Top 11 Research Nurse Certifications

Certifications are important for research nurses in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and expertise that employers are looking for. Certifications provide assurance to employers that research nurses have the necessary skills and qualifications to effectively carry out their duties. They also show that research nurses have taken the initiative to learn more about their field and stay up-to-date on the latest trends, technologies, and best practices. Certification can also help research nurses stand out from other candidates in a competitive job market.

The purpose of this article is to review the most beneficial certifications for Research Nurses and discuss how they can advance a research nurse's career.

What are Research Nurse Certifications?

Research nurse certification is a certification program available to registered nurses who have specialized training and experience in research. This certification program demonstrates that the nurse has the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to conduct research safely and ethically. With this certification, research nurses are able to provide quality patient care while also properly conducting research activities.

Research nurse certification can help by providing recognition for research nurses who demonstrate a commitment to their profession and the highest standards of practice. It also provides an opportunity for advancement in the field of research nursing. Additionally, it may provide employers with a way to identify qualified individuals for positions related to research nursing. Finally, it serves as a validation of the expertise and dedication of those certified as research nurses.

Pro Tip: Research Nurse Certification is a great way to demonstrate your commitment to the profession and increase your knowledge of research methods and protocols. Make sure you are familiar with the certification requirements before applying, as they vary depending on the organization offering the certification. Additionally, be sure to take advantage of any study materials or resources offered by the certifying organization to help you prepare for the exam.

Related: What does a Research Nurse do?

Top 11 Research Nurse Certifications

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

1. Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP)

The Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate the highest level of knowledge and expertise in clinical research. The CCRP credential is administered by the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SOCRA).

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least two years of full-time clinical research experience or its equivalent. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as Good Clinical Practices, regulatory affairs, study design, data management and analysis, and ethics.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the CCRP certification process. During this time, applicants are required to complete a series of courses and workshops offered by SOCRA or an approved provider. Upon completion of the courses and workshops, applicants will be eligible to take the CCRP exam.

The cost for the CCRP certification process varies depending on whether you are a SOCRA member or non-member. For SOCRA members, the cost is $495 for the initial application fee plus $300 for each additional course or workshop taken. For non-members, there is an additional $100 application fee plus $400 for each additional course or workshop taken.

In addition to these fees, there may also be other costs associated with taking the CCRP exam such as travel expenses and lodging if you choose to take it at a testing center outside your local area.

2. Certified Clinical Research Coordinator (CCRC)

A Certified Clinical Research Coordinator (CCRC) is a professional who works in the field of clinical research and is responsible for the coordination and management of clinical trials. The CCRC certification is offered by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) and requires candidates to have at least two years of experience in clinical research, as well as a minimum of 80 hours of continuing education credits.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to prepare for the exam, depending on your background knowledge and experience. To get started, you will need to register with ACRP and pay the registration fee. After that, you can begin studying for the exam using ACRP's study materials and resources. You will also need to accumulate 80 hours of continuing education credits prior to taking the exam.

The cost of registering for the CCRC certification exam is $595 USD. This fee covers access to all study materials, practice exams, and other resources needed to prepare for the exam.

3. Certified Clinical Research Associate (CCRA)

A Certified Clinical Research Associate (CCRA) is a professional certification that demonstrates expertise in the field of clinical research. It is awarded by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) and is recognized as a standard of excellence in the clinical research industry.

The CCRA certification requires applicants to have at least two years of full-time clinical research experience, or equivalent part-time experience, within the past five years. Candidates must also pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as Good Clinical Practices, regulatory requirements, and ethics.

To get certified as a CCRA, applicants must first register for the ACRP Certification Program. This can be done online or by mail. Once registered, applicants must submit an application packet that includes proof of their clinical research experience and payment of applicable fees. After submitting the application packet, applicants must take and pass the ACRP Certification Exam within one year from the date of registration.

The cost for registering for the ACRP Certification Program is $100 USD plus applicable taxes and fees. The cost for taking the ACRP Certification Exam is $495 USD plus applicable taxes and fees.

4. Certified Principal Investigator (CPI)

Certified Principal Investigator (CPI) is a certification that recognizes the professional qualifications of individuals who are responsible for the design, conduct and oversight of clinical trials. This certification is designed to ensure that clinical trials are conducted in an ethical and responsible manner.

It typically takes between three to six months to get Certified Principal Investigator (CPI) certification. The process involves completing an application, passing an exam, and submitting letters of recommendation from two qualified professionals. Applicants must also have at least five years of experience in clinical research or related fields.

