C-RAM Study Program

The CRA is a credential offered by the Research Administrators Certification Council (RACC). Earning the Certified Research Administration (CRA) certification means that one has met the required qualifications and passed an exam on a wide body of knowledge in research administration, including project development and administration; legal requirements and sponsor interface; financial management; and general management.

The 2023 Fall Study Group is piloting a self-paced model with a 1-hour weekly recording on content, then weekly 30 minute collaboration and test prep sessions for 12 weeks from August 14th- October 30th.

Learn more about the CRA, including application requirements, testing format/sites, recertification requirements, and required fees on the RACC website.

Applicant Requirements

1.) The CRA exam is rigorous. Applicants must be willing to study several hours/week outside the guided study sessions.

2.) An email containing applicant’s Name (first & last), Department/Unit , and Institution, must be submitted to OSP_info@colostate.edu.

3.) Priority will be given to C-RAM applicants eligible to sit for the CRA exam at the time of application. Eligibility requirements include:

• Bachelor’s degree and three (3) years of professional experience in research or sponsored programs administration either in a sponsoring or recipient organization or the equivalent in a self-funded organization; – OR-
• An Associate’s degree and five (5) years o professional experience in research or sponsored programs administration either in a sponsoring or recipient organization or the equivalent in a self-funded organization; – OR-
• No degree and six (6) years of professional experience in research or sponsored programs administration either in a sponsoring or recipient organization or the equivalent in a self-funded organization (this option requires completion of a Petition Application from the RACC).