“Prior to enrolling in the Clinical Trials Management Certificate program, I worked for ten years in practice management for a pediatric practice. Because there was some discussion that the practice might may be sold or closed, I felt a need to broaden my skill set in the event that I needed to make a career change. I knew I wanted to stay in the health care arena, so I enrolled in the certificate program.”

“I had some initial concerns about how I was going to find time to go back to school when I was working 40-plus hours in the office; also, it had been a long time since I was in school. What I experienced in the certificate program was that it was good to be back in academia!”

“The classes were very interesting and informative, not a typical lecture. Having professionals from the industry made each class different. Since they shared their expertise and “real” work experiences, one could really get a true sense of what a typical day might be like. I came away with a complete overview of the drug development process, and I had great personal satisfaction in completing the program.”

“When I interviewed, it was equally important to my future employer that I had gone back to school and was willing to learn new skills, and also that I was knowledgeable of the drug development process.”

“While I was preparing to take the Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) exam, basic concepts that were part of the certificate program surfaced for review. Some examples: phases of drug development, elements of consent, sponsor responsibilities, drug accountability, site visits, etc.”

Stephanie Givler is a research coordinator in the Clinical Trials Office at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Since completing the Clinical Trials Management Certificate, she has earned Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) certification.