Top 10 Clinical Research Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are important for a clinical research coordinator in the job market because they demonstrate the individual’s knowledge and expertise in the area of clinical research. They also provide employers with an objective measure of a candidate’s qualifications and capabilities. Additionally, certifications can give an individual an edge over other applicants when competing for jobs. Furthermore, many employers prefer to hire individuals who have obtained professional certifications, as these demonstrate that the individual is knowledgeable and committed to their profession. Finally, having a certification can open up opportunities for career advancement, such as promotions or higher salary offers.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Clinical Research Coordinators and provides an overview of how they can contribute to a clinical research coordinator's career.

What are Clinical Research Coordinator Certifications?

Clinical research coordinator certification is a credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise and knowledge in the field of clinical research. It is generally earned through successful completion of an accredited program or coursework, as well as successful passage of an exam. This certification provides a way for clinical research coordinators to demonstrate their qualifications and competency in the field.

Having this certification can help a clinical research coordinator stand out within their profession, as it is seen as a sign of professionalism and commitment to the job. It also allows them to stay up-to-date on industry developments and best practices, which can help them better manage their duties and responsibilities in their role. Additionally, having this certification may open up new opportunities for advancement or higher pay within their current organization or when applying for jobs elsewhere.

Pro Tip: Clinical Research Coordinator Certification is an excellent way to demonstrate your knowledge and experience in the field. To maximize the value of your certification, make sure to take advantage of all available resources and stay up to date with best practices in clinical research. Additionally, if you are looking to advance your career, consider joining a professional organization or attending conferences related to clinical research coordination.

Related: What does a Clinical Research Coordinator do?

Top 10 Clinical Research Coordinator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Clinical Research Coordinators today.

1. Certified Clinical Research Coordinator (CCRC)

A Certified Clinical Research Coordinator (CCRC) is a professional who is responsible for the design, implementation, and management of clinical research studies. The CCRC is responsible for ensuring that all aspects of the study are conducted in accordance with applicable regulations and guidelines. They must also ensure that ethical standards are maintained throughout the research process.

The certification process typically takes between six months to one year to complete. To become certified, applicants must have at least two years of experience as a clinical research coordinator or equivalent position and pass an exam administered by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP). Applicants should also have a basic understanding of Good Clinical Practice (GCP), regulatory requirements, and clinical trial design and management.

To get certified, applicants must submit an application to ACRP along with their resume and proof of experience. Once approved, they will be required to pay a fee that varies depending on the type of certification they are seeking. The cost can range from $300-$1,200 depending on the level of certification desired. After payment is received, applicants will receive access to online study materials and be able to register for the exam. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their CCRC certification.

2. Certified Clinical Trials Professional (CCTP)

Certified Clinical Trials Professional (CCTP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage clinical trials. The CCTP credential is administered by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP).

To become certified, individuals must pass an exam that covers topics such as clinical trial design, protocol development, project management, data management, regulatory requirements, and ethics. Individuals must also demonstrate at least two years of full-time experience in clinical research or related activities.

The exam is offered twice a year in April and October. It takes approximately four hours to complete and consists of 200 multiple choice questions. The cost for the exam is $450 for ACRP members and $550 for non-members.

In order to maintain the certification, individuals must participate in continuing education activities every two years. The cost for recertification is $250 for ACRP members and $350 for non-members.

3. Certified Investigator Site Manager (CISM)

Certified Investigator Site Manager (CISM) is a professional certification offered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC2). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in managing and leading investigations of computer security incidents. The CISM credential is highly sought after by employers, as it demonstrates an individual’s ability to manage and lead investigations into cyber security issues.

The CISM certification requires applicants to pass a four-hour exam which covers topics such as incident response, investigation management, data analysis and reporting, legal considerations, and business continuity planning. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and must be taken at an approved testing center.

To obtain the CISM credential, applicants must first meet certain prerequisites. These include having five years of experience in information security management or related fields, holding a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university, and passing the CISM exam with a score of at least 700 points out of 1000.

The cost for taking the CISM exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $600-$750 USD. After passing the exam, there is also an annual maintenance fee of $85 USD to maintain your CISM certification status.

