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These best medical writing courses are a great way to learn from other people who've got their finger on the pulse of medical writing practice. Here's a summary of each continuing medical education (CME) course to help you learn who it's for and why it's great.

Best Medical Writing Course Shortlist

Here's a shortlist of the best patient care courses I think are worth your time in 2025 to broaden your career options:

  1. Advanced PG Diploma in Clinical Research & Medical Writing (James Lind Institute)
  2. Introduction to Medical Writing and Artificial Intelligence (HWH)
  3. Intro to Medical Writing (Medical Writing University)
  4. Non-credit Certificate Program in Medical Writing and Editing (University of Chicago)
  5. Medical Writing Certificate (University of California San Diego)
  6. Writing in the Sciences (Stanford University)
  7. Specialization in Regulatory Medical Writing (UW Professional & Continuing Education)
  8. Medical Writing Skills for Beginners (Udemy)
  9. Introduction to Medical Writing (Edukators London Ltd.)
  10. Medical Writing for Healthcare Professionals (Udemy)
  11. Medical Writing in Clinical Development (Parexel Academy)
  12. Medical Writing Fundamentals: How to Write Regulatory Documents (Barnett International)
  13. Regulatory Medical Writing Basics (Udemy)
  14. The Fundamentals of Medical Writing (MMS Academy)
  15. Applied Medical Writing and Editing (UC San Diego)
  16. Training in Medical Writing for Pharmaceuticals, Healthcare, and Digital Health (MedEduPro)
  17. Introductory Medical Writing (RAPS)
  18. Introduction to Medicinal Herbal Medical Writing (Medical Writing University)

Find more details about each course below.

Overview Of The Best Medical Writing Course

1. Advanced PG Diploma in Clinical Research & Medical Writing (James Lind Institute)

Advanced PG Diploma in Clinical Research & Medical Writing course page
The Advanced PG Diploma in Clinical Research & Medical Writing Course (Source)

This advanced degree offers a comprehensive understanding of clinical research, medical writing, and medical terminology, equipping students with the skills needed for the pharmaceutical and biotech industries. It covers in-depth knowledge to excel as a Clinical Research Professional and Medical Writer. 

  • Who It’s For: Professionals seeking advanced training in clinical research and medical writing
  • Topics Covered:
    • Clinical Research
    • Medical Writing Skill Set
    • Regulatory Affairs
    • Scientific Communication
  • Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
  • Exam Required? Yes
  • Duration: 1 year
  • How Many Hours Of Instruction: 100 hours
  • Eligibility Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in life sciences or related field
  • Price: Contact for pricing
  • Take The Course: James Lind Institute

2. Introduction to Medical Writing and Artificial Intelligence (HWH)

Screenshot Introduction to Medical Writing and Artificial Intelligence course
The Introduction to Medical Writing and Artificial Intelligence Course (Source)

These online courses provide a detailed look into how AI is transforming the field of medical writing, offering insights into leveraging AI tools effectively. It guides learners through using AI to enhance productivity while maintaining high-quality medical content. Taught by an experienced medical writer, the course ensures a balanced understanding of AI’s role in modern medical writing.

  • Who It’s For: Target audience is beginners in medical writing interested in AI applications
  • Topics Covered:
    • Basics of Medical Writing
    • AI in Medical Writing
    • Creating effective ChatGPT prompts for medical content
  • Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
  • Exam Required? No
  • Duration: 6 weeks
  • How Many Hours Of Instruction: 2 hours per week
  • Eligibility Requirements: No prerequisites
  • Price: $259
  • Take The Course: HWH

3. Intro to Medical Writing (Medical Writing University)

Intro to Medical Writing course landing page
The Intro to Medical Writing Course (Source)

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to clinical and regulatory medical writing, focusing on the practices needed to craft essential documents for clinical trials and regulatory submissions. It covers key writing standards, data integrity, and the technical aspects of effective medical writing. Through hands-on projects and course content assessment, learners gain practical experience that connects theory to real-world applications.

