Top 10 Research Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are important for a research coordinator in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the candidate has the necessary skills and experience to perform the job effectively. Certifications provide evidence that the coordinator is knowledgeable in their field, and have taken the initiative to gain additional qualifications. They may also give employers confidence that they can trust the coordinator to handle complex tasks and adhere to industry best practices. Furthermore, certifications can open up job opportunities as some employers will only consider candidates who hold certain credentials. Finally, certifications can be beneficial for career advancement, as it shows employers that the individual is dedicated to learning new skills and staying up-to-date on industry trends.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Research Coordinators and explains how they can help to advance a research coordinator's career.

What are Research Coordinator Certifications?

Research coordinator certification is an accreditation program that provides research coordinators with formal recognition of their expertise and experience in the field of clinical research. It is designed to provide a standardised, industry-wide recognition for those who have demonstrated their knowledge and proficiency in the conduct of clinical trials.

The certification process requires research coordinators to demonstrate mastery of key principles such as Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines, medical ethics, regulatory requirements, clinical trial design and data management. By passing this exam, research coordinators are able to demonstrate their qualifications and commitment to quality care.

Having a research coordinator certification can help individuals increase their employability and career opportunities within the clinical research field. It also demonstrates their professional competence and commitment to the highest standards of practice when conducting clinical trials. Additionally, employers may be more likely to hire certified individuals due to the assurance that they have met specific standards in their respective area of expertise. Furthermore, having a certification can improve job security as it allows employers to better identify qualified candidates for positions.

Pro Tip: Make sure to do research on the certification process for research coordinators before beginning the application process. It is important to understand all of the requirements for certification and make sure that you have fulfilled them prior to submitting your application.

Related: What does a Research Coordinator do?

Top 10 Research Coordinator Certifications

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

1. Certified Clinical Research Coordinator (CCRC)

A Certified Clinical Research Coordinator (CCRC) is a professional who has been trained and certified to coordinate clinical research studies. They are responsible for the design, implementation, and management of clinical trials, which involve collecting data from human subjects. The CCRC ensures that all protocols are followed according to the study’s protocol and applicable regulations.

To become a CCRC, individuals must complete an accredited program in clinical research or have at least two years of experience in clinical research coordination roles. After completing the program or gaining the necessary experience, individuals must pass an exam administered by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP).

The ACRP offers several different certification levels for CCRCs: Certified Clinical Research Coordinator (CCRC), Certified Clinical Research Associate (CCRA), and Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP). Each level requires different qualifications and experience.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to get certified as a CCRC depending on the individual's prior experience and training. To become certified, individuals need to complete an accredited program in clinical research or have at least two years of experience in clinical research coordination roles. After completing the program or gaining the necessary experience, they must pass an exam administered by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP).

The cost to take the ACRP certification exam varies depending on your membership status with ACRP; however, it typically ranges from $400-$600 USD.

2. Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP)

The Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) is a credential awarded by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in clinical research. The CCRP certification validates that an individual has the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct clinical research in accordance with accepted ethical and regulatory standards.

In order to become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass a comprehensive examination. To be eligible, applicants must have either a minimum of two years of full-time experience in clinical research or one year of full-time experience plus a relevant degree from an accredited college or university. In addition, applicants must complete at least 15 hours of ACRP-approved continuing education courses within the past three years.

The CCRP exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions covering topics such as Good Clinical Practice, research design and methodology, data management and analysis, ethics and regulations, and project management. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost for taking the CCRP exam varies depending on whether you are an ACRP member or nonmember. For members, the cost is $395; for nonmembers it is $495. Additionally, there are fees associated with applying for certification ($50 for members/$100 for nonmembers) as well as renewal fees every three years ($50 for members/$100 for nonmembers).

3. Certified Principal Investigator (CPI)

Certified Principal Investigator (CPI) is a certification for research professionals who have the knowledge and skills necessary to lead clinical trials. The CPI certification is offered by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP), an international organization dedicated to advancing the quality, integrity, and safety of clinical research.

The CPI certification requires applicants to pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as ethical considerations in clinical research, regulatory compliance, and data management. It also requires applicants to have at least two years of experience in leading clinical trials or related activities.

It typically takes around four months to complete the application process for the CPI certification. Applicants must submit an application form along with proof of their educational qualifications and work experience. They must also pay a fee for processing their application.

