Things You'll Need:
- Bachelors level of degree in science or equivalent
- Programming experience
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Step 1
Earn your 4-year degree to become a clinical programmer. Acceptable degrees at the Bachelor's level include those in the Life Sciences, Information Systems, Pharmacology or Nursing.
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Step 2
Expect to have at least 2 years of pharmaceutical programming in a clinical research environment before you can become a clinical programmer. However, a lack of practical experience can sometimes be compensated for if you have training in database programming and possess an advanced degree, such as a Masters in a science-related discipline.
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Step 3
Qualify to become a clinical programmer by demonstrating a solid working knowledge of Oracle Clinical database programming (PL/SQL), as well as related query tools and add-ons, such as Oracle Discover or Integrated Review.
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Step 4
Present a professional demeanor and exemplary communication skills when you interview to become a clinical programmer. This is important to a potential employer, since you will be required to facilitate the flow of information and ensure its validation between several layers of the clinical research team.
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Step 5
Search for available openings to become a clinical programmer from an online job database such as BioHealthmatics.com or Monster (see Resources below).
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Step 6
Consider working with a professional recruiter to help find you a placement as a clinical programmer. The LabRat.com website contains a list of recruiters who specialize in "head-hunting" for the biotechnology industry (see Resources below). You may search for a recruiting agency by name or by location.











