When thinking of a Master’s degree in Medical Science (MSMS), most think of medical school. That’s natural. After all, the MSMS program is perfect for pre-med students wanting higher education in anatomy, physiology, and beyond. It provides everything you need to know if you’re heading into the medical field.
However, you might wonder if the degree is worthwhile if you don’t want to be a doctor. While this degree is the perfect launchpad if you’re planning to be a doctor, you can do much more with an MSMS than that.
How exactly? It’s because this degree offers expert knowledge in biomedical sciences, research methods, and data analysis. Skills that are perfect in preparing you for the medical field, of course. But these are high-demand skills across many industries, too.
If you’re curious about unexpected Master’s in Medical Science careers, this list is for you. We’ll explore seven surprising careers with a Master’s in Medical Science that allow you to make a difference, even if you never step foot in a hospital.
1. Medical science writer
If you’ve got a way with words and a passion for precision, medical science writing might be your dream job.
Medical writers create content for scientific journals, educational platforms, and healthcare companies. The work can range from clinical study reports to explaining complex scientific topics simply for everyday readers. On average, medical writers can make $90,000 a year.
A Master’s in Medical Science degree gives you the technical knowledge and research literacy to write accurately about health and science. The MSMS teaches you how to interpret medical documents and findings, as well as craft engaging content. This is an extremely valuable skill set in the age of digital information.
2. Regulatory affairs specialist
Behind every drug and device bought by the public is an expert team ensuring it complies with strict regulatory guidelines. With an MSMS, you can become a part of that team.
Regulatory affairs professionals play a crucial role in the healthcare industry. They ensure that your equipment is up to date and functional, and manage communication with agencies like the FDA to stay compliant with evolving regulations. This helps maintain compliance throughout product development.
This is one of those unexpected Master’s in Medical Science careers where your research and trial design understanding becomes your greatest asset. An MSMS degree helps you navigate both the technical and ethical sides of healthcare innovation.
3. Clinical trial manager or coordinator
Who organizes and keeps watch on tests for new treatments? That’s the role of a clinical trial manager.
Coordinators ensure that tests and trials are well-designed, ethical, and executed properly. While doctors may act as investigators for the patients, that’s not the full picture. The heavy lifting is often managed behind the scenes by professionals with research expertise.
An MSMS program equips you with the knowledge of clinical processes, biostatistics, and protocols you need to thrive in this role. It’s one of the best Master’s in Medical Science careers for those who want to be part of medical breakthroughs without being a doctor.
4. Health technology consultant
Healthcare is going digital. As such, the demand for professionals who understand medicine and technology is growing. Health tech consultants collaborate with hospitals and tech firms to evaluate, implement, and enhance healthcare technologies, including AI diagnostic tools, electronic health records, and wearable medical devices.
A career that combines your medical insight and problem-solving with tech, your Master’s in Medical Science degree helps you review new technology and bridge the gap between healthcare providers and tech developers.
Our MSMS grads get exclusive MD program interview opportunities!
5. Public health policy advisor
Not all healthcare careers treat patients. Some handle the entire system.
Public health policy advisors work in tandem with government agencies, NGOs, and research institutions analyzing data, drafting health legislation, and developing programs that serve communities. Through this, policy advisors, a type of political scientist, can expect to earn a salary of $139,380 per year.
A Master’s in Medical Science prepares you to think systemically about health and use evidence-based strategies for policy change. If you want to change healthcare structurally, this is one of the most impactful careers with a Master’s in Medical Science you can pursue.
6. Medical affairs specialist in pharma or biotech
Medical affairs professionals serve as the bridge between pharmaceutical companies and the healthcare community. They answer technical and scientific questions from both ends and build relationships with physicians and researchers.
This role requires a deep understanding of clinical data. You’ll also need excellent communication skills to build credibility with healthcare professionals. An MSMS helps you develop the skills to effectively communicate on complex topics and support product launches.
It’s one of the more strategic Master’s in Medical Science careers, combining research, networking, and education. And one of the highest paying, with salaries averaging at
7. Science communication and media
A creatively growing field that sits at the intersection of education, media, and public service, science content creators are critical in helping everyone understand medical science. Whether it’s creating YouTube videos that debunk health myths or consulting for documentaries, you’re doing a public service. You can even do it on your own schedule.
Through a Master’s in Medical Science program, you gain the ability to explain and unpack medical topics with accuracy and nuance, making you a trusted voice in a noisy digital world. With the rise of misinformation, professionals who can communicate science clearly and truthfully are more essential than ever.
Interested in unexpected Master’s in Medical Science careers?
The Master’s in Medical Science isn’t just for students planning to become doctors. It’s a powerful and flexible degree that opens the door to impactful and often unexpected Master’s in Medical Science careers.
From policy advising to tech consultation, these roles all make use of the skills you’ll learn in a Master’s in Medical Science program. Skills like analytical thinking, research, and biomedical knowledge will be in your skillset.
Designed to empower students like you, University of Bridgeport’s MSMS program launches in Fall 2025. Whether you want to discover, advocate, or communicate, the MSMS degree gives you the tools you need.