London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

Discovering the Right Programme

Hello there! My name is Shinya Murakami, and I work as a pharmacovigilance agreement specialist at a Japanese pharmaceutical company. Have you ever had a moment where you thought, “This is exactly what I was looking for!”? That’s exactly how I felt when I found LSHTM's Professional Certificate in Pharmacoepidemiology & Pharmacovigilance (PEPI) programme.

Pharmacovigilance and pharmacoepidemiology aren’t terms many people instantly recognise. Even with over seven years of experience in the field, I was still searching for a structured, in-depth academic approach to understand these crucial disciplines fully. Several universities offer related courses, but LSHTM stood out for its flexibility, intensive structure, and unique integration of both fields. Honestly, I now wish this course was a master’s programme - it's that good!

Beyond the engaging content, the real highlight has been the incredible network of like-minded students, each highly motivated and coming from diverse backgrounds. Learning has never felt this fun and fulfilling.

Why Continue Learning?

Some might wonder “Do you really need further study when you’re already established in your career?”. The answer is a resounding yes.

In Japan, pharmacovigilance and pharmacoepidemiology aren't widely taught in schools, despite their vital role in protecting patient safety. While other universities offer master’s programmes in related fields, LSHTM’s PEPI programme is unmatched in its comprehensive coverage within a short timeframe.

Even though I'm only halfway through, the knowledge I've gained so far surpasses what I've learned in the past seven years. If you're looking to build a career in this field, trust me - this course is worth it. The LSHTM faculty, including Dr. Christopher T. Rentsch, Dr. Julian, Ruth, Edward, Angel, Anne, and John, have done a phenomenal job creating a challenging yet enriching academic experience.

The Advantages of Online Learning

For those considering this course, now is the perfect time to join because it's currently offered online! This means you can participate from anywhere in the world as long as you have an internet connection.

Had this been an in-person programme, I wouldn't have been able to attend as a full-time worker based outside the UK. Studying remotely removes geographical barriers, making high-quality education accessible to professionals globally.

A Global Perspective

One of the greatest benefits of this programme is the opportunity to connect with students and experts from across the world. Drug safety is a global concern, transcending borders, cultures, and regulatory systems. The insights I've gained from my peers, especially those from Africa, have deepened my understanding of real-world challenges in different healthcare settings.

This isn't just about textbooks; it's about real-life applications. The programme features renowned lecturers from all over the world, ensuring a truly international perspective on pharmacovigilance and pharmacoepidemiology.

A Challenging but Rewarding Experience

Though I thoroughly enjoy the course, I won't sugarcoat it. The academic challenges are real. The assignments demand critical thinking and require us to view issues through the lens of regulatory authorities and academic professionals. However, the constructive feedback from tutors makes every effort worthwhile.

My Mission in Pharmacovigilance

In Japan, pharmacovigilance has evolved significantly, but there's still a need for a more global perspective and stronger international collaboration. Many professionals are highly skilled, yet the field remains largely domestic.

My mission is simple: to prevent harm and ensure patient safety worldwide. I also hope to reshape the pharmacovigilance system, balancing regulatory compliance with its core purpose - protecting lives.

Join the Journey!

I feel honoured and privileged to be part of LSHTM's community, working alongside professionals dedicated to making the world a safer place. If you're wondering whether to take this course, my advice is: GO FOR IT. Life is short. Take the opportunity. It's worth it. LSHTM welcomes passionate individuals from all backgrounds who are committed to ensuring global drug safety. If you're ready to take that step, we'll be here to welcome you. Thank you for reading! 

From Shinya Murakami with lots of love from Japan.

• Learn more about the Professional Certificate in Pharmacoepidemiology & Pharmacovigilance
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• View all short courses at LSHTM.