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Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Medical Writer

Medical writing is an esteemed profession. Every day, medical writers are detailing, documenting, and sharing news and research that is improving health outcomes and saving lives. Their roles and opportunities are always evolving, whether they’re crafting peer-reviewed articles reporting on clinical trials, marketing cutting-edge devices, educating health care professionals or even the general public about new treatments, or writing grant proposals to fund innovative research.

This guide provides information and resources on what medical writers do, the companies they work for, and what you need to know to embark on this growing, rewarding—and lucrative—career.

What Is Medical Writing?

Medical writing involves the development and production of print or digital documents that deal specifically with medicine or health care. The profession of medical writing calls for knowledge in both writing and science, combining a writer’s creative talent with the rigor and detail of research and the scientific process. 

With the constant advancement and innovation in medicine and health care, the need to communicate about research findings, products, devices, and services is growing. Medical writers are increasingly in demand to convey new information to health care professionals as well as the general public.

Depending on their position and the scope of their duties, medical writers are involved in communicating scientific and clinical data to many audiences, from doctors and nurses to insurance adjusters and patients. They work in a variety of formats, including traditional print publications to electronic publications, multimedia presentations, videos, podcasts, website content, and social media sites.

Medical writers often work with doctors, scientists, and other subject matter experts (SMEs) to create documents that describe research results, product use, and other medical information. They also ensure that documents comply with regulatory, publication, or other guidelines in terms of content, format, and structure. 

Medical writers are also key players in developing applications for mobile devices that are used in multiple ways, such as

• Disease management
• Continuing education and training
• Medical reference and information-gathering
• Practice management and monitoring

Medical communicators may be writers, editors , health care journalists, supervisors, project managers, media relations specialists, educators, and more. At their core, they are exceptionally skilled at gathering, organizing, interpreting, evaluating, and presenting often complex information to health care professionals, a public audience, or industry professionals such as hospital purchasers, manufacturers and users of medical devices, pharmaceutical sales representatives, members of the insurance industry, and public policy officials. For each of these audiences, the language, documents, and deliverables are distinct.  For beginning to mid-level medical communicators who want to enhance and fine-tune their medical editing skills, AMWA provides a Certificate in Medical Editing .  

What Are Examples of Medical Communication Jobs?

Medical communication positions in writing and editing vary greatly across industries, companies, organizations, and other entities. 

In addition to the title of medical writer, medical communicators may be known as scientific writers, technical writers, regulatory writers , promotional writers, health care marketers, health care journalists, or communication specialists. Both medical writers and medical editors may work for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, medical communication agencies, medical education companies, health care professionals associations, academic institutions, medical and health care book publishers, trade publications, and more. 

What Do Medical Writers Write?

The expertise and contributions of medical writers and editors can be found throughout the medical community. Examples of their work include

• Abstracts for medical journals and medical conferences
• Advertisements for pharmaceuticals, devices, and other products
• Advisory board summaries
• Continuing medical education materials
• Decision aids for patients
• Grant proposals
• Health care policy documents
• Health education materials
• Magazine and newspaper articles
• Medical and health care books
• Medical and scientific journal articles
• Marketing materials
• Poster presentations for medical conferences
• Regulatory documents, including FDA submissions
• Sales training
• Slide presentations for medical conferences
• White papers

Who Hires Medical Writers?

Right now, there is tremendous growth in the medical industry. Pharmaceutical companies are developing drugs more quickly, and new medical devices and diagnostic tools are being released every day. With this comes the increased need to meet regulatory and insurance requirements and to relay medical and consumer information. All of this results in greater opportunities for medical writers and communicators. 

Medical writers can find positions with a variety of employers, reaching a multitude of audiences with different communication needs and styles. These may include

• Associations and professional health care societies
• Authors or investigators
• Biotechnology companies
• Clinical or contract research organizations   (CROs)
• Communications, marketing, or advertising agencies
• Government agencies
• Health care organizations or providers
• Medical book publishers
• Medical device companies
• Medical education companies
• Medical schools or universities
• News outlets   for health/medical news
• Peer-reviewed medical journals
• Pharmaceutical companies
• Trade journals   for health care professionals

AMWA members can access a current list of available openings on   AMWA Jobs Online . (Not a member?   Join here. )

How Much Do Medical Writers Make?

Medical writer salaries vary from city to city and region to region. Compensation also depends on the writer’s experience, the type of employer, and the type of work.

Sites such as Salary.com , PayScale.com , and Glassdoor.com indicate that a salary range for a junior-level or beginning medical writer is $52,000 to $80,000 annually and a salary range for a junior-level or beginning medical editor as $57,000 to $75,000 annually.

The AMWA Medical Communication Compensation Report provides an in-depth analysis of medical communication salary data by experience level, degree, industry categories, and much more.

