After having recently attended the SQA Annual Meeting, I was thinking about how important continuing our education is and the ways in which it can be accomplished.  Attending the meeting itself is one way, but there are several other venues you may be less or not aware of.  For example, there are several websites that offer on-line subscriptions, teleconferences and/or webinars in various QA and regulatory affairs-related topics.  These include FOI Services (www.FOIServices.com), EnKap (www.enKap.com), and Compliance Online (www.ComplianceOnline.com).  Teleconferences, subscriptions and/or webinars offered by these companies are fee based depending on the level of participation you require.  Fees typically range from $149 - $500.  FOI Services charges ~ $450 for their online webinars, but there is no limit on the number of attendees.  Whereas, Compliance Online charges a lower rate for an online webinar ($249) but this covers only one dial-in attendee.  See each respective website for more information on sessions and fees.  Explore a little; you never know what you’ll find.

The SQA is in the process of developing its online education program by soliciting RFPs for member presentations and has replaced its quarterly in-person Regulatory Forum meetings with webinars.  (The next one is scheduled for June/July.  SQA Members receive notification by email.)  Best part about the online education programs offered through SQA is that they are free to members!  Also, be sure to check out the various regional SQA chapters.  Many if not all offer opportunities for training, which are either free or at reduced prices to their members.

Lastly, for those looking to advance their career or perhaps change its direction, universities such as Johns Hopkins, Hood College, Temple University, and the University of Georgia offer masters degree programs in regulatory affairs.