Exploring the CRA, CPRA, CFRA ORED Seminar Series November 21, 2016

Transcription

1 Exploring the CRA, CPRA, CFRA ORED Seminar Series November 21, 2016

2 Today s Agenda

3 Overview Research Administrators Certification Council (RACC) formed in Certifications through RACC Certified Research Administrator (CRA) Certified Pre-award Research Administrator (CPRA) Certified Financial Research Administrator (CFRA)

4 Benefits of Certification Provides documented evidence that an individual has been examined by an independent professional organization and found to have the basic knowledge essential to fulfill the responsibilities of a research or sponsored programs administrator. Indicates that an individual has taken the time and effort, beyond just job experience, to learn the Body of Knowledge, thus exhibiting a significant commitment to working in this profession. Provides credibility for your organization, both internally and externally. Source:

5 Other Benefits Knowledge/Skills Development Build credibility of MSU s research capacity Confidence Demonstrate Expertise Professional Recognition Personal Satisfaction Increased opportunities for employment Advancement opportunities Serve as a role model to others

6 Eligibility Requirements Bachelor degree and 3 years of professional experience in research administration OR Associate Degree and 5 years of professional experience in research administration OR 6 years of professional research administration experience (Must petition RACC)

7 Certified Research Administrator (CRA) 250 Multiple Choice, 4 hour time limit Content: 30% - Project Development & Administration 30% - Legal Requirements & Sponsor Interface 25% - Financial Management 15% - General Management Exam Dates: May 6-20, 2017; Application Deadline 3/31/17 November 4-18, 2017; Application Deadline 10/2/17

8 Certified Pre-Award Research Administrator (CPRA) 250 Multiple Choice, 4 hour time limit Content: 25% - Research Partnership & Funding 30% - Project Development & Proposal Submission 30% - Budget Design & Development 15% - Awards & Pre-Award Compliance Considerations Exam Dates: February 11-25, 2017; Application Deadline 1/17/17 August 12-26, 2017; Application Deadline 6/30/17

9 Certified Financial Research Administrator (CFRA) 250 Multiple Choice, 4 hour time limit Content: 25% - Governing Framework 35% - Project Costs 25% - Reporting 15% - Fiscal Compliance Exam Dates: March 11-25, 2017; Application Deadline 2/1/17 September 9-23, 2017; Application Deadline 8/1/17

10 Exam Registration Registration deadline approximately 5-6 weeks prior to each testing period Two testing periods per year for each exam Two week testing period Select testing center, date, and time upon registration Cost Exam Fee: $375 (non-refundable; fee for transfer) Practice Exam available for $60 via RACC

11 The Day of the Exam ID and proof of registration required at site All electronic format no personal belongings Up to 4 hours to complete 250 questions Generally 70% passing score (175 questions correct) You CAN skip and return to questions user-friendly format

12 Reporting of Results Approximately 3 weeks from last test date by mail Breakdown of correct/incorrect answers within knowledge categories Certificate and pin for successful candidates

13 Best Practices/Tips Don t assume anything! Use the resources available to you. Allow plenty of time. Resist the urge to be overwhelmed. Don t be discouraged! More...

14 Resources Available Practice Tests (via RACC, etc.) Body of Knowledge Quizlet Virginia Tech CRA Study Team MSU OSP (and ORED umbrella unit websites) NCURA/SRA RACC Structured Review Programs RESADM-L listserv CRA-a-Day Agency websites Other CRAs, CPRAs, CFRAs

15 Recertification Every 5 years- $195 fee Must describe continued participation in research administration 80 contact hours List of educational activities (presentations given or participated in) 3 questions for future use on the exam

16 Jennifer Easley, CMA, CRA, CFRA Director Office of Sponsored Projects 133 Etheredge Hall, Mail Stop