1. Certification by the Association of
Clinical Research Professionals
By Mary Pat Higley

2. Introduction
• A medical consultant and data analyst based in Newport
Beach, California, Mary Pat Higley is also an independent
clinical research associate with more than 20 years of
experience in the field. Mary Pat Higley is a member of the
Association of Clinical Research Professionals.
Established in 1976, the nonprofit Association of Clinical
Research Professionals is dedicated to promoting excellence
in clinical research and acts as an industry advocate, resource,
and discussion forum. The Washington, DC-based
organization, which has over 13,000 members in 70 countries,
is also committed to providing continuing professional
development courses and certification for clinical research
associates, principal investigators, and clinical research
coordinators.

3. Certification
• The Association’s certification programs set the
highest standards in the industry and identify those
who are professionals and leaders in the field. To
receive certification, qualified candidates must use
their knowledge and practical experience to pass an
exam in their specific area of certification. The
exams test knowledge of the guidelines issued by the
International Conference on Harmonization of
Technical Requirements for Registration of
Pharmaceuticals for Human Use, as well as
expertise in investigational product management,
protocols, safety, and trial management and trial
oversight proficiency.