The challenge:
There is a very rapid transformation taking place in the pharmaceutical industry placing increasing demands on physicians during the research and development of new drugs.
Traditionally, medical specialists have been unable to access the necessary training for these ever increasing demands. With rare exceptions, medical universities around the world have not prepared physicians to work in the pharmaceutical industry. This is made more difficult by international differences in regulations, ethics and work practices.
The case for a Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Medicine aimed at physicians and non-medical professionals is therefore strong. In fact, an international survey of Pfizer Medical and Regulatory Managers revealed that over 80% of respondents showed an overwhelming desire for a Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Medicine that would enhance their career and their view of Pfizer as an employer.
The solution
Hibernia College and Pfizer Corporation have worked together with other educational bodies to develop an online Masters Programme that offers an innovative flexible learning solution for students through virtual classrooms.
The course offers students the chance to study at home, in the work place or on the road. Lessons and tutorials are available at the touch of a button using state of the art technology.
Students can choose from a variety of interactive self-paced study patterns and access an extensive online reference library. They also enjoy the flexibility and accessibility of online-recorded lectures in addition to live synchronous tutorials where interaction with fellow students and direct contact with course faculty occurs.
The feedback
Industry recognition through IFAPP guarantees that this course is relevant and valuable to employers. Participants on the programme support this with 95% claiming the course was highly relevant to their career development and had increased their understanding of the global pharmaceutical industry. 95% of the students also feel that the course had given them a professional advantage and competitive edge over their peers.
The business benefits to Pfizer are also evident. Employees see their enrolment on the programme as a real reward. And with 40 graduates completing the programme each year, the industry is benefiting from a new breed of highly qualified, business aware professionals.
For additional case studies visit the employer stories page at our Next Generation Learning partner Towards Maturity.