Clinical Research Coordinator Reimbursements for Certification

Within the clinical research coordinator role at Michigan Medicine, professional certification is a key component of career progression in the competency and training-based framework.  This financial process defines who is responsible for support and reflects how to be reimbursed for certification requirements within the CRC series.

Reimbursement to employees for certification/certification maintenance will be the responsibility of the hiring individual (e.g., PI) or central unit (e.g., Department, Division, Center, Institute, Program, etc.) consistent with guidance set in the Procedures.

The source of funds for these expenses may include institutional funds, gift funds, or sponsored projects, as appropriate and proportional to the activity of the individual. 

Some internal U-M opportunities for certification maintenance may be available at no cost. 
 

A. Process for pursuing certification – Employee & Unit

1. Unit determines if certification is appropriate.   
   1. Is certification required for market title?
   2. Is the employee eligible? Typically, certifications require two years of clinical research experience prior to application. Please review eligibility requirements on the certifying organization’s website prior to application.
2. Unit determines if additional support is in place to help employee be successful in obtaining certification.
3. Unit provides approval to pursue certification.
4. Employee follows the certifying organization’s guidelines for application and examination.
5. Employee will collect and retain documentation of exam results (pass / fail) and provide to the CRC Advisory Board (currently through Cornerstone).

B. Process for financial coverage of the certification exam:

1. If approved to pursue certification by the unit, employees are eligible to be reimbursed for up to two attempts at certification. 
   1. Employees may pay the application and exam fees following their unit requirements for reimbursement at time expense is incurred; or,
   2. Departments may elect to directly pay the fee on behalf of the employee.
2. Subsequent attempts are the responsibility of the employee.

A. UMMS Certification Requirements Policy
B. Concur Travel & Expense
C. Association of Clinical Research Professionals
D. Society of Clinical Research Associates

Questions on this policy may be directed to the Office of Research ([email protected])

Last Reviewed Date: September 1, 2024

Approval: Executive Vice Dean for Research