Join our professional community of skilled medical communicators.

What Does It Take to Be a Medical Writer?

While medical writers come from all educational and professional backgrounds, they do share some traits.  Medical writers have an interest and flair for both science and writing. They also have a clear understanding of medical concepts and ideas and are able to present data and its interpretation in a way the target audience will understand.

Although it’s not required, many medical communicators hold an advanced degree. Some have a medical or science degree (eg, PhD, PharmD, MD) or experience in academic settings or as bench scientists, pharmacists, physicians, or other health care professionals. Others have an MFA or a PhD in communications or English.

Certificates and certifications are additional credentials that demonstrate your knowledge and proficiency in the medical communication field. Many are described in this guide.

How Do I Become a Medical Writer?

Medical communication can be a flexible, rewarding, and well-paying career in a growing field of both full-time and freelance opportunities. To get started, follow these steps. 

1. Determine a focus

Based on the wide range of companies and organizations that employ medical communicators, the field is generally divided into different writing settings and specializations, each requiring specific technical writing skills or knowledge of medical terminology and practices. In this step, it’s important to focus on an area you’re most interested in and that best matches your skill set.

• Continuing education for healthcare professionals
• Health communication
• Marketing/Advertising/PR
• Patient education
• Publications for professional audiences (non-peer reviewed)
• Regulatory writing
• Sales training (biotech or pharma industry)
• Scientific publications (peer-reviewed journals)

2. Assess your knowledge and skills

Medical communicators come to the field from a variety of different disciplines. Those with a medical or science background commonly need refreshers in writing and editing mechanics, whereas medical terminology and statistics are typically more difficult for those with a writing or communications background. No matter what your training has been, you should take an inventory of your essential skills .

Basic Grammar and Usage

• Parts of speech and grammatical principles form the foundation of writing in every discipline. Can you identify a dangling modifier or notice the lack of a pronoun referent?

Sentence Structure

• Even if you know grammar, you may need a refresher on achieving emphasis and organizing your sentences for clarity. Do you know the difference between an independent and a dependent clause? Do you understand parallel structure?

Punctuation

• A single misplaced comma can create a very different meaning, which can have serious implications in medical writing. Are all your commas in the right places? What about your semicolons?

Medical Terminology

• It’s not enough to know medical terms. You gain more insight into medical vocabulary by learning about the prefixes, combining forms, and suffixes that make up all your favorite medical words. Do you know the rules for eponyms? Do you know the difference between an acronym and an initialism?

Professional Ethics

• Every profession has a code of ethics, and medical communication is no different. Make sure you know the steps to ethical decision-making and the ethical principles to uphold.
• If you’re working with medical research, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of statistics. Can you describe the difference between mean, median, and mode? Can you define a hazard ratio?

Tables and Graphs

• Tables and graphs are essential tools for communicating complex information. Do you know what kind of graph to use for continuous data? Are your table column headings doing their job?

If you need to fill gaps in your knowledge, AMWA offers a variety of educational activities , including the AMWA Essential Skills Certificate Program , which addresses all of these topics.

3. Explore resources

As you explore the medical writing profession, the next step is to become aware of the resources available to you. AMWA offers many opportunities to support new medical communicators and a wealth of professional development resources to help throughout an evolving career. The following are some examples.

• AMWA Online Learning activity: A Career in Medical Communication: Steps to Success
• AMWA Career Services : Jobs Online ,  Freelance Directory
• Live   webinars
• AMWA Essential Skills Certificate Program
• Comprehensive Guide to Medical Editing
• Medical Editing Checklist
• How to Identify Predatory Publishers eBook

Other resources include a number of recommended books on medical writing , listed in the "Medical Writer Resources" section below.

Although there are plenty of opportunities in medical communication, it is important to recognize that it can be a difficult field to break into.   Networking   is a crucial part of gaining success as a medical writer.

Throughout your career, but especially at the start, it’s important to connect with other medical communicators in your local area as well as   across the country .

Networking   is an excellent way to connect with other medical communicators. Not only does it provide informal learning opportunities, but some experts say that 70% to 80% of people found their current position through networking.   Others say it’s closer to 85%. Whether you are using LinkedIn ,   Facebook ,   Twitter , community boards, or conference attendance , it is important to seek out ways to stay connected.

Take the leap!

New and experienced medical writers are finding ways to advance in a solid career and contribute to positive health outcomes through the power of communication. With a greater understanding of the role of the medical communicator and the available opportunities, people with a passion for writing and science can excel in this interesting and ever-changing field.

Medical Writer Resources

Books about medical writing.

