Program Overview

The SOCRA Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) program is your gateway to excellence in clinical research. Elevate your career with our internationally recognized certification, tailored for professionals dedicated to upholding the highest standards in the field. Join a community committed to ethical practices, continuous learning, and advancing global health. 


Purpose

The Society of Clinical Research Associates (SOCRA) established the Certification Program for Clinical Research Professionals in order to create an internationally accepted standard of knowledge, education, and experience by which clinical research professionals will be recognized by the clinical research community. Those individuals so recognized may use the "Certified Clinical Research Professional" or "CCRP® " designation.


Path to Certification

CCRP certification is awarded upon meeting two criteria: a successful written application and a passing CCRP examination score. The benefits of obtaining certification are numerous. It not only validates knowledge, skills, and abilities but also enhances credibility and peer recognition. Career advancement and increased earning potential become tangible outcomes, reflecting a commitment to standards, compliance, and integrity.


Scope and Standards of Practice 

The standards upon which this certification program is based have been set forth by SOCRA to promote recognition and continuing excellence in the ethical conduct of clinical trials.  It is the goal of SOCRA to encourage members, and assure the competency of certified members, in their knowledge, understanding, and application of the conduct of clinical investigations involving humans in accordance with the ICH Guidelines, the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, and the ethical principles that guide clinical research. Members are expected to adhere to national, state, local and provincial regulations and to international guidelines published by the International Conference for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Registration of Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) and all applicable federal, state and local laws and policies.  

Standards of Practice include an understanding of and application of basic concepts of Good Clinical (Research) Practice, including:


Certification Exam

The SOCRA Certification Examination is offered in two formats: paper and pencil (at SOCRA sponsored sites), and computer based (at Prometric testing centers or through Home Proctoring).

SOCRA Sponsored Sites: Paper and Pencil

  • Hosted exams offered in various location throughout the US and Canada.
  • Visit the paper and pencil exam schedule for dates and locations.
  • A complete application must be received by the deadline date as stated on the examination schedule.
  • Score reports mailed to you in 4-6 weeks after exam.

Computer Based Testing: Testing Centers and Remote Proctoring 

  • Offered at Prometric testing centers throughout the world or through Home Proctoring 
  • Click here for a list of test centers.
  • Allow 2-4 weeks for application processing. 
  • Once application is approved, schedule exam at a testing center.  Exam sessions are available at least 6 weeks in advance.  
  • Score reports received immediately upon completion of exam. 

Candidate Handbook

For more information, please view the Candidate Handbook.


 

Summary of Certification
Activities

11,145 CCRPs (as of 12/31/2022)

Year 2022
  • 1,391 candidates took CCRP exam
  • 73% passed CCRP exam
  • 2,649 CCRPs recertified
Year 2020
  • 946 candidates took CCRP exam
  • 65% passed CCRP exam
  • 2,783 CCRPs recertified
Year 2019
  • 2,060 candidates took CCRP exam
  • 70% passed CCRP exam
  • 3,801 CCRPs recertified
Year 2018
  • 1,980 candidates took CCRP exam
  • 71% passed CCRP exam
  • 3,188 CCRPs recertified
Year 2017
  • 104 exam sites hosted
  • 2,175 candidates took CCRP exam
  • 70% passed CCRP exam
  • 2,491 CCRPs recertified
Year 2016
  • 91 exam sites hosted
  • 2,141 candidates took CCRP exam
  • 71% passed CCRP exam
  • 2,421CCRPs recertified