The cost of obtaining the CPI certification varies depending on whether or not you are already an ACRP member. For non-members, it costs $350 USD to apply for the exam and $400 USD if you are accepted into the program. For existing ACRP members, it costs $300 USD to apply for the exam and $350 USD if you are accepted into the program.

4. Regulatory Affairs Certification (RAC)

Regulatory Affairs Certification (RAC) is a professional certification program offered by the Regulatory Affairs Professionals Society (RAPS). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in regulatory affairs. The RAC credential is one of the most widely recognized certifications in the field of regulatory affairs and is highly valued by employers.

The RAC certification process consists of two parts: an online application and an examination. The online application requires applicants to provide information about their education, work experience, and other relevant qualifications. Once the application has been approved, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as regulations, compliance, quality assurance, product development, and risk management.

The RAC exam typically takes between four and six hours to complete and can be taken either online or at a local testing center. The cost of the exam varies depending on whether it is taken online or at a testing center but generally ranges from $500-$600 USD.

In order to maintain their RAC certification, individuals must complete continuing education credits every three years. These credits can be earned through attending conferences or workshops related to regulatory affairs or completing certain courses offered by RAPS.

5. Good Clinical Practice Certification (GCP)

Good Clinical Practice (GCP) is an international ethical and scientific quality standard for designing, conducting, recording, and reporting clinical trials that involve the participation of human subjects. GCP provides a unified standard to ensure that the rights, safety, and well-being of trial subjects are protected and that the results of clinical trials are credible.

GCP certification typically takes about 8 hours to complete. It can be obtained through online courses or in-person workshops. The cost of GCP certification varies depending on the provider; however, most courses range from $200 to $500 USD.

In order to become certified in GCP, individuals must pass an exam at the end of their course or workshop. This exam tests knowledge and understanding of GCP principles and guidelines as outlined by the International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH). Once individuals have passed this exam they will receive a certificate indicating their successful completion of GCP training.

6. Clinical Trials Management System Certification (CTMS)

Clinical Trials Management System Certification (CTMS) is an internationally recognized certification program for clinical trial professionals. The certification is designed to validate the knowledge and skills of clinical trial professionals who are responsible for managing the operational aspects of clinical trials. It is a comprehensive certification program that covers topics such as project management, regulatory compliance, data management, budgeting and cost control, risk management, and quality assurance.

The CTMS certification is offered by the Clinical Trials Professional Society (CTPS). It takes approximately three months to complete the CTMS certification program. To get certified, applicants must pass an online exam that consists of multiple choice questions covering all aspects of clinical trials management. The cost of the exam varies depending on the country in which it is taken; typically it costs around $400 USD. After successfully passing the exam, applicants receive their CTMS certification from the CTPS.

7. International Conference on Harmonisation Good Clinical Practice Certification (ICH-GCP)

The International Conference on Harmonisation Good Clinical Practice Certification (ICH-GCP) is an internationally recognized certification program designed to promote the protection of human subjects in clinical research and to ensure that the data generated from such research is reliable and valid. ICH-GCP certification is a requirement for any organization involved in conducting clinical trials worldwide, including pharmaceutical companies, medical device manufacturers, contract research organizations (CROs), and academic institutions.

The ICH-GCP certification process typically takes between six and eight weeks to complete. To get certified, organizations must demonstrate their understanding of the principles and practices outlined in the ICH GCP guidelines by completing a series of online courses or attending an instructor-led training session. Organizations must also provide evidence that they have implemented systems to ensure compliance with the guidelines. Once all requirements have been met, organizations can apply for certification from an accredited certifying body such as the Association for Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP).

The cost of obtaining ICH-GCP certification varies depending on the certifying body chosen and whether an organization opts for online or instructor-led training. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,500-$2,000 per person for online training and up to $3,500 per person for instructor-led training. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with applying for certification from a certifying body such as ACRP.

8. Association of Clinical Research Professionals Certification (ACRP)

The Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize and promote the highest standards of clinical research professionalism. It is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates a commitment to quality and excellence in the field of clinical research.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements, successfully pass an exam, and abide by ACRP's Code of Ethics. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as Good Clinical Practice (GCP), regulatory affairs, clinical trial management, data management, and ethics. It typically takes about four hours to complete.

The cost for certification varies depending on the type of membership chosen. For non-members, it costs $595 for the first attempt at the exam; subsequent attempts are $395 each. For members, it costs $395 for the first attempt at the exam; subsequent attempts are $295 each.