• The Accidental Medical Writer . Brian G. Bass and Cynthia L. Kryder. Booklocker.com, Inc, 2008.
• Essentials of Writing Biomedical Research Papers . 2nd ed. Mimi Zeiger. McGraw-Hill, 2000.
• Health Literacy from A to Z: Practical Ways to Communicate Your Health Message . Helen Osborne. Jones and Bartlett Publishers, 2005.
• How to Write and Publish a Scientific Paper, 8th ed .   Barbara Gastel and Robert A. Day. Greenwood, 2016.
• Targeted Regulatory Writing Techniques: Clinical Documents for Drugs and Biologics . Linda Fossati Wood and MaryAnn Foote, eds. Birkhauser, 2009.

Style Guides

• AMA Manual of Style
• Associated Press Stylebook 
• Chicago Manual of Style
• American Psychological Association Style
• Scientific Style and Format: The CSE Manual for Authors, Editors, and Publishers

Publication Ethics

• Code of Conduct and Best Practice Guidelines for Journal Editors   (Committee on Publication Ethics)
• White Paper on Publication Ethics  (Council of Science Editors)
• Recommendations for the Conduct, Reporting, Editing, and Publication of Scholarly Work in Medical Journals   (International Committee of Medical Journal Editors)
• Good Publication Practice Guidelines - GPP3   (International Society for Medical Publication Professionals)

Professional Associations & Societies

• American Medical Writers Association
• Association of Health Care Journalists
• Board of Editors in the Life Sciences
• Council of Science Editors
• Drug Information Association
• Editorial Freelancers Association
• International Society for Medical Publication Professionals
• National Association of Science Writers
• Regulatory Affairs Professionals Society
• Society for Health Communication
• Society for Technical Communication

Medical Communication Programs – Universities, Colleges, Associations

This list is not comprehensive and was last updated on 11/23/2022.

Graduate Programs in Medical/Health Communication/Writing/Journalism

• Master of Science in Health Communication (Online)
• Master of Science: Science & Medical Journalism
• Carnegie Mellon University  - Master of Arts: Professional Writing
• Johns Hopkins University  - Master of Arts: Science-Medical Writing
• New York University  - Master of Arts / Master of Science: Health and Environmental Reporting
• Texas A&M University  - Master of Science: Science and Technology Journalism
• Towson University  - Master of Science: Professional Writing
• University of Houston-Downtown  - Master of Science: Technical Communication
• University of Illinois  - Master of Science: Health Communication
• University of Minnesota  - Professional Master of Arts: Health Communication
• University of North Carolina  - Master of Arts: Medical Science & Journalism

Undergraduate Programs in Medical/Health Communication/Writing/Journalism

• Juniata College  - Degree in Health Communication
• Missouri State University  - Bachelor of Arts / Bachelor of Science: Science/Professional Writing
• University of Minnesota   - Bachelor of Arts: Technical Writing and Communication 

Tracks or Minors in Medical Communication

• Ferris State University  - Bachelor of Science: Journalism and Technical Communication
• University of Tennessee at Knoxville  - Science Communication Program  

Degree Programs in Regulatory Affairs

• George Washington University -  Dual Degree: BSHS/MSHS in Clinical Operations & Healthcare Management
• University of Washington School of Pharmacy -  Master of Science in Biomedical Regulatory Affair s  

University Certificate Programs

• Harvard Medical School - Effective Writing for Health Care
• UC San Diego Extension - Medical Writing Certificate
• University of Chicago Graham School of General Studies -  Medical Writing and Editing Certificate

AMWA acknowledges the contributions of Lori Alexander, MPTW, ELS, MWC, Lori De Milto, MJ, and Cyndy Kryder, MS, MWC in the development of this AMWA resource. 

WANT A PORTABLE VERSION OF THIS ARTICLE?  DOWNLOAD IT HERE.

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How much does a Medical Writer make in the United States?

