to stay relevant in your current role?

If you're already working in regulatory affairs or clinical research and want to upskill, a specialized graduate certificate can be a convenient way to hone a specific skill set. If you have few opportunities to network or shadow other professionals, a master's degree may be the better option for expanding your knowledge.

Advancing Your Education in Regulatory Affairs or Clinical Research

Regardless of the educational path you choose, you can expect an exciting and rewarding career in regulatory affairs or clinical research.

One program that can help you achieve this is Regis College's Regulatory and Clinical Research Management (RCRM) program. This specialized program covers essential topics such as regulatory strategy, clinical trial management, and quality assurance, ensuring you are well-prepared to navigate the complex regulatory landscape.

Depending on your goals, timeline, and current qualifications, both a graduate certificate and master’s degree can offer distinct advantages. And by supplementing your education with industry-recognized certifications, you can position yourself as a valuable asset with unlimited growth potential.

To learn more about the MS in regulatory affairs at Regis College, reach out to an admission counselor to find out how this program can help you build core competencies, network, and gain invaluable experience in the regulatory affairs industry.