What is Regulatory Science? Career Paths and Job Outlook
Published May 21, 2024
Innovation in medicine, pharmaceuticals, food, and other vital products offers promise and progress—but a product can’t reach the people who need it without the work of skilled professionals dedicated to compliance, consumer safety, and public health.
Whether they are putting their knowledge of regulatory affairs to work for organizations developing products or ensuring consumer safety as part of a regulatory agency, regulatory science experts are in high demand in a rapidly evolving technology and regulatory landscape.
Learn more about the fascinating field of regulatory science, including potential career paths and the value of a master’s degree.
What is Regulatory Science?
Regulatory science is a multidisciplinary field that ensures the safety, efficacy, and quality of products within regulated industries, including pharmaceuticals, medical devices, biotechnology, cosmetics, and food. These industries are governed by regulations, policies, and standards that apply from the product research and development stage to product marketing and use.
Curious about what you can do with a master’s degree in regulatory science? Read on to explore the diverse opportunities and profound impact this field has on shaping regulatory frameworks globally.
Key Aspects of Regulatory Science
Several key aspects drive the development, assessment, and oversight of products in regulatory science. Among them are:
- Clinical Development of Drugs: Ensures the safety and efficacy of pharmaceutical products through the design and execution of rigorous clinical trials.
- Food and Drug Law: Involves interpreting and navigating the complex legal frameworks governing product approval, marketing, and post-market surveillance.
- International Regulatory Affairs: Ensures that companies meet international regulatory standards, enabling global product distribution and promoting international collaboration in a complex marketplace.
- Translational Biotechnology: Involves the process of developing biotechnological advancements into safe and effective products.
Regulatory Science Jobs
Regulatory Science offers a diverse range of job opportunities. Entry-level jobs like regulatory affairs associate or clinical research coordinator are a great starting point. For those pursuing an advanced degree in regulatory science, here’s a sample of the types of relevant jobs and their salaries.
Compliance Manager
Salary: $92,851 mid-level; $215,636 senior-level
Job Growth: 0.73%
Compliance managers plan, direct, and coordinate an organization’s activities to ensure compliance with ethical and regulatory requirements.
Regulatory Affairs Manager
Salary: $92,851 mid-level; $215,636 senior-level
Job Growth: 0.73%
An organization’s regulatory affairs manager makes sure that its production activities comply with standards and regulations.
Regulatory Affairs Specialist
Salary: $71,597 mid-level; $118,967 senior-level
Job Growth: 0.68%
A regulatory affairs specialist manages internal regulatory processes and prepares materials for submission to regulatory agencies.
Clinical Research Coordinator
Salary: $144,435 mid-level; $266,557 senior-level
Job Growth: 0.59%
To ensure compliance with protocols and clinical objectives, the clinical research coordinator works to coordinate clinical research projects.
Quality Control Systems Manager
Salary: $106,401 mid-level; $180,401 senior-level
Job Growth: 0.34%
The quality control systems manager coordinates quality assurance programs and policies to control laboratory and production efforts.
Compensation, career, and projected growth data are supplied by Lightcast. Visit the Johns Hopkins MS in Regulatory Science program page to review career outlook data in more detail. Johns Hopkins University cannot guarantee employment placement, salary level, or career advancement.
Benefits of a Regulatory Science Degree Program
Regulatory science requires a deep understanding of the regulatory and product development processes and concerns. Though a master’s degree isn’t universally required for leadership roles within this field, it can enhance your professional prospects. Completing a regulatory science master’s degree program can allow you to:
Understand the Interplay Between Science, Business, and Law
Regulatory Science programs provide students with an in-depth knowledge of the interaction between science, business, and law. A regulatory professional needs this interdisciplinary knowledge as they navigate the complexities of regulatory science. Developing expertise prepares graduates to contribute effectively to regulatory compliance and strategic decision-making in a variety of organizations.
Ensure Customer Safety
Protecting customer safety is one of the core responsibilities of regulatory science. This field of study explores methods and frameworks needed for evaluating the safety, efficacy, and quality of products within regulated industries. Graduates are prepared to implement and monitor regulatory standards, ensuring that products reach the market in compliance with stringent safety protocols.
Gain Leadership Skills
Regulatory science degree programs not only give you technical knowledge but also develop leadership skills for effective decision-making and strategic planning. With this degree, graduates are equipped to lead regulatory teams, engage stakeholders, and navigate the evolving regulatory landscape. They’re ready to take positions as influential leaders within their organizations and the broader industry.
Earn Your Regulatory Science Master’s Degree
If you’re ready to do good in the world while enjoying a fulfilling career, JHU AAP’s MS in Regulatory Science program can help you succeed. Our renowned faculty offers a wealth of knowledge and experience, and the program’s flexible format is designed to meet the needs of working professionals.
The MS in Regulatory Science program is taught online, and students can engage part-time or full-time. Learn more by filling out our inquiry form today!