• Medical Writer Salary The average Medical Writer salary in the United States is $84,564 as of April 24, 2024. The range for our most popular Medical Writer positions (listed below) typically falls between $43,145 and $125,982. Keep in mind that salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including position, education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
• Medical Writer I Is responsible for researching, writing, and editing clinical/statistical reports and study protocols: summarizes data from clinical studies for submission to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). May require a bachelor's/master's degree and 0-2 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Works under immediate supervision. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. View Medical Writer I Salary Categories : Pharmaceuticals , Biotechnology
• Medical Writer II Researches, composes and edits clinical/statistical reports and study protocols. Summarizes data from clinical studies for submission to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Conducts comprehensive literature searches, documents clinical study results and product use, and ensures that all deliverables are in accordance with regulations, standards, and guidelines. May require a bachelor's/master's degree. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Typically requires 2 to 4 years of related experience. Gains exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. Occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. View Medical Writer II Salary Alternate Job Titles :Clinical Study Medical Writer, Intermediate Medical Writer, Medical Writing Specialist, Medical Writer II Categories : Pharmaceuticals , Biotechnology
• Medical Writer III Researches, composes and edits clinical/statistical reports and study protocols. Summarizes data from clinical studies for submission to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Conducts comprehensive literature searches, documents clinical study results and product use, and ensures that all deliverables are in accordance with regulations, standards, and guidelines. May require a bachelor's/master's degree. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Typically requires 4 to 7 years of related experience. Contributes to moderately complex aspects of a project. Work is generally independent and collaborative in nature. View Medical Writer III Salary Alternate Job Titles :Clinical Study Senior Medical Writer, Medical Writing Senior Specialist, Senior Medical Writer, Medical Writer III Categories : Pharmaceuticals , Biotechnology
• Medical Billing Specialist Reviews and verifies medical bills and invoices with accounts receivable ledger and patients. Ensures record accuracy, follows up, and makes necessary revisions. Processes changes in information system to support accurate and efficient billing process and financial close. Follows proper medical and insurance claim processes. Typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. Typically requires 1-3 years of related experience. View Medical Billing Specialist Salary Alternate Job Titles :Medical Billing /Receivables Specialist, Medical Billing Review Specialist, Medical Billing Specialist Categories : Healthcare - Administrative , Financial Services , Insurance
• Technical Writer II Creates and publishes technical documentations and manuals. Collects and interprets technical data or information and coordinates layout for publication. Typically requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. Gains exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. Occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. Typically requires 2 to 4 years of related experience. View Technical Writer II Salary Alternate Job Titles :Intermediate Technical Writer, Technical Product Documentation Writer II, Technical Writer II Categories : Printing and Publishing , Biotechnology , IT - All , IT - Computers, Hardware , IT - Computers, Software , Pharmaceuticals , Public Relations , Science and Research , Training
• Technical Writer III Creates and publishes technical documentations and manuals. Collects and interprets technical data or information and coordinates layout for publication. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. Contributes to moderately complex aspects of a project. Work is generally independent and collaborative in nature. Typically requires 4 to 7 years of related experience. View Technical Writer III Salary Alternate Job Titles :Senior Technical Writer, Technical Product Documentation Writer III, Technical Writer III Categories : Printing and Publishing , Biotechnology , IT - All , IT - Computers, Hardware , IT - Computers, Software , Pharmaceuticals , Public Relations , Science and Research , Training
• Technical Writer IV Creates and publishes technical documentations and manuals. Collects and interprets technical data or information and coordinates layout for publication. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. A specialist on complex technical and business matters. Work is highly independent. May assume a team lead role for the work group. Typically requires 7+ years of related experience. View Technical Writer IV Salary Alternate Job Titles :Technical Product Documentation Writer IV, Technical Writer - Project Lead Specialist, Technical Writer IV Categories : Printing and Publishing , Biotechnology , IT - All , IT - Computers, Hardware , IT - Computers, Software , Pharmaceuticals , Public Relations , Science and Research , Training
• Technical Writer I Creates and publishes technical documentations and manuals. Collects and interprets technical data or information and coordinates layout for publication. Typically requires a bachelor's degree or its equivalent. Typically reports to a manager. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Work is closely managed. Typically requires 0-2 years of related experience. View Technical Writer I Salary Alternate Job Titles :Entry Level Technical Writer, Entry Technical Writer, Junior Technical Writer, Technical Product Documentation Writer I, Technical Writer I Categories : Printing and Publishing , Biotechnology , Entry Level , IT - All , IT - Computers, Hardware , IT - Computers, Software , Pharmaceuticals , Public Relations , Science and Research , Training
• Digital Content Writer III Produces written content for various online platforms, including website articles, blog posts, social media posts, email newsletters, and more. Researches, validates, and develops clear and compelling content that adheres to required branding and style guidelines. Works closely with the marketing and creative teams to brainstorm ideas, develop content strategies, and ensure consistency in tone, style, and messaging across all channels. Incorporates search engine optimization best practices in all materials produced. Ensures that all grammar, spelling, flow, tone, and style are appropriate for the writing project. Utilizes content management tools to prepare materials. Requires a bachelor's degree in english, communication, journalism. Typically reports to a manager. Work is generally independent and collaborative in nature. Contributes to moderately complex aspects of a project. Typically requires 4-7 years of related experience. View Digital Content Writer III Salary Alternate Job Titles :Digital Marketing Senior Copywriter, Digital Senior Editor/Writer, On-Line Senior Copywriter, Web CopyWriter - Senior, Digital Content Writer III Categories : Internet and New Media , IT - All
• Database Report Writer II Assists one or more business teams in understanding and utilizing data. Uses software and scripting, typically including SQL, to generate metrics and reports and synthesize them into actionable recommendations. May be responsible for management reporting, KPIs, or data QA. Provides support to research teams or management by collecting and analyzing data and reporting results based on the needs of end users. Collaborates with various function teams such as marketing, research, and IT to achieve business results. Typically requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager or head of a unit/department. Occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. Gaining exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. Typically requires 2-4 years of related experience. View Database Report Writer II Salary Alternate Job Titles :Data Reporting and Query Analyst, Database Reporting Analyst, Database Report Writer II Categories : IT - All , Consulting Services

Medical Writer salary

Average medical writer salary, how much does a medical writer make.

