Do you feel that candidates who hold a CRA title should also hold a specific CRA Certification? I am often asked this question by both candidates and hiring managers. It is a terrific question, and quite honestly, I can say that to be a CRA within our industry, certification isn’t absolutely necessary. 

But is it helpful? 

As a CRA you might be wondering, “If a certification isn’t required, why should I bother with it?” Let’s discuss some details that can help you decide if you want to commit to obtaining a CRA certification. 

The Benefits of Earning a CRA Certification

According to the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP), certified professionals say that the achievement of their certification has resulted in better employment options, increased job responsibilities, and expanded advancement opportunities. 

From my ‘recruiting chair’, I can confirm that hiring managers have more confidence in the abilities of candidates who hold CRA certification from accredited organizations. Here are some details as to why. 

CRA Certifications from accredited organizations indicate expertise. 

In a recent blog post, Glenda Guest (RQAP-GCP, CCRA, ACRP-MDP, FACRP, and a member of The Academy Board of Trustees overseeing ACRP Certification exam processes and policies) stated that ‘certifications are usually recognized within their respective industries and can indicate a higher level of expertise and competence than a simple certificate…’

She also stated that ‘…certification denotes in-depth knowledge across a range of clinical research competencies and many different role-based duties.’

ACRP conducted an analysis that shows certification is linked to fewer protocol deviations and more favorable outcomes from regulatory audits.

And our experience shows that when all other qualifications are similar, clients will hire a CRA with certification over one without…even if a certification isn’t required for the position. 

Experiential foundations are validated by the certifying organization. 

Most sponsors are looking for clinical research associates who already have experience in the role. To sit for a CRA certification exam from an accredited organization such as the ACRP or SOCRA, you have to be able to prove you have fully dedicated, recent experience as a Clinical Research Professional. 

This means hiring managers will have confidence that you have the hands-on working experience they are looking for. And when you couple that hands-on experience with a CRA certification that speaks to your expertise, you have just become significantly more competitive than peers without a certification.

We feel that certified professionals are typically more committed to the industry. 

Although it is rare for our CRA positions to require CRA certifications, I love working with certified professionals. Why? Because they have invested in their career. These professionals have proven they have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to safely and ethically perform clinical research in their niche.

A Word of Caution

If you do decide to become certified, be careful. There are hundreds of shell companies and second-rate organizations offering non-recognized certifications at a cost. 

Sometimes at a stupendous cost. 

Don’t waste your time and money. Do your homework. 

Is One Industry Certification Better Than The Other? 

Yes and No. 

ACRP (Association of Clinical Research Professionals) and SOCRA (Society of Clinical Research Associates) certifications are well-established, well-recognized, and accredited by known (and respected) accreditation agencies. It is hard to go wrong with either of these organizations, but there are others you can consider. Just make sure the organization offering certification has been accredited by a respected agency. 

And speaking of accreditation, some programs offer clinical research accreditations. Check out IAOCR (International Accrediting Organization for Clinical Research) as they have a fantastic program for individuals. 

In Conclusion

While holding a certification in the clinical research field is not required for most positions, it has been our experience that candidates who have earned certain certifications find it of enormous benefit. Why? Because holding an industry-recognized certification will demonstrate to hiring managers that you have industry-accepted knowledge and capabilities. 

Certification will make you a more competitive job seeker as it shows you are committed to the industry, you are passionate about your role, and have a goal of performing at a level of excellence that is at or above industry standards. 

Do you have questions on which certification or accreditation program is right for you? Feel free to reach out.

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