University of St. Thomas’ Master in Clinical Translation Management (MCTM) students have a wealth of resources at their ready to prepare themselves as employees and entrepreneurs in the ever-changing medical technologies innovation realm.

One such resource is the Quality Science Education (QSE) courses offered through Pathway for Patient Health. This free, (non-academic credit) QSE micro-credential from Pathway for Patient Health, compliments the MCTM degree and can be earned while in the MCTM program. Upon successful completion of the QSE program, students receive the certification from Pathway for Patient Health that can be designated after their name as “CQSP” - Certified Quality Science Professional.

UST joined the cohort of universities from around the world to offer the QSE courses for free to students. Students around the world are being taught for the first time what scientific studies are needed to prove that medications and medical devices (like hip implants, heart stents, etc.) are safe and effective. Did you ever wonder how the expiration date is determined? How did failures occur that resulted in product recalls? How does a company determine how a product could fail, then design the product and manufacturing process differently so that it doesn’t? If you like detective work, then you will like this program…and you will enjoy a fulfilling career in the life science industries!

According to Dr. Marla Phillips, CEO and President of Pathway for Patient Health, “We must arm students with the critical thinking skills needed to make scientifically sound quality-based decisions in a world steeped with rapid technological innovation. The pharmaceutical, medical device, biotech, animal health and consumer goods industries work to promote and protect patient health around the world. At the heart of our ability to affect patient lives is the necessity to develop and manufacture products that consistently meet the intended quality in a way that is supported by scientific research and data.”

Ann Hinkle, the Director of University Relations and Enrollment with Pathway for Patient Health, notes “the curriculum is not a training program; instead, it is a rigorous, intensive plan of study grounded in science that yields career-ready professionals who are adept in the field of quality science. Graduates of the QSE program will enter their desired profession with the skills necessary to increase the assurance of product quality, safety and efficacy.”

UST MCTM student Melissa Galicia Will Earn the Micro-Credential

MCTM student Melissa Galicia is taking advantage of the opportunity to finish the graduate program and obtain the Quality Science Education Certification from Pathway for Patient Health. The three, industry-specific (non-academic-credit) courses are offered as free, on-demand classes, while the additional requirements are completed through the student’s school. Students like her also have access to industry volunteers to support their success.

“When I first heard about this program, I was intrigued with the mentorship opportunities provided to the QSE students, where each student is paired with an industry member who has a background based on the student’s interests.,” Galicia said. “I was also impressed with their mission to help students and industry leaders become more knowledgeable about quality science within the life science industry, and how it greatly impacts individuals globally.”

“With the resources provided to me through both the MCTM program and Pathway to Patient Health, I will be more than prepared to pursue whatever career I decide,” Galicia said. “My biggest passion is helping others, and I look forward to the challenges that may arise.”

Galicia wants to pursue a career in regulatory affairs or clinical management.

To learn more about the MCTM program at UST, click here.