With micro-credentials and digital badges, students and working professionals can now elevate their career prospects
The demand for specialized skills in the medical device field is growing rapidly due to significant expansion of the global market for these products. According to Fortune Business Insights, the market was valued at $518 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $886 billion by 2032. This growth is driven by an increase in chronic diseases like cancer and diabetes, leading to more diagnostic and surgical procedures. The U.S. medical devices market alone is expected to reach $314 billion by 2032, fueled by research and development investments and innovation.
With the rising prevalence of chronic conditions and advancements in medical technology, there is a clear demand for professionals with specialized skills to develop, manage and operate these advanced devices. Florida Gulf Coast University offers two digital badges to equip students for careers in this field: the Fundamentals of Medical Device Industry badge and the Medical Device Professional Sales badge. Developed in collaboration with Arthrex, a medical device company that specializes in orthopedics and minimally invasive surgery, these courses prepare students with in-demand skills for the industry.
Digital badges at FGCU are micro-credentials that enhance an individual’s resume by verifying to employers that they have the skills wanted in the workplace.
By fostering strong partnerships with leading companies like Arthrex, FGCU ensures students gain practical skills that are directly applicable to their future careers. This collaboration enhances the students’ learning experience and benefits Southwest Florida by preparing a skilled workforce ready to meet the needs of area employers.
Fundamentals of Medical Device Industry Badge
Launched in 2020, this digital badge immerses students in the industry, from the healthcare marketplace to product development and management and to the needs of healthcare and medical providers. With 36 graduates, this program offers a hands-on learning approach, bridging the gap between theory and practice. Open to all majors, it includes a guaranteed interview with Arthrex, making it a direct pathway to a career in the medical device sector.
Students gain a deep understanding of the healthcare marketplace, including health systems, healthcare payers and federal healthcare policy. They apply concepts and theories in product development and management specifically to the medical device industry, covering the entire product lifecycle, from concept to post-market. Additionally, students explore the critical aspects of clinical and regulatory compliance, including medical device quality system regulations, which are essential for staying competitive and reducing time to market. The badge also focuses on orthopedic research and the fundamentals of medical education, ensuring that students have the specialized knowledge necessary for success in the industry. Finally, they hone their communication skills, enabling them to effectively engage with healthcare providers, administrators and patients.
Medical Device Professional Sales Badge
Introduced in 2024, this badge focuses on essential sales competencies within the medical device industry. Designed by FGCU faculty in collaboration with Arthrex experts, the course equips students
with the knowledge and skills required to build a successful career in medical device sales. Like the fundamentals badge, this program also offers a guaranteed interview with Arthrex, giving graduates a significant advantage as they begin their professional journeys.
In this course, students develop a strong foundation in the sales processes specific to medical device products, applicable to both surgical and non-surgical procedures. They also learn to apply concepts and theories related to product development and management within the industry, navigating the various stages of the product lifecycle, from planning and design to validation and market introduction. The badge also delves into the regulatory and compliance requirements that govern medical devices, ensuring that students are well-versed in quality system regulations and competitive strategies that reduce time to market. Additionally, students assess the value of orthopedic research and gain the medical education necessary to thrive in the industry.
Why Choose FGCU’s Digital Badges?
These digital badges enhance credentials and provide a strategic advantage in a competitive job market. With the healthcare industry continuously evolving, professionals with specialized skills are increasingly in demand. FGCU’s partnership with Arthrex ensures that students are not just learning theory but also gaining practical, real-world experience that employers value. Earning one of these badges is a significant step toward a rewarding career in the medical device industry.
Whether current students are looking to enhance their education, or professionals are seeking to pivot into a new field, FGCU’s digital badges offer the flexibility and relevance needed to succeed. This opportunity enables individuals to invest in their future and take the first step toward becoming leaders in the medical device industry.
Take the Next Step Today
Don’t just graduate — graduate with a competitive edge. For more information, or to enroll, visit fgcu.edu/digital badges.
Florida Gulf Coast University
10501 FGCU Boulevard South
Fort Myers, FL 33965
(239) 590-1000 | fgcu.edu