  • Who It’s For: Individuals new to medical writing
  • Topics Covered:
    • Introduction to Medical Writing
    • Writing Techniques
    • Document Types
  • Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
  • Exam Required? No
  • Duration: 6 weeks
  • How Many Hours Of Instruction: 9 to 12 hours per week
  • Eligibility Requirements: None
  • Price: $1,450
  • Take The Course: Medical Writing University
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4. Non-credit Certificate Program in Medical Writing and Editing (University of Chicago)

Non-credit Certificate Program in Medical Writing and Editing course website
The Non-credit Certificate Program in Medical Writing and Editing Course (Source)

This medical writing certificate program provides a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on mastering medical writing, editing, and communication using the AMA Manual of Style as a guide. Enrollment also offers interactive and flexible online learning, helping participants develop strong writing, editing, and data reporting skills. With expert instructors and networking opportunities, it’s designed to equip learners with essential skills within nine months to a year.

  • Who It’s For: Technical writers seeking professional certification in medical writing
  • Topics Covered:
    • Medical Writing Basics
    • Technical Writing
    • Editing Techniques
    • Industry Standards
  • Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
  • Exam Required? Yes
  • Duration: 9 to 36 months
  • Eligibility Requirements: Bachelor’s degree
  • Price:
    • Per course: $1,490
    • For certificate: $8,940
  • Take The Course: University of Chicago

5. Medical Writing Certificate (University of California San Diego)

Medical Writing Certificate course page screenshot
The Medical Writing Certificate Course (Source)

This program provides a strong foundation in medical writing for those with a biomedical, biologics medical research, or life sciences background, focusing on content for scientific audiences. It prepares participants to create materials for peer-reviewed journals, regulatory documents, and grant proposals. Ideal for building a career as a skilled medical communicator.

  • Who It’s For: Professionals aiming to enhance their medical writing skills
  • Topics Covered:
    • Medical Writing Principles
    • Regulatory Documents
    • Publication Writing
  • Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
  • Exam Required? Yes
  • Duration: 9 to 12 months
  • Eligibility Requirements: None
  • Price: $4,265
  • Take The Course: UC San Diego

6. Writing in the Sciences (Stanford University)

Writing in the Sciences course landing page screenshot
The Writing in the Sciences Course (Source)

This course helps scientists enhance their writing skills by focusing on clarity and efficiency. It covers practical techniques for writing scientific documents, handling peer reviews, and approaching grant writing. Its examples and exercises also equip learners with the tools to communicate their research effectively.

  • Who It’s For: Scientists and researchers seeking to improve their writing skills
  • Topics Covered:
    • Scientific Writing Techniques
    • Clarity and Conciseness
    • Writing for Journals
  • Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
  • Exam Required? No
  • Duration: 30 hours
  • How Many Hours Of Instruction: 10 hours a week (self-paced)
  • Eligibility Requirements: None
  • Price: Free
  • Take The Course: Coursera

7. Specialization in Regulatory Medical Writing (UW Professional & Continuing Education)

Specialization in Regulatory Medical Writing course website screenshot
The Specialization in Regulatory Medical Writing Course (Source)

This course focuses on creating documents for regulatory drug approvals, emphasizing U.S. FDA requirements. It teaches participants how to interpret clinical trial data and write clear regulatory submissions. Ideal for those looking to develop skills in regulatory medical writing.

  • Who It’s For: Professionals in regulatory affairs and medical writing
  • Topics Covered:
    • Regulatory Documents
    • Submission Processes
    • Compliance
  • Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
  • Exam Required? Yes
  • Duration: 12 weeks
  • Eligibility Requirements: Bachelor’s degree
  • Price: $1,545
  • Take The Course: UW Professional & Continuing Education

8. Medical Writing Skills for Beginners (Udemy)

Screenshot of Medical Writing Skills for Beginners course website
The Medical Writing Skills for Beginners Course (Source)

This course focuses on creating documents for regulatory drug approvals, emphasizing U.S. FDA requirements. It teaches participants how to interpret clinical trial data and write clear regulatory submissions. Ideal for those looking to develop skills in regulatory medical writing.

