Understanding the Benefits of the Foundations in Medical Affairs Certificate Program

Introducing the Foundations in Medical Affairs Certificate Program, an essential component of the MAPS eCademy Learning Journey, specifically designed to elevate your understanding of critical concepts and practices in Medical Affairs.   

Here at MAPS, we understand the necessity of ongoing professional development, and the Foundations program stands as a decisive step for individuals determined to enhance their skills and boost their impact within the field.   

Developed in collaboration with over 60 industry experts from leading pharmaceutical and MedTech organizations globally, this program is grounded in real-world experience and insights, encompassing 42 key competencies across seven critical domains that address the multifaceted challenges faced in today’s Medical Affairs landscape. 

Our goal with the Foundations program is to empower professionals to successfully navigate the dynamic landscape of Medical Affairs through professional development at every level—individual, team, department, and organization—ensuring that the Medical Affairs industry is prepared for the future and poised to lead it.

MAPS eCademy Learning Journey – Where Foundations Aligns

ecadem\y journey

Take a Glimpse at the Details

Dive into the world of Medical Affairs with our comprehensive introductory program. This course provides the key competencies necessary for those new to the field, and the insights gained will not only enhance your understanding but also set the stage toward a successful career.

Take your knowledge to the next level with our Foundations program, which explores all the Domains that are part of the MAPS’ Medical Affairs Competency Framework. Key topics such as regulatory compliance, medical communications, and stakeholder engagement will provide you with the expertise needed to make significant contributions to your teams and organizations.

Launching in spring 2026, the CMAP program is your gateway to greater proficiency in Medical Affairs practices. This transformative program is a comprehensive, intermediate/advanced level training spanning MAPS’ Medical Affairs Competency Framework. Delivered by executive leaders in Medical Affairs, this program will help elevate your expertise, expand your leadership potential, and develop a strategic understanding of Medical Affairs that will distinguish you in the field.

Why the Foundations in Medical Affairs Certificate Program is essential?

Foundations delivers comprehensive, essential knowledge across all MAPS Medical Affairs Competency Framework domains. Participants will engage with a structured curriculum that covers the competencies necessary for success in Medical Affairs. Each domain is crafted to enable participants to understand the theories, best practices, and real-world applications that define effective medical communication and strategy.

The MAPS Medical Affairs Competency Framework is crucial for professional growth and success in Medical Affairs. The Foundations program offers more than just essential learning, it provides a structured and impactful development experience designed to:

  • Strengthen your ability to communicate scientific data effectively.  
  • Enhance decision making through evidence-based strategies.  
  • Deepen your understanding of regulatory, compliance, and business landscapes.  
  • Improve collaboration across functions and engagement with stakeholders.  

By the end of the program, participants will have a solid understanding of essential competencies, along with the confidence and knowledge needed to contribute more effectively to their teams.

What is the format of the Foundations in Medical Affairs Certificate Program?

  • Seven Distinct Domains – Spans the full scope of Medical Affairs competencies.    
  • 42 Courses – Each lasting approximately 15 minutes for convenient, flexible learning.    
  • Expert Moderators – Each domain is guided by an industry leader, offering unique insights and perspectives.    
  • Convenient Learning – Hosted on a dedicated Learning Management System (MAPS eCademy) for seamless access, the program is entirely online and self-paced, allowing professionals to advance on their own schedule.    
  • Interactive and Engaging – No skipping ahead; learners must actively participate to progress.    

Who Should Enroll?

The Foundations in Medical Affairs Certificate Program is ideal for:

  • Mid-Career and Seasoned Professionals: This program offers an opportunity to refine skills, foster cross-functional collaboration, and develop a comprehensive strategic vision of the Medical Affairs landscape.  
  • Early-Career Professionals: Those looking to build on their foundational experience and enhance their expertise in Medical Affairs.

Whether you are at the beginning of your Medical Affairs journey or transitioning from another function, this program provides essential knowledge and practical applications necessary for thriving in your career.   

