The Consortium of Academic Programs in Clinical Research (CoAPCR) facilitates the development of high-quality educational programs encompassing all areas of clinical research that are based in academic credit-granting institutions.

Recent Articles & Resources

 

Supporting Members

CoAPCR's Mission

 

Core Competencies and Accreditation

One of the founding priorities of COAPCR was the development of an accreditation process for academic programs in clinical research. In 2013, COAPCR sponsored the creation of a Committee on Accreditation of Academic Programs in Clinical Research (CAAPCR). The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) was chosen as the umbrella accreditation body to house CAAPCR and the Standards and Guidelines for our accreditation process were ultimately approved by CAAHEP in April, 2017. CAAPCR began accepting Requests for Accreditation Services in September, 2017. In September, CAAHEP approved the accreditation of the first three academic programs in clinical research. Programs interested in the requirements and processes required for accreditation should review the CAAPCR website. Questions and suggestions should be forwarded to Stephen Sonstein, Chair, CAAPCR at caapcr@gmail.org.

CoAPCR/JTF Core Competency Domains

The curriculum requirements for academic programs in clinical research are based upon the Core Competency Framework developed by the Joint Task Force for Clinical Trial Competency (JTF). There are 8 competency domains:

  • Scientific Concepts and Research Design
  • Ethical and Participant Safety Considerations
  • Investigational Products Development and Regulation
  • Clinical Study Operations (GCP™s)
  • Study and Site Management
  • Data Management and Informatics
  • Leadership and Professionalism
  • Communications and Teamwork

Within the 8 Domains are 48 specific core competencies which have been expressed at Fundamental, Skilled and Advanced levels. For further information, go to the JTF Framework website.