Welcome to the Consortium of Academic Programs in Clinical Research
Welcome to the Consortium of Academic Programs in Clinical Research
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.
To provide a medium for communication among educators of clinical research professionals.
To encourage and support the development and maintenance of academically based clinical research educational programs to meet the needs of the clinical research community.
To foster inter-institutional articulation among educational institutions, clinical institutions, professional associations, and industry.
To initiate and/or support research and studies relating to the educational, manpower and service needs of clinical research professionals.
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.
