Clinical Research Coordinating

Frequently Asked Questions

Do the classes need to be taken consecutively?

CRC120 (Introduction to Clinical Research) is the prerequisite to other CRC classes. The rest of the classes may be taken in any order. Students who have had previous research experience may take more than one class at a time, or may take special topic elective classes upon permission from the program director.

Is there a formal process to apply for the program?

There is a formal process for application to the CRC program; however, the application is not due until a student completes CRC120. Students will be contacted by the program director within the first half of the CRC120 semester to ensure that the applications are complete, and to plan the student’s future CRC course of study.

Is a professional certification for students completing the certificate or Associate of Applied Science available?

Yes, many organizations focus on clinical research coordinator certification, however, certification or licensure is not currently required. GateWay’s CRC courses prepare eligible students to sit for the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SoCRA) or Association of Clinical Research Professional's (ACRP) certification exams.

Do I need to be certified to be a clinical research professional?

No, but certification enhances your credibility and salary expectation.

How long does it take to complete the four courses in the certificate program?

It's possible for a student to complete all courses within a 12 month time period. Courses are scheduled each semester so that students may move through the program at their own pace.

Where do I purchase the textbooks for the program?

A set of 4 soft cover textbooks are used for the core/certificate courses and need to be purchased as a set at the beginning of CRC120. Several other textbooks will also need to be purchased as the student moves through the courses. Students may purchase these books on campus at the GateWay bookstore or online.

Is there credit available for prior work experience?

There is no provision for credit for prior work experience.

Is Financial Aid available?

The Financial Aid Office has many different options, scholarships, grants, etc. for eligible students. Call (602) 286-8300 to inquire.

Currently, a small Clinical Research Program scholarship fund exists that may defer some tuition or book costs for students meeting the federal financial aid eligibility requirements. A separate application form can be obtained from the program director.

Where are the classes located?

CRC Hybrid classroom courses will generally be held in the Center for Health Careers Education Building at GWCC at 108 N 40th St., Phoenix, Arizona. Classes meet 1-2 times per week for 4 hours per class. Each course is scheduled on a different night, giving students the option to take two CRC courses each semester. If the classroom location is not indicated on the registration form from the Admissions Office, it will be posted in the building lobby on the first night of class.

All CRC classes are also offered in an online format. These classes are not synchronous, students are required to complete assignments by a specific date and time, but are not required to be online at any specific date or time.