Enrollment Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites for enrolling in the Foundations in Medical Affairs Certificate Program. This open accessibility ensures that anyone with some background knowledge in Medical Affairs can participate and benefit from the program, making it suitable for various experience levels.

Is there an assessment at the end of each competency?

Participants will take multiple-choice questions after completing each competency within a domain to guarantee an understanding of the concepts covered. If a question is answered incorrectly, participants must retake it until they achieve the correct answer, ensuring a solid understanding of each competency.

Upon completion of all six competency courses in a domain, participants will receive a Certificate of Completion for that domain. It is important to note that there is no overarching “Foundations in Medical Affairs” certificate, as the focus is on proficiency in specific competencies. 

The Seven Domains of the MAPS Medical Affairs Competency Framework

Below, you will discover the seven essential domains and the powerful skills you will accrue as you complete all included competencies.

Take a Glimpse at the Details

The Strategy Domain is crucial for articulating the vision, value, and impact of Medical Affairs. This area of expertise reinforces essential capabilities, including the development of robust medical strategic and launch plans, the identification of actionable insights, and the execution of initiatives with operational excellence. By mastering these skills, you’ll be equipped to drive impactful and transformative results in the industry.

The Scientific and Technical Knowledge Domain provides essential insights into drug development, clinical trial design, and the key statistical and epidemiological concepts relevant to both pre-approval and post-approval phases. It highlights the strategic role of the Target Product Profile (TPP) and underscores the importance of regulatory agencies in ensuring drug safety and quality. By developing these competencies, you will be better prepared to analyze data effectively, interpret scientific literature, and support the safe and informed use of pharmaceuticals.

The Business Knowledge Domain focuses on understanding the financial and strategic frameworks that drive the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. Professionals will learn to analyze key financial goals, evaluate healthcare systems, and understand reimbursement landscapes. By developing these skills, you will build a solid foundation in business principles, allowing you to navigate complex market dynamics with confidence and strategic insight.

The Evidence Generation Domain is vital for ensuring that actions, decisions, and policies are based on credible evidence, leading to effective, efficient, and equitable healthcare outcomes. Key competencies include integrated evidence planning, identifying data gaps, and utilizing real-world evidence alongside Health Economics and Outcomes Research. Prioritizing innovative evidence generation techniques and health equity is essential for advancing accessible healthcare for all.

The Customer Engagement and Scientific Communication Domain is essential for developing effective communication strategies, including scientific publications, medical education, digital engagement, and interactions with external stakeholders. By promoting meaningful scientific exchanges with healthcare professionals, key opinion leaders, and patients, Medical Affairs professionals ensure that accurate, evidence-based information reaches the appropriate audiences. By mastering these skills, you will help improve patient outcomes through informed decision-making and enhanced scientific dialogue.

The Leadership and Management Domain plays a vital role in impacting healthcare. It focuses on mastering diverse leadership models and effective communication within matrix teams, collaborating with key stakeholders like healthcare professionals, caregivers, and advocacy groups. By nurturing talent, creating succession plans, and navigating challenges with agility, Medical Affairs professionals can significantly drive healthcare advancement and achieve meaningful results.

The Medical Governance and Compliance Domain is pivotal for effectively interpreting and applying regulations and industry codes of practice. These competencies encompass ethical considerations, risk mitigation strategies, and robust control frameworks. By prioritizing these elements, we strengthen our partnerships with healthcare professionals, patients, and other stakeholders to actively pursue innovative, patient-centered business opportunities in a dynamic and rapidly evolving environment.

Click Here to View the MAPS Competency Framework

Next Steps:

Now that you have gained a thorough understanding of the Foundations in Medical Affairs Certificate Program, the exciting next step in your journey is now yours to embrace.

Stay tuned to our weekly newsletter for enrollment information when the course goes live on March 23, 2025.

Take control of your professional development and advance at your own pace, all while benefiting from a rich and flexible learning experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to empower yourself!

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