The pharmaceutical industry operates at the intersection of science, innovation, and commercial strategy. The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Pharmaceutical Product Development and Marketing offers a comprehensive introduction to the full lifecycle of pharmaceutical products—from initial concept and clinical testing to marketing and market entry. This course is designed to support participants in understanding how scientific development aligns with regulatory standards and commercial strategy to bring successful medicines to the public.
With increasing demands for evidence-based marketing and compliance with international regulatory frameworks, professionals in the pharmaceutical sector need an integrated skill set that covers research, development, compliance, communication, and market positioning. This diploma provides essential knowledge and practical tools for participants to contribute confidently to both scientific and commercial aspects of pharmaceutical work.
This programme introduces participants to the multidisciplinary process of pharmaceutical product development and the strategic considerations involved in marketing healthcare solutions. It offers an overview of drug discovery and formulation, clinical trials, product registration, and branding within regulated environments.
Structured over 30 hours, the diploma blends theoretical insight with applied case studies. Participants will examine how new pharmaceutical products are brought from concept to market, learning about formulation science, safety and efficacy trials, regulatory pathways, and branding strategies.
Upon completion, participants may pursue advanced diplomas in clinical research, health economics, regulatory science, or pharmaceutical management. The course lays the groundwork for roles in brand management, medical affairs, regulatory consultancy, and global market access across the pharmaceutical and life sciences sectors.
OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Pharmaceutical Product Development and Marketing
Study Units
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Pharmaceutical Product Development and Innovation (3 hours)
- Understand the stages of pharmaceutical product development from concept to market
- Identify the key stakeholders and functions involved in the development process
- Recognise the importance of innovation and patient need in product design
- Explore the impact of scientific and market trends on product pipeline strategies
Drug Formulation, Delivery Systems, and Quality Control (5 hours)
- Gain knowledge of various drug formulation techniques and delivery systems
- Understand the role of excipients, bioavailability, and stability in product design
- Learn the fundamentals of pharmaceutical quality control and assurance
- Assess how formulation choices impact patient outcomes and market competitiveness
Clinical Trials and Evidence-Based Product Validation (4 hours)
- Understand the phases of clinical trials and the role of evidence in drug approval
- Identify the ethical and methodological principles of clinical research
- Interpret clinical data for use in regulatory and marketing strategies
- Evaluate the significance of real-world evidence in product validation
Regulatory Affairs and Global Drug Approval Processes (4 hours)
- Gain insight into UK and international regulatory frameworks (MHRA, EMA, FDA)
- Understand the procedures and documentation required for product licensing
- Learn how regulatory affairs support compliance throughout the product lifecycle
- Explore strategies to manage regulatory variations across global markets
Pharmaceutical Market Research and Consumer Insights (3 hours)
- Conduct basic market research to identify consumer needs and preferences
- Interpret healthcare market data to inform product development and positioning
- Apply segmentation and targeting techniques in pharmaceutical contexts
- Understand the importance of patient-centred insights in shaping value propositions
Strategic Marketing and Product Positioning in Healthcare (5 hours)
- Develop strategic marketing plans tailored to pharmaceutical products
- Apply positioning frameworks to differentiate products in competitive markets
- Understand pricing, promotion, and distribution strategies in regulated sectors
- Align marketing approaches with clinical value, safety, and compliance standards
Branding, Product Launch, and Life Cycle Management (3 hours)
- Learn key principles of pharmaceutical branding and identity creation
- Design launch strategies that align with regulatory and market readiness
- Understand lifecycle management tools for maximising long-term product value
- Coordinate commercial and scientific teams for sustained brand performance
Ethical Considerations and Compliance in Pharma Marketing (5 hours)
- Understand the ethical boundaries of pharmaceutical promotion
- Comply with advertising regulations and industry codes of conduct (e.g. ABPI Code)
- Recognise risks associated with misinformation, overpromotion, or off-label marketing
- Implement responsible marketing strategies that support patient trust and health outcomes
Course Benefits – OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Pharmaceutical Product Development and Marketing
- Equips participants with a comprehensive understanding of the pharmaceutical product lifecycle, from development to market launch
- Enhances knowledge of regulatory frameworks, compliance protocols, and global drug approval processes
- Strengthens skills in strategic planning, branding, and ethical marketing within the pharmaceutical sector
- Develops practical competencies in conducting market research and applying consumer insights to product positioning
- Provides a multidisciplinary perspective that bridges scientific formulation and commercial strategy
- Supports the development of effective communication with healthcare professionals, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies
- Increases awareness of digital tools and innovation in pharmaceutical promotion
- Encourages responsible and patient-centred marketing aligned with industry codes and standards
- Offers a recognised CPD qualification to support ongoing professional development and career progression
- Prepares participants for cross-functional roles in pharmaceutical companies, regulatory agencies, or healthcare marketing firms
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Pharmaceutical Product Development and Marketing is tailored for participants who are engaged in, or aspiring to enter, the pharmaceutical and healthcare product industries. This course is particularly suitable for those who:
- Work in pharmaceutical development, regulatory affairs, or clinical research
- Are involved in healthcare marketing, branding, or communications
- Support product management, strategic planning, or commercial operations within life sciences organisations
- Are transitioning from scientific or clinical roles into pharmaceutical business functions
- Require a formal understanding of the product development and commercialisation process
- Wish to enhance their ability to align regulatory, scientific, and marketing objectives
- Aim to strengthen their ethical and professional standards in healthcare promotion
This diploma is ideal for professionals seeking to integrate technical knowledge with commercial strategy, and contribute effectively across multidisciplinary teams in the pharmaceutical sector.
