A medical illustrator is a professional artist trained to visually depict subject matter in the medical and biological sciences and uses these skills to disseminate medical and scientific knowledge through visual media. Most medical illustrators will have undergraduate training in fine art, science, or a similar study. The majority of medical illustrators will go on to obtain their Masters Degree in Medical Illustration. There are five programs of study that are accredited in North America. These programs are located at The Medical College of Georgia, John Hopkins University, The University of Illinois, The University of Texas - Southwestern, and The University of Toronto.

The Association of Medical Illustrators (AMI) is a professional organization whose purpose is to promote the study and advancement of medical illustration, maintain the standards for training in medical illustration, and to provide ethical guidelines for practice. The AMI also maintains a committee existing to administer a certification program in order for medical illustrators to gain recognized credentials in their field. The designated Certified Medical Illustrator (CMI) can be voluntarily earned by passing a multi-faceted examination as well as a rigorous portfolio review. The credential is maintained by meeting continuing education requirements designed to keep the medical illustrator abreast of the latest techniques, medical advancements, and software developments.

For more answers to questions concerning working with medical illustrators, please visit the Client Guide on the AMI website.