  • Who It’s For: Beginners in medical writing
  • Topics Covered:
    • Basic Medical Writing
    • Writing Techniques
    • Document Preparation
  • Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
  • Exam Required? No
  • Duration: 1 hour 29 minutes
  • How Many Hours Of Instruction: Self-paced
  • Eligibility Requirements: None
  • Price: $69.99
  • Take The Course: Udemy

9. Introduction to Medical Writing (Edukators London Ltd.)

Introduction to Medical Writing course landing page screenshot
The Introduction to Medical Writing Course (Source)

This course offers an introduction to the essential skills needed for a career in medical writing. It covers the basics of clinical research, medical journalism, and the process of creating standard operating procedures. Perfect for those looking to explore the foundations of medical writing and understand its career prospects.

  • Who It’s For: Anyone new to medical writing
  • Topics Covered:
    • Medical Writing Basics
    • Writing Techniques
    • Document Types
  • Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
  • Exam Required? No
  • Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
  • How Many Hours Of Instruction: Self-paced
  • Eligibility Requirements: None
  • Price: Free
  • Take The Course: Alison

10. Medical Writing for Healthcare Professionals (Udemy)

Medical Writing for Healthcare Professionals course page screenshot
The Medical Writing for Healthcare Professionals (Source)

This course teaches healthcare professionals how to transition into medical writing, focusing on creating content such as CE monographs and presentations. It provides practical guidance on building a portfolio, pitching to clients, and handling business aspects like taxes and contracts.

  • Who It’s For: Healthcare professionals
  • Topics Covered:
    • Professional Medical Writing
    • Document Preparation
    • Writing Techniques
  • Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
  • Exam Required? No
  • Duration: 5 hours and 2 minutes
  • How Many Hours Of Instruction: Self-paced
  • Eligibility Requirements:
    • Healthcare professional in medical writing
    • Life sciences scientist
    • Students pursuing medical or science writing
  • Price: $99.99
  • Take The Course: Udemy

11. Medical Writing in Clinical Development (Parexel Academy)

Medical Writing in Clinical Development course website
The Medical Writing in Clinical Development Course (Source)

This course offers an in-depth look at medical writing's role in clinical research and drug development. It covers strategies for creating key clinical documents, such as study protocols and reports, while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Participants will learn effective document messaging and quality management techniques across development stages.

  • Who It’s For: Professionals in clinical development
  • Topics Covered:
    • Clinical Development Writing
    • Regulatory Documents
    • Submission Processes
  • Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
  • Exam Required? Yes
  • Eligibility Requirements: Bachelor’s degree
  • Take The Course: Parexel Academy

12. Medical Writing Fundamentals: How to Write Regulatory Documents (Barnett International)

Medical Writing Fundamentals: How to Write Regulatory Documents course website
The Medical Writing Fundamentals: How to Write Regulatory Documents Course (Source)

This course provides an overview of writing practices, formatting, and effective communication for regulatory documents in the medical field. It covers practical applications for creating documents like clinical study reports, protocols, and Common Technical Document (CTD) modules. Real-life examples help learners understand how to craft well-structured regulatory documents for global submissions.

  • Who It’s For: Beginners and intermediate medical writers
  • Topics Covered:
    • Regulatory Document Writing
    • Practical Guidelines
    • Compliance
  • Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
  • Exam Required? No
  • Duration: 1.5 hours
  • How Many Hours Of Instruction: Self-paced
  • Eligibility Requirements: None
  • Price: $735
  • Take The Course: Barnett International

13. Regulatory Medical Writing Basics (Udemy)

Regulatory Medical Writing Basics course landing page
The Regulatory Medical Writing Basics Course (Source)

This course offers a clear introduction to the role of regulatory medical writing, covering the development process for investigational therapies and key industry documents. It familiarizes learners with essential tools, software, and the standard document development process from initiation to submission. The course also shares expert tips and insights, helping participants confidently start a career in regulatory medical writing.

  • Who It’s For: Beginners in regulatory medical writing
  • Topics Covered:
    • Basics of Regulatory Writing
    • Compliance
    • Document Types
  • Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
  • Exam Required? No
  • Duration: 3 hours 8 minutes
  • How Many Hours Of Instruction: Self-paced
  • Eligibility Requirements: None
  • Price: $19.99
  • Take The Course: Udemy

14. The Fundamentals of Medical Writing (MMS Academy)

Screenshot of The Fundamentals of Medical Writing course landing page
The Fundamentals of Medical Writing Course (Source)

This course provides essential training in medical writing, covering key practices and industry guidelines. It offers insights into the document creation process and tools needed for the field. Ideal for those looking to build or enhance their skills in medical writing.