The average medical writer salary in the United States is $93,842. Medical writer salaries typically range between $63,000 and $137,000 yearly. The average hourly rate for medical writers is $45.12 per hour. Medical writer salary is impacted by location, education, and experience. Medical writers earn the highest average salary in Virginia.

Where can a Medical Writer earn more?

• Medical Writer

The average entry-level salary for a medical writer is $63,664. A mid-career medical writer earns $93,842 a year on average. A senior level medical writer with 7-12 years of experience enjoys an average annual salary of $139,281. According to Vicky Johnson Bós, Associate Professor of English at Tusculum University, "Having practical experience in that field through a summer job, internship, or access to expertise is very helpful to increase earning potential, as well as getting a Master's Degree or even a PhD, which can affect salary potential. However, you may have to take a 'starting' job at less of a good salary to get practical experience to make the leap to a better paying job."

Medical Writer salary estimates from across the web

Average medical writer salary by state.

The highest-paying states for medical writers are Virginia, Arizona, and California. The lowest average medical writer salary states are Oklahoma, Nebraska, and Iowa.

• County View

Highest paying states for medical writers

Highest paying cities for medical writers.

The highest-paying cities for medical writers are Washington, DC, Richmond, VA, and San Francisco, CA.

Medical Writers are the most in-demand in these five cities:

• Washington, DC
• Richmond, VA
• San Francisco, CA
• Phoenix, AZ

Medical Writer salary details

A medical writer's salary ranges from $63,000 a year at the 10th percentile to $137,000 at the 90th percentile.

What is a medical writer's salary?

Highest paying medical writer jobs.

The highest paying types of medical writers are medical science liaison, senior editor, and managing editor.

Top companies hiring medical writers now:

• Eli Lilly and Company Jobs (8)
• Bristol-Myers Squibb Jobs (10)
• Merck Jobs (9)
• Edwards Lifesciences Jobs (35)
• Abbott Jobs (9)

Which companies pay medical writers the most?

Medical writer salaries at Biogen and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center are the highest-paying according to our most recent salary estimates. In addition, the average medical writer salary at companies like Analysis Group and Vertex Pharmaceuticals are highly competitive.

Wage gap by gender, race and education

Medical writer salary trends.

The average medical writer salary has risen by $12,621 over the last ten years. In 2014, the average medical writer earned $81,221 annually, but today, they earn $93,842 a year. That works out to a 7% change in pay for medical writers over the last decade.

Compare medical writer salaries for cities or states with the national average over time.

Average medical writer salary over time

Compare medical writer salaries for individual cities or states with the national average.

Medical Writer salary by year

Recently added medical writer salaries, medical writer salary faqs, what state pays medical writers the most, how do i know if i'm being paid fairly as a medical writer, do medical writers get paid well, how much do medical freelance writers make.

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What does a medical writer do and how can you become one?

Do you have a way with words? Do you enjoy expressing yourself through writing- and do you also have a deep-seated interest in the medical industry?

Then a career as a medical writer might be right for you. Responsible for working closely with doctors, scientists, and other people in the medical and pharmaceutical profession, a medical writer curates a vast array of content that can cover patient information sheets, medical reports, clinical study reports and even regulatory submissions. The sector is incredibly diverse, demand for skilled writers is high, and the pay is generous; for those who want to get involved in marketing, coding or law, there are spaces for you.

The UK pharmaceutical market is now worth £21 billion and is projected to continue expanding at a very strong rate. So there’s never been a better time for you to make that career change and become a medical writer. But what do you need to know about starting off and finding your first job?

Decide what to aim for

There are several career paths you can pursue as a Medical Writer; the trick is finding the one that suits you best. Here are three avenues you can take:

Regulatory Medical Writing

Working in this domain, you’ll be writing documents that are part of the development process for medical drugs or devices. This could take the form of clinical trial study reports, marketing applications or regulatory documents regarding the release of the drug. You’ll need a good knowledge of the law - particularly medical regulations - but if it’s a fast-paced environment that you’re looking for with the chance to work on the latest pharmaceutical developments , this will be an extremely rewarding career path.

Medical Communications Writing

There is a little overlap here but the key difference is that medical communications writing is normally conducted by an agency that hires out its services to pharmaceutical companies. No mater whether you're working from home or office-based, you’ll be doing everything from writing legal and regulatory documentation to tackling marketing and advertisements for the latest drugs. A large part of this job will involve information dissemination - writing documents that inform doctors and patients about the latest drug or device and how to use it.

