Introducing the Foundations in Medical Affairs Certificate Program
Here at MAPS, we understand the necessity of ongoing professional development, and the Foundations in Medical Affairs Certificate Program stands as a decisive step for individuals determined to enhance their skills and boost their impact within the field.
The Foundations program, is an essential component of the MAPS eCademy Learning Journey, specifically designed to elevate your understanding of critical concepts and practices in Medical Affairs.
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.
Best of all, the program is fully customizable! You choose the Domains and Competencies that align with your needs. Take the full program, focus on a specific Domain, or select individual 15-minute microsessions on your schedule. Your learning, your way.
MAPS eCademy Learning Journey – Where Foundations Aligns
Take a Glimpse at the Details
What is eCademy?
Foundations is a component of the MAPS eCademy Learning Journey, designed to provide you with a deeper understanding of essential concepts and practices within Medical Affairs. This program empowers you with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in this dynamic industry through a range of learning options, including introductory, foundational, and advanced courses.
Medical Affairs Primer (Introductory)
Are you new to Medical Affairs and looking for a convenient overview of the field?
As part of the MAPS eCademy Learning Journey, this comprehensive course is designed to help you unlock your potential in Medical Affairs. It covers essential concepts such as the roles and responsibilities within the field, key regulatory frameworks, and effective communication strategies with healthcare professionals. You will gain valuable insights from an industry expert, enhancing your understanding of Medical Affairs and providing you with the necessary knowledge and skills to start your career.
Revised and updated for 2025, the course is free, self-paced, and can be completed in one hour.
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.
- Fully Customizable – Take individual microsessions, select specific Domains, or complete the full program. You decide what’s right for your career development.
Who Should Enroll?
The Foundations in Medical Affairs Certificate Program is ideal for:
- Early-career professionals seeking a solid foundation in Medical Affairs
- Individuals transitioning into Medical Affairs from other functions (e.g., clinical, commercial, regulatory)
- Employers, executives, and MA leaders looking to onboard new Medical Affairs team members
- Medical Affairs professionals eager to enhance their expertise and stay at the forefront of the field by integrating the most current information and cutting-edge technologies
- Busy professionals who want to target specific Competency gaps with individual microsessions rather than committing to a full program upfront
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.
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 (you will not receive a Certificate of Completion after each 15-minute microsession).
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. Choose the Domains most relevant to your role, or explore them all:
Take a Glimpse at the Details
Pricing
| Full Foundations Program (42, 15-minute modules) | |
|---|---|
| Non-MAPS Member | $899 |
| MAPS Members (BEST VALUE!) | $199 By joining MAPS for one year, you’ll save more than $400 on the Foundations Program! |
| IPP MAPS Members Not sure if you’re an IPP Member? | Free |
| Complete Domain (Six, 15-minute Modules) | |
| Non-MAPS Members | $139 |
| MAPS Members | $69 |
| IPP MAPS Members | Free |
| Individual Competency (One, 15-minute microsession) | |
| Non-MAPS Members | $299 |
| MAPS Members | $19 |
| IPP MAPS Members | Free |
Enroll Today!
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. Take control of your professional development and advance at your own pace, all while benefiting from a rich and flexible learning experience.
Start with a single 15-minute microsession, explore a full Domain, or dive into the complete program, the choice is yours. Don’t miss this opportunity to empower yourself!
Explore the Foundations in Medical Affairs Certificate Program today!
How to Navigate our Learning Management System
Frequently Asked Questions
Program Overview
What is the Foundations in Medical Affairs Certificate Program?
The Foundations in Medical Affairs Certificate Program is an online, self-paced Medical Affairs training experience designed to provide early Medical Affairs professionals and those new to the field with the core knowledge and competencies essential for success in the field.
Does the Foundations program offer CEU credits?
The Foundations in Medical Affairs Certificate Program is not accredited by a third party, and therefore, no Continuing Education Credits are offered.
Can I take individual courses instead of the full program?
Yes! Foundations is fully customizable. You can purchase and complete individual 15-minute Competency microsessions, focus on specific Domains, or enroll in the complete program. This flexibility allows you to target the competencies most relevant to your role and schedule.
What needs does the Foundations program address within the Medical Affairs community?
The Foundations in Medical Affairs Certificate Program is designed to establish a global standard of foundational knowledge for professionals in Medical Affairs. As the field continues to evolve in scope, complexity, and strategic significance, there is a growing demand for comprehensive training. This Medical Affairs training provides professionals with the skills and understanding necessary for success in cross-functional, evidence-driven environments.
How was the Foundations program created, and what learning methodologies does it utilize?
The Foundations in Medical Affairs Certificate Program is founded on the MAPS Competency Framework, which includes 42 key Competencies across seven critical Domains. These Competencies are designed to address the complex challenges present in today’s Medical Affairs landscape. The program was developed in collaboration with over 60 industry experts from leading pharmaceutical, MedTech, and partner organizations around the world and is based on real-world experience and insights.
