Becoming an MSL without a PharmD. or MD/DO?

[HenryH]

I have seen a few job openings for MSLs (Medical Science Liaisons) that state that candidates "only" need a degree in Health Science (or some similar health-related degree) instead of the usual PharmD., MD or DO.

How common is it for people without one of the "Big 3" degrees listed above to score MSL jobs? If I were to get undergraduate and master's degrees in Health Science, would I stand a favorable shot at landing a job as an MSL?

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[Epic]

I may have seen an MSL who is a BSN..but with an advance degree.. But rare. Maybe a PhD in pharmacology. Another question you may want to ask is what happens if the drug you're detailing goes generic?

Another trait of MSLs I've dealt with had extensive clinical experience.

I've seen too many MSLs come and go. And that may be the only thing that's consistent about being an MSL.

 

[HenryH]

Are you saying that the job security of MSLs is flimsy? Is it a realistic "career?"

 

[Epic]

HenryH,

I'm not an MSL so I won't claim to have the inside scoop on the industry. But I work closely with MSL. I worked with on in the 90's. He was a previous Director of Pharmacy with a PharmD, residency, and a felloship. He was detailing Zithromax. Do you think he's still detailing Zithromax? No. I have no idea what he does now.

When a drug goes generic and is no longer marketed, MSL has to move on to a new product. Here is your dillema. Every time you have to move on to a new line or a new product, you'll be competing with other PharmD, MD, PhD who are MSLs. And most likely, you'll be less competitive with the degrees you're seeking.

If you're serious about becoming an MSL, and if it's your life long aspiration, consider a professional degree + academic degree..PharmD/PhD, MD/PhD, or BSN/PhD.