Regulatory science, as a new academic discipline, examines the intersection of science, business and law. The MS in Regulatory Science program consists of courses designed to examine the purposes of regulations and their relationships with the law.
Particular attention will be paid to regulations that shape the developmental and commercial path of food, drugs, biologics, medical devices, cosmetics and others that are overseen by the United States Food and Drug Administration. These products represent more than 20 percent of the United States economy. By understanding the history of regulatory policies in the U.S., the students gain insights into not only what needs to be done but also why the requirements are in place.
Students will become familiar with the laws and regulations shaping the structure and conduct of preclinical and clinical trials as well as the manufacturing requirements for regulated products. Students gain an understanding about the many complexities of blending engineering, pharmaceutical and regulatory sciences on a global scale. Projects and case studies will also provide graduates with a firm foundational knowledge in regulatory, quality and clinical sciences.
The STEM-designated program produces graduates whose backgrounds in biological, pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences are enhanced by the knowledge and skills needed to manage regulated biomedical products.
Full- and part-time students can expand their knowledge of regulatory affairs, clinical research and quality systems. Our goal is to develop regulatory science leaders in industry, government and academia.
Career support is offered to all students and alumni, including recruitment events, career fairs and regular distribution of job postings from companies nationally and internationally. Recruiters are aware of the reputation of our alumni and are eager to hire our graduates.
Earn your Master of Science in Regulatory Science online. Request more information.
Master of Science in Regulatory Science Curriculum
The USC MS in Regulatory Science degree requires satisfactory completion of 36 units beyond the baccalaureate degree. The core curriculum includes courses that focus on basic regulatory frameworks, advanced regulatory frameworks, quality assurance, clinical research, statistics, medical product law, and project management, as well as elective options. Hands-on experience is encouraged through the participation in academic and industry internships, or the TRAQS program.
Typically, courses offered by the Department of Regulatory and Quality Science can be taken either in-person or online (within the United States). Upon admission, a course plan will be developed to fit your needs.
Explore course descriptions now.
Career Opportunities for Regulatory Science Graduates
The FDA offers employment in more than 30 distinct disciplines, and opportunities within the industry can be even more varied. The following are but a few of the broad range of job categories within regulatory and quality sciences:
- Business development/corporate strategy
- Government affairs and policy
- Research and development
- Clinical trials management
- Risk management
- Quality assurance and control
- Good manufacturing processes
- Quality system regulation
- Domestic and international compliance
- Supply chain management
- Project management
- Drug safety
- Marketing
- Medical writing
- Post-marketing surveillance
- Comparative effectiveness
- Reimbursement
Your career in regulatory science starts here. Request information today.
Designed for Working Professionals
All courses offered by the Department of Regulatory and Quality Sciences can be taken online or in-person. Created for working professionals who wish to further their education but cannot travel to traditional classrooms, online students participate in the same classes as students who attend onsite. Lectures can be viewed in real time or at another time.