Translation

A smaller field within medical writing, but no less important, is translation. Put your language skills to use as a highly sought-after medical writer translating clinical and technical documents into different languages. Medical translators are particularly important for clinical trials where they’ll translate the medical text for patients, clinicians and representatives of regulatory organisations. The majority of leading medical research is written in English but with a considerable amount of text published in French, German, Portuguese and Spanish there’s a real demand for medical writers who are fluent in these languages and want to help increase the global information pool .

Get qualified

To become a medical writer, you need to have a comprehensive knowledge of your chosen field, especially given that you’re going to be writing authoritative content on the subject. For some roles, you’ll most likely be expected to achieve a PhD or Master’s in Life Sciences, Biology or Chemistry, though it’s possible to progress in medical writing by completing a Master’s in Technical Writing . It’s also possible, but more difficult, to get editorial roles with less industry experience and fewer credentials, such as a degree in English Literature. It’s hard to break into the industry without the right experience, so focus on that, too: build up a portfolio of writing jobs or take an unpaid medical writing job so you can prove yourself as a writer or an editor. Whether that’s writing a column about the health industry or copy-writing for different companies, having experience will get you noticed.

There are plenty of communities within medical writing that will help you forge new connections and learn more about the industry. For instance, the  Council of Science Editors  comprises a group of medical writers whose website holds information on everything from training courses to relevant publications. The  European Medical Writers Association  does much the same, supporting and training medical communications professionals in Europe. Both are great sources of information and if you want to connect with others in the industry you can network via the Health Writer Hub . Take it a step further and find events – both in-person and virtual - and reach out to people. There are plenty of medical writing groups on LinkedIn, too, if you want to swap ideas with others in the industry.

Immerse yourself

Do your research. Find out everything you can about the field, so you can prepare yourself for a career within the sector. Get to grips with PubMed, which is a key source of information for medical writers, and research the medical and pharmaceutical industry to get a better idea of the state of the industry and the new products that are coming onto the market. Read high-level medical publications and magazine ones; start familiarising yourself with the style and the language used in different articles and documents. The more you know, the better you’ll be prepared to pursue a career in medical writing- or editing- and to hit the ground running. 

Go further with IQVIA

Looking to take your first steps into the world of medical writing? We can help. Our years of expertise in medical recruitment means that we’re perfectly placed to connect you with your first job. Browse our  medical communications jobs and start your application. If you're looking for more insight from IQVIA, find out how technology is changing the modern workforce .

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A quick note to say thank you for your time this morning discussing my future career options. As you know I was feeling very conflicted about the right decision. Discussing the role with you gave me chance to clarify what is important to me.

Since joining IQVIA I have had unrivalled support and development from my manager to enable me to aspire to move into secondary care. I feel like my career is strongly supported by my manager in order to maximise my potential.

Once again I cannot thank you enough for not only approaching me with this opportunity but also for all the support you’ve given me along the way!

IQVIA has been behind my development to become a MSL. The contracts that I have worked on have allowed me to push clinical projects with a recent opportunity to manage a pilot scheme integrating e-detailing into an established field based team. The result was an increase in sales.

Just following on from the amazing news I got yesterday I wanted to say a really special thank you for all the help and support you have provided throughout the entire recruitment process.

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Department of English College of Liberal Arts

Medical and Healthcare Writing Graduate Certificate (Online)

As the healthcare industry expands in scope and complexity, the demand for skilled medical and healthcare communicators is growing. Specialized writing and communication skills are critical to success in healthcare-related fields. From writing grant proposals to regulatory documents to public health information, medical and healthcare writers are crucial to the organizational success of healthcare organizations across the industry.

Purdue University’s Medical and Healthcare Writing graduate certificate will teach you how to increase your medical and healthcare writing skills. By completing three fully online courses, you will elevate and refine your communication expertise and gain marketable skills while becoming a more effective healthcare writer and communicator.

Download program flier here .

What Do Medical Writers Do?

Medical Writers communicate the science of medicine and pharmaceuticals to a variety of stakeholders; including foundations, government agencies, the general public and more. Medical writers work with physicians, researchers, marketing teams, healthcare executives, pharmacology staff, and public health workers to produce clear and accessible content. Whether tailoring easy-to-understand general health information or preparing statistical reports for regulators, clear and concise writing is key to success.

Medical writers compile information for a variety of scenarios including:

• Healthcare grants and research applications
• Documentation during drug development, evaluation and review
• Publishing clinical research in journals
• Creating regulatory documents
• Reporting clinical trial data and findings
• Creating educational medical information for patients, families and the general public

Online Medical and Healthcare Writing Courses

Medical and healthcare writing (eng 60311).