In order to get Certified Principal Investigator (CPI) certification, applicants must first submit their application online through the Clinical Research Professionals Certification Board website. After submitting the application, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to take the exam. Once they pass the exam, they will be required to submit two letters of recommendation from two qualified professionals within their field.

The cost for Certified Principal Investigator (CPI) certification is $495 USD for members of the Clinical Research Professionals Certification Board and $595 USD for non-members.

5. Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA)

Registered Nurse First Assistants (RNFA) are advanced practice nurses who provide intraoperative care to patients during surgical procedures. They are responsible for providing direct patient care, assisting the surgeon with technical tasks, and helping to ensure a safe and successful outcome for the patient.

To become an RNFA, you must first obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from an accredited college or university. After completing your BSN, you will need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). Once you have passed the NCLEX-RN, you can apply for certification as an RNFA through the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA).

The AANA offers two different pathways for becoming an RNFA: a traditional pathway and an accelerated pathway. The traditional pathway requires completion of a course in Advanced Surgical Nursing and at least one year of clinical experience as a Registered Nurse in a surgical setting. The accelerated pathway requires completion of an approved RNFA program and at least one year of clinical experience as a Registered Nurse in a surgical setting.

The cost of becoming an RNFA varies depending on which pathway you choose and where you take your courses. Generally speaking, it can range from $3,000-$10,000 for tuition alone. Additionally, there may be other costs associated with obtaining certification such as exam fees and membership dues.

6. Certified Tumor Registrar (CTR)

A Certified Tumor Registrar (CTR) is a healthcare professional who specializes in the collection, management, and analysis of data related to cancer patients. CTRs are responsible for collecting and maintaining data on patient demographics, diagnosis, treatment, follow-up care, and outcomes. They use this data to inform research studies and to provide quality assurance in cancer care.

It typically takes two years of full-time study to become a CTR. The program includes courses in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, cancer staging systems, coding systems, epidemiology, statistics, research methodology and other topics related to cancer registration. After completing the program requirements and passing an exam administered by the National Cancer Registrars Association (NCRA), individuals can earn the CTR credential.

To become a Certified Tumor Registrar (CTR), you must first complete an accredited program from an approved college or university that offers a degree or certificate in tumor registry technology. You must also pass the NCRA’s certification exam with a score of at least 70%. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your CTR certification from NCRA.

The cost of becoming a Certified Tumor Registrar varies depending on the specific college or university you attend for your education. Generally speaking however, tuition costs range from $5,000 to $20,000 depending on the length of your program and any additional fees associated with it.

7. Certified Pediatric Oncology Nurse (CPON)

Certified Pediatric Oncology Nurse (CPON) is a certification program offered by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC) to recognize nurses who specialize in providing care for children with cancer. The CPON certification is designed to demonstrate the nurse’s knowledge and experience in pediatric oncology nursing practice.

It typically takes 6-9 months to complete the CPON certification process. To be eligible for the exam, nurses must have an active RN license and at least two years of clinical practice within the past four years as a registered nurse in pediatric oncology nursing.

To obtain the CPON certification, nurses must first apply for and pass the ONCC exam. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as symptom management, psychosocial care, care coordination, family support, and more. After passing the exam, nurses must also complete an application form and submit it to ONCC along with proof of their RN license and two years of clinical experience in pediatric oncology nursing.

The cost of taking the CPON exam is $385 for ONCC members or $485 for non-members. Once certified, nurses are required to renew their certification every three years by completing 45 continuing education hours related to pediatric oncology nursing practice.

8. Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP)

The Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP) is a certification offered by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC). This certification is designed to recognize advanced practice nurses who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of oncology. The AOCNP credential demonstrates that an individual has met rigorous standards for clinical practice, education, and experience in oncology nursing.

It typically takes about one year to complete the requirements for the AOCNP certification. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least two years of full-time clinical practice as an advanced practice nurse in oncology and hold a valid registered nurse license. In addition, applicants must also complete at least 500 hours of direct patient care in oncology within the last three years.

To obtain the AOCNP certification, candidates must pass an exam administered by ONCC. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as cancer biology, pharmacology, symptom management, psychosocial issues, treatment modalities, and professional issues. Candidates have four hours to complete the exam.

The cost of taking the AOCNP exam varies depending on whether or not you are an ONCC member. For non-members, the cost is $395; for members it is $295. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam such as registration fees or travel costs if you need to take it at a testing center outside your area.

9. Clinical Trials Management Certification Program (CTMCP)

The Clinical Trials Management Certification Program (CTMCP) is a comprehensive program designed to provide individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to become certified clinical trials managers. The program is offered by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP). It consists of four courses: Introduction to Clinical Trial Management, Designing and Managing Clinical Trials, Monitoring and Closing Out Clinical Trials, and Quality Assurance in Clinical Trials. Each course requires approximately 40 hours of study time.

