MWC Certification
Recognizing Medical Writing Professionals
The Medical Writer Certified (MWC®) credential, developed in collaboration between the Medical Writing Certification Commission (MWCC) and the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA), recognizes and distinguishes medical writing professionals who have demonstrated their expertise in the field.
By becoming an MWC, you can increase your credibility, showing employers and clients that you have a solid understanding of medical writing core competencies. You can also advance your career by enhancing your marketability and opening doors to new opportunities. Additionally, becoming an MWC demonstrates your commitment to professional development and ethical standards.
About the MWC Exam
The MWC exam is a computer-based test (CBT) administered in a secure, proctored setting. It’s offered at over 300 testing centers worldwide during two exam windows each year.
The 125-question, multiple-choice exam is administered in English, over a 2.5-hour period. The MWC Applicant and Candidate Handbook, and the Candidate Study Guide both provide an explanation of the 5 domains of medical writing covered in the exam (Gathering, Evaluating, Organizing, Interpreting, and Presenting). All exam questions relate directly to the knowledge, skills, and abilities linked to these 5 domains.
Review these resources to learn more about the MWC credential and the MWC exam.
Eligibility
Candidates for the MWC exam are professional medical writers with expertise in communication, awareness of ethical standards, and health care knowledge. They gather, evaluate, organize, interpret, and present medical and health information for specific audiences. Their expertise clarifies scientific advancements for healthcare professionals and educates the public about medical discoveries. Additionally, candidates must
- hold a bachelor's or advanced degree (in any field), and
- have at least 2 years of paid work experience in medical communication. The professional focus of this experience must be medical writing, not writing as part of clinical, scientific, or other work.
Review the eligibility FAQs and read the Qualifying Work Experience document, which provides detailed information of what activities constitute 2 years of paid medical writing experience, including examples.
Why Should You Earn the MWC?
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“[Earning the MWC] was the path to differentiate myself with tangible proof of my skill set…In addition to bringing value to my current role, I believe the credential will only grow in value.”
“Anyone can hang out a shingle and call herself a medical writer, but having the MWC identifies you as a professional who has demonstrated medical writing core competencies.”
“Since I don’t have a degree in medical writing, I wanted to show others (and myself) that I have the necessary skill set. MWC certification is a manifestation of my expertise; it gives my work credibility.”
“I proudly display the MWC credential in my email signatures, and I feel strongly that it enhances my credibility as a medical writer with new and existing customers.”
Newer to Medical Writing?
The MWC is specifically designed for experienced medical writers. If you're just starting out in the field of medical writing, we recommend exploring AMWA's Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Medical Writer and Essential Skills Certificate program.
The Medical Writing Certification Commission, with the support of AMWA, is a member of the Institute
for Credentialing Excellence (ICE).