4. Certified Principal Investigator (CPI)

A Certified Principal Investigator (CPI) is a certification that is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct clinical trials in accordance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards. The CPI certification is issued by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) and requires individuals to complete a comprehensive training program, pass an exam, and demonstrate experience in conducting clinical trials.

The CPI certification process typically takes 6-12 months to complete. To become certified, individuals must first complete an ACRP-approved training program. This can be done through online courses or in-person workshops. After completing the training, applicants must pass an exam administered by ACRP. Finally, applicants must demonstrate at least two years of experience in clinical research or related activities such as data management or regulatory affairs.

The cost for the CPI certification varies depending on the type of training chosen, but generally ranges from $2,000 - $4,000 USD.

5. Certified Clinical Research Associate (CCRA)

A Certified Clinical Research Associate (CCRA) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and experience in clinical research. The CCRA certification is offered by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the field of clinical research.

The CCRA certification requires applicants to have at least two years of full-time clinical research experience, with at least one year in a supervisory role. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as Good Clinical Practice (GCP), regulatory compliance, and ethics.

The process of becoming certified usually takes about three months from start to finish. To get started, applicants must first register for the exam and pay a fee of $400 USD. Once registered, applicants will receive study materials and have up to six months to prepare for the exam. When ready, applicants can schedule their exam at any Prometric testing center worldwide. Upon passing the exam, applicants will be officially certified as CCRA professionals.

The cost of becoming certified includes the $400 USD registration fee plus additional costs associated with studying for the exam such as books or online courses.

6. Certified Quality Assurance Professional (CQAP)

A Certified Quality Assurance Professional (CQAP) is a professional who has achieved a high level of expertise in the field of quality assurance. A CQAP is an individual who has demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the principles, practices, and techniques of quality assurance. The certification provides a way for employers to identify highly qualified professionals who have the necessary skills and experience to ensure the highest levels of product or service quality.

The certification process takes approximately 12-18 months to complete. During this time, applicants must pass a series of written exams as well as an oral defense. In order to become certified, applicants must have at least three years of experience in quality assurance or related fields.

In order to get certified, applicants must first apply for the CQAP program through the American Society for Quality (ASQ). Once accepted into the program, applicants will receive study materials and be assigned an instructor who will guide them through the process. Applicants are then required to take four written exams: Quality Management Fundamentals; Quality Planning; Quality Control; and Quality Improvement & Problem Solving. After passing all four exams, applicants must then defend their thesis before a panel of experts in order to obtain their certification.

The cost for becoming certified varies depending on which ASQ chapter you join and which exam package you select. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $400-$750 USD for all four exams plus additional fees for membership dues and application processing fees.

7. Certified Regulatory Affairs Professional (CRAP)

Certified Regulatory Affairs Professional (CRAP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of regulatory affairs. The CRAP program is administered by the Regulatory Affairs Professionals Society (RAPS), an international organization dedicated to advancing the regulatory profession.

The CRAP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge of regulatory principles, practices, and procedures through an examination process. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as medical device regulations, pharmaceutical regulations, biologics regulations, clinical trials regulations, and global health regulations.

In order to be eligible for the CRAP certification, applicants must have at least two years of full-time regulatory experience or equivalent part-time experience. They must also have completed a minimum of 30 hours of continuing education related to regulatory affairs during the past three years prior to application.

It typically takes about two months from when you apply for the exam until you receive your results. The cost of the CRAP certification exam is $450 for RAPS members and $550 for non-members.

8. Certified Clinical Data Manager (CCDM)

Certified Clinical Data Manager (CCDM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association of Clinical Data Management (ACDM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the management, analysis, and interpretation of clinical data. The CCDM credential is based on a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as data collection and validation, database design and implementation, data analysis methods, and reporting.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to prepare for the CCDM exam. This preparation time can vary depending on the individual's prior experience with clinical data management. To get started, individuals should review ACDM's list of recommended study materials and resources. Additionally, many universities offer courses specifically designed to help students prepare for the CCDM exam.

The cost of the CCDM exam is $395 USD for ACDM members or $495 USD for non-members. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their official CCDM certificate in the mail within 4-6 weeks.

