Certified Research Administrator (CRA) Study and Support Group at Boston University – Informational Session

We are excited to announce the inaugural Certified Research Administrator (CRA) Study and Support Group at Boston University.

The Research Administrators Certification Council (RACC) formed in 1993 as an independent non-profit organization. RACC certifies that an individual, through experience and testing, has the fundamental knowledge necessary to be a professional research or sponsored programs administrator and has earned the designation of CRA after passing the exam.

Boston University currently has 14 active CRAs. For an institution of our size and professional knowledge we collectively have, we would like to increase this number.

Why should I join this study and support group?

BU would like to encourage the development of more CRAs but standardized tests like this are often intimidating for most people. By creating a cohort of individuals with a shared goal, we hope to remove the pressure of the exam and the stigma of failure if you don’t pass. Committing to the study group and taking the exam is an achievement, even if you don’t pass the first time.

We hope the study and support group will also offer the following benefits:

  • Shared Learning: You’ll gain new insights and knowledge from both the structured study and from the experiences of others in the group.
  • Emotional Support: Being part of a support group can provide a sense of community and understanding, especially if you’re dealing with challenges that others have faced too.
  • Motivation and Accountability: Regular meetings and interactions with group members can help keep you on track with your goals and commitments.
  • Networking: You can build valuable connections with like-minded individuals who share your interests or experiences.
  • Diverse Perspectives: Engaging with a group allows you to see issues from different viewpoints, enriching your understanding and problem-solving skills.

Why should I become certified?

Earning the designation of Certified Research Administrator (CRA) signifies that an individual has met the requirements of the Research Administrators Certification Council’s (RACC) eligibility requirements and has demonstrated a level of knowledge necessary for a person to be a professional research administrator.

The benefits of certification are many:

  • Professional recognition
  • Personal satisfaction
  • An indicator of expertise
  • Increased opportunities for employment
  • Advancement opportunities
  • Increased credibility with customers
  • Serve as role model to others

CRA Exam Eligibility Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree and 3 years of professional experience in research administration
  • Associate’s degree and 5 years of professional experience in research administration
  • High school diploma/GED and 6 years of professional experience in research administration

Are you interested? Please complete this online form to learn more.

Once you register, you will receive a Zoom link for an informational session on Thursday, January 23, 2025 at 2:00 pm.

The first BU cohort will officially register for the study session in February 2025 to prepare for the May 2025 exam. We will send a follow-up email after the informational session to confirm who is committed to joining the study group. We hope to see you there!

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