TOPRA Student Membership

Who is eligible for Student Membership of TOPRA?

Individuals who are currently full time undergraduate students in any discipline can become Student members.

Those who are in the first full year after leaving university and not currently in a regulatory job can also take advantage of Student membership. These Student members may be in employment in another area of the healthcare industry or in any other paid employment and considering a move into regulatory affairs in the future.

Why become a Student Member of TOPRA?

There are few, if any, undergraduate courses that offer sufficient information on the regulatory processes to allow graduates to move directly into regulatory affairs – or indeed be aware that the role exists!

Regulatory affairs is an exciting and responsible career that has a direct effect on both public health and commercial success of the healthcare industries. TOPRA believes if more Students were aware of the opportunities in regulatory affairs they would consider this as an option. There is a good career structure in a range of employment settings and the rewards in terms of job satisfaction, intellectual stimulation and travel opportunities, as well as in financial terms, can be significant.

However, many employers want to see that a candidate has knowledge of regulatory systems and some experience in other aspects of healthcare before considering placing them in a regulatory role. Membership of TOPRA is one way in which Students can learn the fundamentals, extend their knowledge and networks and make an informed choice if regulatory affairs is a career for them.

What will Student Membership of TOPRA offer me?

Membership of TOPRA will give Students the opportunity to see if a career in regulatory affairs would interest them. Their membership provides information on the latest regulatory issues via on-line access to the respected monthly journal Regulatory Rapporteur plus a range of other web-based services. Student members are also entitled to discounts on conferences and training courses. Membership of TOPRA introduces Student members to a network of potential employers, mentors and career opportunities.

What do I have to do to become a Student member?

Simply complete the online application form and pay the annual fee of £25 to get membership for a full calendar year. You will receive a certificate to say you are a Student member of TOPRA and details of how to access the on-line services.

What educational background should a Student Member have?

Most regulatory roles are filled by science graduates from a range of disciplines who are able to grasp new scientific principles in the areas of pharmaceutics, biotechnology, toxicology, clinical research and medicine, or statistics and who want to use these scientific skills in combination with good communication, project management and strategic capabilities.

What further education is available if I decide to pursue a career in regulatory affairs?

TOPRA offers an MSc in Regulatory Affairs and an MSc in Medical Technology Regulatory Affairs. Visit www.topra.org for more information on postgraduate courses.