Curriculum & Learning Experience
What topics are covered in the program?
The program covers seven Domain courses that span the full scope of Medical Affairs competencies:
- Strategy
- Scientific and Technical Knowledge
- Business Knowledge
- Evidence Generation
- Customer Engagement and Scientific Communication
- Leadership and Management
- Medical Governance and Compliance
How long does the program take to complete?
The Foundations program is designed to be self-paced, enabling learners to move through the material at their own speed and revisit any modules as needed. On average, the full program can be completed in about ten hours. It consists of seven Domain courses, each containing six Competency Modules. Each module takes approximately 15 minutes to complete—perfect for fitting learning into a busy schedule.
Is there an exam or assessment?
Yes, there is a final knowledge check after each module to assess your understanding of the course material. You must complete the knowledge checks before being able to move on to the next Competency module.
Access & Enrollment
How do I enroll in the program?
You can enroll directly on the Foundations in Medical Affairs Certificate Program page. Click the “Enroll Now” button, which will redirect you to our Learning Management System, where you will be prompted to select a course, whether an individual Competency, a full Domain, or the complete program, and complete your registration and payment information.
Is the program open to all Medical Affairs professionals globally?
Yes. The program is available globally and accessible online 24/7. All content is in English.
Do I need to be a MAPS member to enroll?
The program is available to both MAPS members and non-members. However, MAPS members benefit from significantly discounted pricing. Please see the breakdown below:
Full Foundations Program (42, 15-minute modules)
- Non-MAPS Member: $899
- MAPS Members (BEST VALUE!): $199
By joining MAPS for one year, you’ll save more than $400 on the Foundations Program!
- IPP MAPS Members: Free
Complete Domain (Six, 15-minute modules)
- Non-MAPS Members: $139
- MAPS Members: $69
- IPP MAPS Members: Free
Individual Competency (One, 15-minute microsession)
- Non-MAPS Members: $29
- MAPS Members: $19
- IPP MAPS Members: Free
What payment methods are accepted?
We accept major credit/debit cards via the online registration system.
I have never used a Learning Management System before. How do I navigate the program after enrolling?
We have created a detailed tutorial video that demonstrates the Learning Management System and how to navigate it effectively for your first use.
Technical & Support Questions
What platform is the program hosted on?
The Medical Affairs training is hosted on a user-friendly, mobile-responsive Learning Management System that allows you to track progress, complete interactive modules, and access materials anytime.
What are the technical requirements?
No special software is required, but you will need:
- A reliable internet connection
- A computer or mobile device
- A modern browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge)
Is my personal data and completion metrics private?
We prioritize the privacy and security of our users’ data. We want to assure you that your personal information will remain confidential and will not be sold or shared with any third parties. Your trust is important to us, and we are committed to protecting your data while you focus on your learning experience.
Who can I contact if I experience issues accessing the course?
Please contact Support on the Learning Management System for technical assistance or course access issues.
Our Volunteers Made Foundations Possible
Our dedicated team of Volunteers has been instrumental in shaping the Foundations in Medical Affairs Certification Program. Their unwavering commitment and expertise have ensured that this program provides participants with the vital knowledge and skills required to thrive in the field of Medical Affairs. We are profoundly grateful for their time and talents in bringing this transformative program to life.
April Adams, Rinat Ariely, Yi Arnold, Clare Baker, Isabelle Bocher-Pianka, Leona Blustein, Morgan Bowling, Deborah Braccia, Denise E. Chou, Kieran Davey, Adeola Davis, Evelyn DeSantis, Ivan Desviat, Jonathan Dixon, Jose Duarte, Brian Falcone, Jillian Gillespie, Anthony Greco, Ruth Haile-Meskale, Amanda Henkel, Andy Houck, Emily Howman, Marieke Jonkman, Stephen Kagan, Michael Kahn, Shaji Kalathil, David Kelaher, Gustavo Kesselring, Zohra Khan, Lisa Kholsa, Joseph Kohles, Gaston Kuperman, Bagrat Lalayan, Jenna Laybourne, Damian Largier, Maureen Lloyd, Pamela Lonzer, Gary Male, Pam Mason, Elena Mills, Diana Morgenstern, William Mwiti, Arron Mungul, Judith Nelissen, Ruth Nicholson, Tony Page, Fran Paradiso-Hardy, Bhavik Pandya, Kirtida Pandya, Eddie Power, Ralph Rewers, Matthew John Rice, Maryline Sabina, Jessica Santos, Roslyn F. Schneider, Tyler Sossong, Peter Stonier, Prasun Subedi, Melissa Toler, Joshua Vecht, Urvashi Vashee, Joris van Vugt, Stephanie Walsh, Angela Williams, Leah Williams.
