As you know, in 2019 I became a Clinical Data Manager, after following a course at the mibeg_Medicine Institut in Cologne, Germany. Since then, many have asked me how to become a clinical data manager and if there are universities to directly become a clinical data manager. In this article I will tell you how I became a clinical data manager and I will answer some of your questions!
How can I become a Clinical Data Manager in Germany?
Well, the career as Clinical Data Manager in Germany is not driven by a typical university degree. There are several ways to become a Clinical Data Manager.
If you want to become a Clinical Data Manager in Germany, you must have a suitable educational background, such as health informatics, statistics or a relevant area. You could consider obtaining certifications such as the “Certified Clinical Data Manager (CCDM)” from DKM e.V., German Association for Clinical Data Management, which shows off your expertise and makes it easier for you to find employment.
It is also useful to have experience in healthcare or research settings and familiarity with data management software and systems.
What is a Weiterbuildung at mibeg Medizin Institut /Medicine Institute?
Weiterbildung is the German word for continuing education or professional development.
It typically refers to courses or programs that help individuals gain additional skills or knowledge in a specific field or profession.
MIBEG Institute for Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology offers a program in “Clinical Data Management (Medizinisches Informationsmanagement)” which is a Weiterbildung program.
This program is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to work as a Clinical Data Manager in the healthcare industry.
The program covers topics such as data management in clinical trials, regulatory requirements, and the use of data management systems.
It is likely that this program is designed for professionals who already have a background in healthcare or a related field and are looking to specialize in clinical data management.
Which is the level of German I need to have to become a Clinical Data Manager and work in a clinical study?
Well, that’s a very GOOD question. Theoretically, you need a B2, but I would answer: “it depends”.
I mean a B2 is enough to understand the lessons and talk with the other colleagues but sometimes it becomes hard to follow all the lessons until the end.
To become a Clinical Data Manager and work in a clinical study in Germany, it is generally recommended to have a C1 level of German language proficiency.
The German language is widely used in the healthcare and research industries, and many clinical studies are conducted in German.
You will likely need to be able to understand and communicate effectively with colleagues, physicians, and other professionals in German, as well as read and understand German regulations and guidelines related to clinical data management and clinical research.
If you are interested in a specific program or employer, you should check the requirements as they may have specific language requirements.
Is the Weiterbuildung paid by the Arbeitsagentur in Germany?
The answer is yes, if you have been working at least one year in Germany with a full time contract.
The Arbeitsagentur, also known as the Federal Employment Agency, is a government agency in Germany that provides various services to job seekers and employers. One of these services is the funding of Weiterbildung (continuing education or professional development) courses.
In Germany, the Arbeitsagentur provides funding for Weiterbildung courses to individuals who are unemployed and actively seeking employment. The funding can be used to cover the costs of the course, such as tuition, materials, and travel expenses.
To be eligible for funding, individuals must meet certain criteria, such as being unemployed and registered with the Arbeitsagentur, and the course must be relevant to the individual’s job prospects and be recognized as a Weiterbildung course by the Arbeitsagentur. The Weiterbildung must also be taken during the period of unemployment.
It is recommended to check the specific regulations and requirements of the Arbeitsagentur in your area, and consult with an Arbeitsagentur representative for more information.