  • Who It’s For: Beginners in medical writing
  • Topics Covered:
    • Fundamentals of Medical Writing
    • Writing Techniques
    • Document Preparation
  • Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
  • Exam Required? No
  • Duration: 10 weeks
  • How Many Hours Of Instruction: Self-paced
  • Eligibility Requirements: None
  • Price: $1,875
  • Take The Course: MMS Academy

15. Applied Medical Writing and Editing (UC San Diego)

Applied Medical Writing and Editing course page screenshot
The Applied Medical Writing and Editing Course (Source)

This course expands on foundational medical writing skills, focusing on more advanced topics in writing and editing scientific materials. It covers the process of selecting formats, organizing complex content, and mastering the editing of technical elements like SI units, tables, and medical nomenclature. Ideal for those looking to refine their expertise in medical writing and editing.

  • Who It’s For: Professionals in medical writing and editing
  • Topics Covered:
    • Applied Medical Writing
    • Editing Techniques
    • Document Preparation
  • Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
  • Exam Required? Yes
  • Duration: 3 month
  • How Many Hours Of Instruction: Self-paced
  • Eligibility Requirements: Bachelor’s degree
  • Price: $695
  • Take The Course: UC San Diego

16. Training in Medical Writing for Pharmaceuticals, Healthcare, and Digital Health (MedEduPro)

Training in Medical Writing for Pharmaceuticals, Healthcare, and Digital Health course website
The Training in Medical Writing for Pharmaceuticals, Healthcare, and Digital Health Course (Source)

This course provides comprehensive training in medical writing, focusing on developing essential skills for the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries. It combines practical assignments, expert guidance, and interactive sessions to enhance writing proficiency. Ideal for those looking to expand their expertise in medical communication.

  • Who It’s For: Professionals in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and digital health
  • Topics Covered:
    • Medical Writing for Pharmaceuticals
    • Healthcare Writing
    • Digital Health Writing
  • Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
  • Exam Required? Yes
  • Duration: 6 months
  • How Many Hours Of Instruction: 60 to 125 hours
  • Eligibility Requirements: Bachelor’s degree
  • Price: $360.94
  • Take The Course: MedEduPro

17. Introductory Medical Writing (RAPS)

Introductory Medical Writing course landing page screenshot
The Introductory Medical Writing Course (Source)

This course offers an introduction to medical writing from a regulatory perspective, focusing on developing essential writing skills for this field. It covers strategies for crafting effective messages, understanding basic statistics, and improving document quality. Ideal for those new to regulatory writing or looking to enhance their medical writing abilities.

  • Who It’s For: Beginners in medical writing
  • Topics Covered:
    • Basics of Medical Writing
    • Writing Techniques
    • Document Types
  • Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
  • Exam Required? No
  • Duration: 3 hours
  • How Many Hours Of Instruction: Self-paced
  • Eligibility Requirements: None
  • Price:
    • Non-member: $525
    • Member: $385
  • Take The Course: RAPS

18. Introduction to Medicinal Herbal Medical Writing (Medical Writing University)

Introduction to Medicinal Herbal Medical Writing course page screenshot
The Introduction to Medicinal Herbal Medical Writing Course (Source)

This course provides an introduction to medicinal herbal medical writing, focusing on foundational skills for writing about herbs used for medicinal purposes. It covers the essential standards and practices needed to excel in this niche area of medical writing. Participants engage in practical projects to apply what they have learned and develop their writing expertise.

  • Who It’s For: Those interested in medicinal herbal writing
  • Topics Covered:
    • Medicinal Herbal Writing
    • Writing Techniques
    • Document Preparation
  • Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
  • Exam Required? No
  • Duration: 6 weeks
  • How Many Hours Of Instruction: 9 to 12 hours per week
  • Eligibility Requirements: None
  • Price: $1,450
  • Take The Course: Medical Writing University

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John Payne

John Payne is the co-founder and company director of Symphony Health. With over 20 years of management experience John is working alongside his wife, Dr. Kate Payne to build a multi-site Medical Practice where staff work collaboratively for the good of their patients. John is passionate about improving access to quality Healthcare in North Vancouver and sharing best practice with other people managing medical practices.