Exploring the CRA, CPRA, CFRA ORED Seminar Series November 21, 2016
Today s Agenda
Overview Research Administrators Certification Council (RACC) formed in 1993 http://www.cra-cert.org Certifications through RACC Certified Research Administrator (CRA) Certified Pre-award Research Administrator (CPRA) Certified Financial Research Administrator (CFRA)
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: http://www.cra-cert.org/whyhireacra.html
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
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)
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
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
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
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
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
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
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...
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
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
Jennifer Easley, CMA, CRA, CFRA Director Office of Sponsored Projects 133 Etheredge Hall, Mail Stop 9564 662-325-3751 jeasley@osp.msstate.edu www.osp.msstate.edu