About the Regulatory Affairs for Drugs and Biologics Program
The Specialized Certificate in Regulatory Affairs for Drugs and Biologics provides professionals with the knowledge and applied skills needed to navigate the regulatory requirements governing the development, approval, and post-market oversight of pharmaceutical and biologic products. Offered fully online, the program is designed for scientists, researchers, and other life science professionals seeking to advance or transition into regulatory affairs roles, as well as individuals entering the field who want to establish a strong career pathway in the life sciences industry.
Through applied, practice-based coursework taught by experienced industry professionals, participants gain a solid foundation in U.S. and global regulatory pathways, IND and BLA submissions, regulatory compliance, and interactions with health authorities. Drawing on UC San Diego’s strong ties to the San Diego biotechnology and life sciences community—one of the nation’s leading innovation hubs—the certificate prepares graduates to contribute effectively to the development and regulatory oversight of safe, high-quality therapies in a global regulatory environment.
What You'll Learn
- Explain the role and scope of regulatory affairs within the life sciences industry, including the ethical, legal, and scientific principles that guide product development and approval.
- Describe key regulatory frameworks and processes governing drugs and biologics in the U.S. and globally, with emphasis on FDA and international regulatory agencies.
- Develop and organize core components of regulatory submissions, including Investigational New Drug (IND) applications, Biologics License Applications (BLA), and other market authorization documents.
- Evaluate regulatory strategies that align scientific, business, and compliance objectives across the product lifecycle—from preclinical development through post-market surveillance.
- Communicate effectively with regulatory agencies, applying best practices for agency interactions, meetings, and correspondence to facilitate timely product review and approval.
- Apply practical knowledge and critical thinking skills to real-world regulatory challenges, supporting compliance and innovation in drug and biologic development.
Who it's Designed For
- Scientists and life science professionals working in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or related industries
- Individuals seeking to advance into or transition toward regulatory affairs roles
- Early-career professionals and recent graduates building foundational regulatory knowledge
- Professionals in clinical, quality, manufacturing, or research roles who work with regulatory teams
Regulatory Affairs for Drugs and Biologics
Required Courses
Electives
Five Units Required
Advisory Board
Shrenik Desai, M.S.
Margie Holmes, MAS
Amanda Lee, Ph.D., RAC
Malcolm Lloyd-Smith, M.Sc
Geetika Mathur, Ph.D., RAC
Ruth Waterman, M.D.
Related Programs
ADMET in Drug Development
Biotechnology Project Management