Thanks a lot, everyone for your wonderful suggestions.
Joanne, thank you! I will definitely sign up for a classroom course. You are right, I'll help me connect with other regulatory people :)
Original Message:
Sent: 06-Jan-2017 11:16
From: Kathryn Howland
Subject: Medical device Certificate Program - RAPS and other programs
I agree with Joanne. I understand being very busy and finding it difficult to physically go to classes; but, I found regular in-person meetings to be very valuable to my career. More than 7 years after the program, I am still in regular contact with some of my classmates. Also, I landed a great job through the in-person classes. One of my instructors was impressed with me and recommended me for a job with his company, which I got.
My opinion is that in-person is the best way to go.
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Kathryn Howland RAC
Regulatory Affairs Specialist
Penngrove CA
United States
Original Message:
Sent: 05-Jan-2017 12:52
From: Joanne Pelaschier
Subject: Medical device Certificate Program - RAPS and other programs
Hi Pooja,
Here is something to consider when choosing between on line and in-person programs. On-line programs are valuable and allow more flexibility in scheduling. However, in-person programs allow for building personal connections with people in the local industry. They also allow for exchanges of skill and experience.
I chose the UCSC extension program for exactly this reason. The coursework is strong, and the people I met are now colleagues and friends. If you are new to the region, I'd suggest in person coursework, whether you pursue a full certificate or not.
There was an additional advantage to in-person coursework. I had the chance to see where I had particular strengths and skills relative to my classmates (and vice versa.) Working with a group of classmates allows you to see what you do best as well as what you want to do most. That helps you focus your search on mutually rewarding opportunities.
If you get the chance, take Craig's course - writing a 510(k) in 8 weeks, starting from scratch, gives you work product to show potential employers and is also a huge confidence builder.
Good luck!
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Joanne Pelaschier RAC,PHD
Sr. Regulatory Specialist
Milpitas CA
United States
Original Message:
Sent: 04-Jan-2017 14:51
From: Craig Coombs
Subject: Medical device Certificate Program - RAPS and other programs
Pooha:
In your area, the University of California - Santa Cruz, has an excellent Medical Device Submissions Certification program. It's based in Santa Clara, not Santa Cruz, so it's close to Foster City.
Like Mark, I'm biased about the program, because I'm an instructor for the Medical Devices Submissions course. Mine is the only course in the nation that requires that all students to complete an entire mock 510(k) on their own. I has proven to be a powerful piece of evidence of your capabilities for potential employers. Many of my students have gone on to get jobs in regulatory, some even when they are in the midst of my 8 wk course.
Naturally there are other courses that are necessary to complete the Certification, but you'll find them all very helpful.
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Craig Coombs RAC
President
Coombs Medical Device Consulting
Alameda CA
United States
Original Message:
Sent: 29-Dec-2016 12:55
From: Pooja Mhambrey
Subject: Medical device Certificate Program - RAPS and other programs
Hi folks,
I want to take a certificate program to gain more knowledge on Medical device submission processes and requirements in the U.S
Has anyone taken the Medical Device Certificate program offered by RAPS before? Needed some feedback.
What other programs would you recommend to gain knowledge in U.S regulations for Medical devices?
Below are the other courses I found. Any feedback on these?
http://extension.berkeley.edu/public/category/courseCategoryCertificateProfile.do?method=load&certificateId=17180
http://www.ucsc-extension.edu/programs/medical-devices-certificate
http://www.ucsc-extension.edu/programs/regulatory-affairs
I worked for over 4 years as RA specialist(medical device) in Singapore and need to get up to speed on the regulations in the U.S
Thanks and regards,
Pooja
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Pooja Mhambrey
Foster City CA
United States
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