UConn’s Medical Writing Certificate Program: It’s Just "Write"

The University of Connecticut (UConn) School of Pharmacy offers a unique medical writing certificate program. Established in 2019, it is celebrating a milestone: 100 participants have enrolled. It is the only known practice-based program. Setting itself apart from other offerings, the UConn program includes 1:1 mentorship with faculty.

Individualized manuscript feedback is invaluable to improving writing skills. Furthermore, at the program’s completion, learners have a portfolio of writing demonstrating their expertise. Why is this a benefit? Paying clients usually require writing samples before they hire medical writers. The $1999 registration fee seems like a considerable cost, but program graduates have the potential to recoup it after landing 1 or 2 (paying) manuscripts. The program also provides 30.5 hours of Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education–approved credits. Upon completion, participants receive a practice-based Certificate of Achievement.

Take Your Time

The activities are self-paced; the final project was more time-consuming than all the activities combined. Fortunately, participants and faculty members establish deadlines collaboratively for draft and revision submissions. Enrollees include individuals considering career changes and those from academia hoping to increase their publications. I encourage registration for anyone who likes to write or needs to strengthen their writing skills, even if you are busy.

Having publications listed on my curriculum vitae has and continues to set me apart from other job candidates. This includes positions beyond medical writing. Publications prove writers can research and simplify complex information, and such impressive skills facilitate job training and demonstrate communication proficiencies.

It's Not Just Writing

The Connecticut Pharmacists Association recently called for speakers to present at its Women in Pharmacy Summit. They selected my submission for its unique title and relevant content. I used concepts learned from the certificate program to ensure my submission was top-notch. Specifically, the “Powerful Presentations” activity enabled me to construct a high-quality slide deck and presentation.

My favorite activity in the program was “Working With Clients.” Meeting expectations is difficult when you enter a new field and the standards are unfamiliar, but this activity set me up for success by describing clients’ typical expectations.

It's an Ongoing Process

I learned so much from this program—more than I expected. What I found most challenging about the mentorship was the vulnerability I felt by showcasing my writing and having it receive many edits and feedback. My biggest challenge was correcting passive sentences and writing effortlessly in an active voice. Several years later, my mentors’ referrals still generate freelance opportunities for me. The mentorship strengthened my writing and supplied me with support even after program completion.