To get the CTMCP certification, applicants must complete all four courses and pass an online examination with a score of 80% or higher. The cost for the certification program varies depending on the number of courses taken but typically ranges from $1,000 - $2,500 USD. After successful completion of the program, applicants will receive a certificate from ACRP validating their expertise as a certified clinical trials manager.

10. National Institutes of Health Office of Human Subjects Research Certification Program

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Human Subjects Research Certification Program is a program designed to ensure that research conducted with human subjects is conducted in an ethical manner. The program requires researchers to complete a training course and obtain certification from the NIH before conducting any research involving human subjects.

The training course consists of two parts: 1) an online tutorial, and 2) an in-person workshop. The online tutorial covers topics such as ethical principles, informed consent, data protection, and other important aspects of conducting research with human subjects. The in-person workshop provides additional instruction on how to apply these principles when designing and conducting research studies.

It typically takes about 8 hours to complete the training course and obtain certification from the NIH. However, this may vary depending on the individual's prior knowledge and experience with research involving human subjects.

To get certified by the NIH Office of Human Subjects Research Certification Program, individuals must first register for the online tutorial at https://www.training.nih.gov/programs/ohsrc_certification_program/. After completing the tutorial, individuals must attend an in-person workshop at one of several locations around the country (https://www.training.nih.gov/workshops). Once both components have been completed successfully, individuals will receive their certification from the NIH Office of Human Subjects Research Certification Program.

The cost for taking part in this program varies depending on location and other factors, but typically ranges from $250-$400 USD per person for both components combined (online tutorial + in-person workshop).

11. American Association of Critical Care Nurses Clinical Trials Network Certification Program

The American Association of Critical Care Nurses Clinical Trials Network Certification Program is a voluntary certification program designed to recognize nurses who have achieved advanced knowledge and skills in clinical trials research. It is the only certification program in the United States that focuses exclusively on clinical trials research.

The program consists of two parts: a self-study course and an exam. The self-study course covers topics such as ethical considerations, study design, data management, and regulatory requirements for conducting clinical trials. The exam tests the nurse’s knowledge of these topics. The exam can be taken either online or at a Pearson VUE test center.

It typically takes about 6 months to complete the program and earn the certification. To get started, nurses must first purchase the self-study course from AACN's website for $200 USD. Once they have completed the course, they can register to take the exam by paying an additional $300 USD fee.

Once a nurse has successfully passed the exam, they will receive their AACN Clinical Trials Network Certification, which is valid for 3 years before it needs to be renewed. In order to renew their certification, nurses must complete continuing education credits related to clinical trials research every three years and pay a renewal fee of $125 USD.

Do You Really Need a Research Nurse Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's career goals. If a person is interested in working as a research nurse, then obtaining a research nurse certificate may be beneficial. This certificate can provide evidence of one's knowledge and skills in research nursing. It can also demonstrate that the individual has taken the necessary steps to become qualified for such a position.

On the other hand, if the individual is simply looking for a job in nursing and does not have any specific interest in research nursing, then a research nurse certificate may not be necessary. In fact, it may even be seen as an unnecessary expense or burden if there are no plans to pursue such a career path.

Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide if obtaining a research nurse certificate is worth their time and money. Those who are dedicated to becoming a research nurse should definitely consider pursuing this certification, as it can open up many opportunities and help them stand out from other applicants in their field.

Related: Research Nurse Resume Examples

FAQs About Research Nurse Certifications

1. What certifications are available for research nurses?

Answer: The most common certification for research nurses is the Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) certification offered by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP). Other certifications include Certified Research Coordinator (CRC) and Clinical Research Associate (CRA).

2. How do I become certified as a research nurse?

Answer: To become certified as a research nurse, you must meet the eligibility requirements set by the certifying body, complete an approved training program, and pass an exam.

3. How long does it take to become certified as a research nurse?

Answer: It typically takes about six months to complete the necessary training and obtain certification as a research nurse. However, this timeline can vary depending on your experience level and availability of training courses.

4. How much does it cost to get certified as a research nurse?

Answer: The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the certifying body and type of certification sought. Generally, fees range from $500-$2,000 USD.

5. What are the benefits of becoming a certified research nurse?

Answer: Becoming a certified research nurse demonstrates expertise in clinical trial operations and enhances credibility among peers and employers alike. Additionally, many organizations offer higher salaries or promotions to employees who hold certifications in their field.