🏅 Nationally Certified Clinical Research Director™ (NCCRD™)
The Nationally Certified Clinical Research Director™ (NCCRD™) is the highest-level credential awarded by the National Clinical Research Certification Association™ (NCRCA™), recognizing executive-level leadership, strategic oversight, and regulatory excellence in clinical research management.
NCCRD™-certified professionals are responsible for directing all aspects of clinical trial operations across research sites, institutions, or organizations. This includes protocol development oversight, regulatory strategy, financial and operational leadership, sponsor relations, and ensuring full compliance with global research standards.
âś… Key Competencies:
- Executive leadership of clinical research programs
- Oversight of regulatory, ethical, and financial compliance
- Strategic planning and protocol implementation
- Sponsor and CRO relationship management
- Supervision of multi-site operations and cross-functional teams
- Quality assurance and audit preparedness
đź“Ś Ideal Candidates:
- Senior clinical research professionals and executives
- Clinical research directors, program managers, and site owners
- Individuals overseeing multi-site, high-impact clinical trial operations
The NCCRD credential affirms the highest level of expertise, responsibility, and leadership in the field of clinical research.
NCRCA Credential Overview – NCCRD Nationally Certified Clinical Research Director
NCCRD – Nationally Certified Clinical Research Director
Credential Description
A national-level certification for senior professionals responsible for directing and supervising clinical research departments or programs.
Job Analysis
– Program Leadership: Oversee research strategy and site development – Compliance Monitoring: Ensure protocol, legal, and ethical standards
– Sponsor/Stakeholder Engagement: Build strategic relationships
– Policy Development: Create internal SOPs and research policies
Eligibility Requirements
– Employed by NCRCA-accredited partner employer
– OR complete 1-Day National Certification Bridge Program – OR attend an NCRCA-hosted Certification Conference
Exam Format
100 multiple-choice questions
Exam Content Breakdown
– Research Program Development – 30%
– Strategic Oversight & Leadership – 25%
– Regulatory & Ethical Governance – 20%
– Stakeholder Collaboration – 15%
– Quality Assurance & Risk Management – 10%
Initial Certification Fee
$398
Annual Maintenance Fee
$398
Renewal Requirements
– 500 hours verified employment
NCRCA Credential Overview – NCCRD Nationally Certified Clinical Research Director
– 10 CE hours related to the role
– $398 renewal fee submitted before expiration