In order to get certified, applicants must submit an application form along with proof of their educational background and relevant work experience. Once approved, they will be sent an authorization code that allows them to register for the exam online or by mail. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their ACRP Certification within 4-6 weeks.

9. Society of Clinical Research Associates Certification (SOCRA)

The Society of Clinical Research Associates (SOCRA) Certification is a voluntary certification program that provides recognition to individuals who are knowledgeable and experienced in clinical research. The certification is available to those who have at least two years of experience in the field, and it is designed to demonstrate an individual’s commitment to professional excellence and ethical standards.

In order to obtain SOCRA certification, applicants must first complete a SOCRA-approved educational program. This can be done through an accredited college or university, or through a SOCRA-approved provider. Once the educational requirements are met, applicants must pass the SOCRA Certification Exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as Good Clinical Practice (GCP), regulatory compliance, ethics and research administration. The exam typically takes about three hours to complete and can be taken online or at designated testing centers.

Once the exam is passed, applicants must submit an application for certification along with proof of their education and experience in the field. Upon approval of their application, applicants will receive their SOCRA certification which is valid for five years.

The cost for obtaining SOCRA certification varies depending on the type of education completed prior to taking the exam. For those completing a college degree program, costs range from $1,000-$2,500; for those completing a non-degree program through a SOCRA-approved provider, costs range from $400-$800; and for those taking only the exam without any prior education requirement, costs range from $300-$400.

10. American Board of Bioanalysis Certification in Clinical Research Coordination and Management (ABCCRM).

The American Board of Bioanalysis Certification in Clinical Research Coordination and Management (ABCCRM) is a certification program designed to recognize the specialized knowledge and skills required for clinical research coordination and management. This certification is offered by the American Board of Bioanalysis (ABB), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting excellence in bioanalytical science.

The ABCCRM credential requires successful completion of an examination that tests the candidate’s knowledge and understanding of clinical research coordination and management principles, practices, and procedures. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as study design, protocol development, data collection, regulatory compliance, budgeting, and project management.

To be eligible for the ABCCRM certification exam, applicants must have at least two years of full-time experience in clinical research coordination or management. Additionally, applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university.

The ABCCRM exam is offered twice per year at various locations throughout the United States. The cost of taking the exam is $350 USD. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your ABCCRM certification which is valid for five years from the date it was issued.

Do You Really Need a Research Coordinator Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a research coordinator certificate to become a research coordinator. However, having a certificate may be beneficial for your career in the field of research coordination. A certificate can demonstrate to employers that you have a strong understanding of the principles and practices involved in coordinating research projects. It also demonstrates that you have taken the time to learn about the job and have invested in yourself as a professional.

Having a research coordinator certificate could open up more opportunities for you as well. For instance, if you want to work at an academic institution or other organization that conducts clinical trials or scientific research, having a certification could give you an advantage when applying for jobs. Additionally, it could help you stand out from other applicants who do not possess the same qualifications. Finally, having this certification will give you confidence in your ability to successfully coordinate research projects.

In conclusion, while it is not necessary to have a research coordinator certificate to become a research coordinator, it can be beneficial for advancing your career in this field and demonstrating your commitment to learning more about the profession and developing your skillset.

Related: Research Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Research Coordinator Certifications

1. What types of certifications are available for research coordinators?

Answer: There are several certifications available for research coordinators, including the Certified Clinical Research Coordinator (CCRC), Certified Principal Investigator (CPI), and Certified Research Administrator (CRA).

2. How do I become a certified research coordinator?

Answer: To become a certified research coordinator, you must first have experience in clinical research and then complete the required training and/or exams from an accredited organization. Once you have completed the requirements, you will receive your certification.

3. What is the difference between a CCRC and CPI certification?

Answer: A CCRC certification is specifically for clinical research coordinators who work on clinical trials with human subjects, while a CPI certification is for principal investigators who lead teams of researchers conducting clinical trials with human subjects.

4. Are there any online courses that can help prepare me to become a certified research coordinator?

Answer: Yes, there are many online courses available that can help prepare you to become a certified research coordinator. These courses typically include topics such as Good Clinical Practices (GCPs), data management and analysis, regulatory affairs, and project management.

5. Do I need to recertify my certification after a certain period of time?

Answer: Yes, most certifications must be renewed every two to five years in order to remain valid. Renewal typically involves completing continuing education courses or passing an exam related to your certification area.