A clinical data manager ensures that medical research data is accurate, complete, and compliant with regulations. You'll work with computers and healthcare information every day. The role requires a bachelor's degree and strong attention to detail.
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Clinical data managers oversee the collection, processing, and documentation of patient information in medical research and clinical trials. You'll verify that data meets regulatory standards, communicate findings to supervisors and research teams, and evaluate information for accuracy and compliance. Your work bridges healthcare and technology. You'll spend time at a computer managing databases, reviewing records, and writing detailed reports. Attention to detail and the ability to spot inconsistencies are core to the job. You work closely with doctors, nurses, and research coordinators to keep studies on track.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Clinical Data Managers earn a median of $120,230 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is strong. Employment is projected to grow 34 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average for all occupations, with about 23,400 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You'll need a bachelor's degree to enter this field. Your coursework should cover English, mathematics, and computer systems, along with foundational knowledge in healthcare and administration. The role is classified as Job Zone 4, meaning considerable preparation is expected. Consider internships or entry-level positions in healthcare data or research settings while you study. Strong reading comprehension and the ability to learn new software quickly will serve you well. After graduation, you may find positions in hospitals, research centers, or pharmaceutical companies.
Most paths to this career start with a bachelor's degree in a health-related or data field. Your choice of major and any internships you pursue will shape your entry point, so if you're weighing options, Pathly can map the clinical data manager path that fits you and turn it into a step-by-step plan with your counselor in the loop.
You do not need a license to work as a clinical data manager, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You're detail-oriented and methodical. You prefer structure and clear standards. You're comfortable with systems and processes, and you like knowing exactly what's expected of you.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).