9. Certified Clinical Project Manager (CCPM)

Certified Clinical Project Manager (CCPM) is a professional certification offered by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in clinical project management. The CCPM credential provides evidence that an individual has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage complex clinical projects.

It typically takes around three months to complete the requirements for certification. To become certified, applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in clinical research and pass a written exam. Applicants must also submit two letters of recommendation from colleagues or supervisors, provide proof of continuing education, and demonstrate commitment to ethical standards in clinical research.

The cost for the CCPM certification varies depending on the applicant’s country of residence. In the United States, it costs $450 for ACRP members and $550 for non-members. The fee includes the application fee, exam fee, and any additional fees required by ACRP.

Overall, obtaining the CCPM credential can be beneficial for those looking to advance their career in clinical research management as it demonstrates an individual’s dedication to their profession and expertise in managing complex projects.

10. Certified Good Clinical Practice Professional (CGCPP)

Certified Good Clinical Practice Professional (CGCPP) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the principles of Good Clinical Practice (GCP). The CGCPP certification is awarded by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the clinical research profession.

The CGCPP certification requires successful completion of an exam that tests knowledge and understanding of GCP principles. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. Candidates must demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of GCP topics such as ethical considerations, regulatory requirements, data management, monitoring, and reporting.

In order to take the CGCPP exam, candidates must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least two years of experience in clinical research or related field, a bachelor’s degree in a health-related field, or equivalent education/experience. Candidates must also submit an application form and fee before they can take the exam.

The cost for taking the CGCPP exam is $595 USD for members of ACRP and $795 USD for non-members. After passing the exam, there is an additional fee for certification maintenance which must be paid annually in order to maintain active status as a Certified Good Clinical Practice Professional (CGCPP).

Do You Really Need a Clinical Research Coordinator Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your goals and objectives. Generally speaking, a Clinical Research Coordinator Certificate can be beneficial for those who are looking to pursue a career in clinical research or who have already begun working in the field. With an official certificate, employers may be more likely to recognize your qualifications and trust you with important tasks. Additionally, having an official certification may make it easier to find jobs or secure promotions within the clinical research field.

At the same time, there are some drawbacks to obtaining a Clinical Research Coordinator Certificate that should be taken into consideration. In many cases, these certificates can be expensive and require significant amounts of time and effort to obtain. It is also important to note that having a certificate does not guarantee job success; other factors such as experience and skills will still play an important role in determining whether you are hired or promoted. Finally, it is worth noting that while some employers may prefer applicants with certificates, others may not consider them at all when making hiring decisions.

In conclusion, whether you need a Clinical Research Coordinator Certificate depends on your individual goals and objectives. If you believe that having a certificate would help you advance your career in clinical research then it may be worth pursuing one; however if the cost or effort of acquiring one does not seem feasible then it might be best to focus on developing other skills instead.

Related: Clinical Research Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Clinical Research Coordinator Certifications

1. What is a Clinical Research Coordinator Certification?

Answer: A Clinical Research Coordinator Certification is a professional certification that provides specialized training in the field of clinical research. This certification is designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills required to successfully manage clinical trials and studies.

2. How do I become Certified as a Clinical Research Coordinator?

Answer: To become certified as a Clinical Research Coordinator, you must complete an accredited program or course of study in clinical research, such as an online certificate program or an associate degree program. You may also need to take and pass the Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) exam offered by the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SOCRA).

3. What are the Benefits of Becoming a Certified Clinical Research Coordinator?

Answer: Becoming certified as a Clinical Research Coordinator provides several advantages, including increased job opportunities, higher salaries, and better career prospects. It also allows you to demonstrate your commitment to excellence in the field of clinical research and shows employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge for success in this role.

4. Are there any Continuing Education Requirements for Maintaining my Certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifications require continuing education credits (CECs) on an annual basis in order to maintain your certification status. The number of CECs required varies depending on your certification type and provider, so it’s important to check with your certification provider for more details about their requirements.

5. How Long Does it Take to Become Certified as a Clinical Research Coordinator?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified depends on several factors, such as which courses or programs you choose and how quickly you are able to complete them. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months up to two years or more depending on your individual circumstances.