Course Description: In this course, you will learn how to write for the healthcare workplace and succeed as a medical writer. The curriculum will help you master various genres, writing styles and rhetorical strategies common in medical and healthcare environments. More specifically, you will learn how to edit documents that are used to communicate within and about the healthcare industry.

Learning Outcomes

• Identify the written, spoken and media genres that are common in medical and healthcare industries.
• Demonstrate how to write process-centered text for healthcare workplaces, specifically protocols and instructions.
• Develop educational materials for patients that are appropriate for a variety of medical uses.
• Explain a medical or healthcare issue by producing a feature article for a magazine or journal.

Writing Proposals and Grants (ENG 60411)

Course Description: Within medical and healthcare organizations, proposals and grants are the lifeblood of the workplace. In this course, you will learn to write proposals and grants for both profit and nonprofit organizations. Students will interpret rhetorical situations, anticipate client/funding agency needs, strengthen their ability to clearly describe current situations, set objectives, and develop solutions. By the end of the course, students will analyze real-world proposals that are ready to submit to either a client or a funding source

• Interpret and analyze a request for proposals (RFP).
• Identify the “problem” that initiated the RFP, determining its causes and effects.
• Develop clear objectives, outcomes and deliverables that will make a project attractive to a client.
• Propose a project plan that meets the client’s needs and expectations.
• Demonstrate why your company or organization is uniquely qualified to take on the project.
• Compare the costs and benefits for evaluators, communicating the issues around accepting a project or grant proposal.
• Present a proposal in-person or via video to decision-makers.

Editing and Publishing (ENG 60511)

Course Description: Master the use of professional editing tools and techniques that are standard in the publishing industry. In this course, you will also learn how to work as a professional editor at four critical levels, including proofreading, copyediting, substantive editing and development editing.

• Apply editing techniques of proofreading, copyediting, substantive editing and development editing.
• Demonstrate effective decisions making around the editing needed and expected for a task or a piece of writing.
• Employ editing and publishing terminology and knowledge of a variety of documents in different situations.
• Demonstrate the use of proofreading and copyediting marks as used in print-based and electronic documents.
• Employ strategies for doing substantive editing on larger documents in scientific, technical, medical and healthcare professional settings.

Medical Writing Jobs Outlook

According to an American Medical Writers Association survey salary, the median annual salary of their medical writers was $144,500 (amwa.org, 2019). Medical writers and editors earn more than other technical writers who, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, had a national median annual wage of $78,060 in 2021.  The number of U.S. technical communications jobs is expected to increase by six percent between 2021 and 2031.

The following professionals are ideal candidates for the healthcare writing graduate certificate:

• Professional writers, editors, designers and publishers employed in the healthcare, technical and scientific workplace
• Technical writers in pharmaceuticals, public health, government health agencies, research facilities, clinics, hospitals and other healthcare organizations
• Scientific professionals expanding their careers into medical and healthcare communications
• Healthcare professionals looking to elevate and refine their professional writing and communication skills
• Educators and grant writers

Admissions and Costs

                                                                        In-State Out-of-State

Total Cost per Credit Hour                         $520                    $820

Credit Hours Per course                             3                           3

Cost per course                                           $1,560                 $2,460

Total Certificate Cost                                  $4,680                 $7,380

Enroll today and start one of the eight-week courses in August, October, January, or March. Medical and healthcare writing classes may be taken individually and in any order. Currently enrolled Purdue students can register for any of these classes. However, students will need to apply to the graduate program and complete all nine credits to receive the certificate.

To apply, submit a completed application, accompanied by the following items:

• Professional resume
• A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or equivalent
• Official transcripts from all universities attended, including transfer credits
• One letter of recommendation
• A short personal statement
• An application fee of $60 ($75 for international students)

Apply today at: https://gradapply.purdue.edu/apply/

Richard Johnson-Sheehan Email: [email protected]

Professor Johnson-Sheehan is a nationally known expert in scientific, technical, medical and healthcare writing. He has authored several of the major textbooks in the field, including Technical Communication Today 6e, Writing Today 4e, and Argument Today 2e . At Purdue, he is the Director of ICaP, the introductory writing program. He also works with the Purdue Foundry, the start-up incubator. Johnson-Sheehan has been awarded the Jay R. Gould Award for Teaching Excellence in Technical Communication, and he is a Fellow of the Association for Teachers of Technical Writing.    

Frequently Asked Questions

What careers does this certificate prepare me for.

• Grant Writer
• Medical and Healthcare Writer
• Medical and Healthcare Editor
• Medical Communication Specialists, Managers and Directors
• Scientific Writer / Editor
• Technical Writer / Editor
• Regulatory Writer
• Healthcare Marketer
• Healthcare Journalist
• Technical Copywriter
• Content Marketing Writer

Companies hiring this skill set include pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology agencies, government health agencies, medical education organizations, healthcare associations, academic institutions, healthcare publishers, trade publications, medical communication companies and more.

What undergraduate degrees should I have?

A variety of undergraduate degrees are appropriate for the medical and healthcare graduate certificate. Common areas of bachelor’s degrees for medical and healthcare writers include communications, journalism, health sciences, pre-med, pharmaceutical studies, biology, chemistry, bioengineering, medical design, English, marketing, and more.

How do online classes work? Do I have to be at my computer at a specific time?

As a Purdue student, you will be taking classes in an online environment. Instructors provide materials, lectures, tests and assignments that can be accessed at any time. Your lectures are not time restricted, meaning you don't need to be logged in to view your course materials at a specific time. However, all of your course activities, assignments and exams must be completed by their respective due dates. You will need to view course lectures regularly to keep current.

How will I be graded?

Students are graded based on their performance in class. The courses we offer online will have various methods for grading depending on the specific requirements for a given class. Students can expect to experience any combination of homework, graded exam, final project, group work or graded reports.​

Hourly Wage for Medical Writer I Salary in the United States

Hourly wage for medical writer i salary.

How much does a Medical Writer I make hourly in the United States? The average hourly wage for a Medical Writer I in the United States is $34 as of April 24, 2024, but the range typically falls between $28 and $38 . Hourly rate can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education , certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target. 

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Medical Writer

JCW - Irvine, CA

NEUROVUE - Rockville, MD

Medical Writer (Clinical SOP Writer)

Zenith LifeScience - Nutley, NJ

Medical Writer, Medical Communications (various levels)

OPEN Health - Boston, MA

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What skills does a Medical Writer I need?

Each competency has five to ten behavioral assertions that can be observed, each with a corresponding performance level (from one to five) that is required for a particular job.

Attention to Detail: Executing and completing a task with a high level of accuracy.

Word Processing: word processing, operation in which a text-editing software program called a word processor is used to create a document on a computer. A word-processing system can produce a wide variety of documents, including letters, memoranda, and manuals, rapidly and at relatively low cost.

Medical Education: Medical education is a course of study directed toward imparting knowledge and skills required for the prevention and treatment of diseases to persons seeking to become physicians.

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Job Description for Medical Writer I

Medical Writer I is responsible for researching, writing, and editing clinical/statistical reports and study protocols: summarizes data from clinical studies for submission to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). May require a bachelor's/master's degree and 0-2 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Being a Medical Writer I has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Additionally, Medical Writer I works under immediate supervision. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. (Copyright 2024 Salary.com)... View full job description

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Salary.com job board provides millions of Medical Writer I information for you to search for. Click on search button below to see Medical Writer I job openings or enter a new job title here.

• Medical Writer NEUROVUE - Rockville, MD NEUROVUE is disrupting the Life Sciences consulting paradigm with a proprietary approach to talent attraction and retention. With focus and extensive inves... - 6 Days Ago
• Medical Writer (Clinical SOP Writer) Zenith LifeScience - Nutley, NJ Job Summary. The Clinical SOP Writer edits and performs QC review of clinical procedures. The Writer may also eventually work with Process Owners, Subject ... - 2 Days Ago
• Medical Writer, Medical Communications (various levels) OPEN Health - Boston, MA Medical Writer/Senior Medical Writer, Medical Communications. Approved for FT remote in the United States. Our Medical Writer/Senior Medical Writers work a... - 2 Days Ago
• Associate Medical Writer Integrated Resources, Inc ( IRI ) - St Paul, MN Job Description. HM's Top 3. Detail-oriented. Quick learner. Strong communication skills. Education Required: Bachelor’s degree. Years’ Experience Required... - 2 Days Ago

Career Path for Medical Writer I

A career path is a sequence of jobs that leads to your short- and long-term career goals. Some follow a linear career path within one field, while others change fields periodically to achieve career or personal goals.

For Medical Writer I, the upper level is Medical Writer II and then progresses to Medical Writer III.

What does a Medical Writer I do?

Are you an hr manager or compensation specialist.

Salary.com's CompAnalyst platform offers:

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Medical Writer I Pay Difference by Location

Medical Writer I salary varies from city to city. Compared with national average salary of Medical Writer I, the highest Medical Writer I salary is in San Francisco, CA, where the Medical Writer I salary is 25.0% above. The lowest Medical Writer I salary is in Miami, FL, where the Medical Writer I salary is 3.5% lower than national average salary.

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Level of education for medical writer i.

Jobs with different levels of education may pay very differently. Check the Medical Writer I salary of your education level.

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Medical Writer I Salary by State

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Salary estimation for Medical Writer I at companies like : GoldenGift Co , Wellbridge Athletic Club & Spa , Chemung County Supreme Court