WHY CHOOSE THE ARMS FOUNDATION LEVEL ACCREDITATION PROGRAM?

Research management is a diverse field, with professionals coming from various backgrouns - administration, management and even research itself!  Much of the knowledge in this field is built through hands-on experience, along with workshops, conferences and networking with peers. 

The Foundation Level Accreditation Program offers a structured way to validate and enhance your skills and knowledge.  Here's why it stands out:  

  • Independent verification:  The program provides formal recognition of the competencies of individuals in research management. 

  • Peer Learning:  It offers the opportunity to learn from fellow Research Management Professionals in the field, sharing different perspectives and experiences. 

  • Networking Opportunities:  The program connects you with like-minded Research Management Professionals, fostering collaboration and exchange of ideas.  

WHO SHOULD ENROL IN THE FOUNDATION LEVEL ACCREDIATION PROGRAM?  

This program is designed for Research Management Professionals who:

  • Are new to research management/administration (less than 5 years' experience).
  • Have experience in research management but want to update or broaden their knowledge. 
  • Want to explore specific aspects of research management in more detail. 
  • Are looking to expand their expertise beyond their current specialisation. 

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

Participants will

  • Gain a solid understanding of key elements in research and the innovation system. 
  • Learn the basics of legislation affecting research. 
  • Understand the motivations and drivers of researchers and research managers. 
  • Deepen their expertise in two core areas of research management. 
  • Apply their knowledge in a practical case study, simulating real-world management challenges. 

WHAT WILL I STUDY?

The Foundation Level Accreditation Program offers a variety of modules, combining both compulsory and elective options.  You can also take these modules as standalone units for professional development.  For a full list of available moudles and their content click onto the ARMS Accreditation Foundation Level Accreditation Program Guide.  

To earn accreditation as an ARMS Accredited Research Manager (Foundation) or ARM(F), participants must: 

  • Complete five module workshops, either in-person, online or through a Learning Management System (LMS).  Three modules are compulsory, while two are elective, based on personal preferance. 
  • Pass the multiple-choice post workshop quiz for all five modules, with a minimum score of 75% required for each. 
  • Complete a case study assessment, which is offered twice a year (in May and October), providing a critical review of research managment issues. 

Successful completion of all requirements results in earning the post-nominal ARM(F). 

STEPS TO EARN 25 POINTS FOR FOUNDATION LEVEL ACCREDITATION PROGRAM

The accreditation process consists of two main steps to achieve 25 points: 

Step 1: Complete Five Learning Modules:  Earn 20 points by completing five modules - three compulsory and two elective (4 points per module).  The modules are assessed via multiple-choice quizzes, with attendance required for face-to-face or virtual sessions. 

Step 2: Complete a Cast Study Assessment: Within 12 months of completing your last module, you must submit a case study, worth 5 points.  This involves answering short-answer questions based on the case study provided by the ARMS Executive Office.

ASSESSMENT REQUIREMENTS:

To be awarded the ARM(F) designation, participants must: 

  1. Successfully complete the five modules including:
    • Two country-specific compulsory modules. 
    • Compulsory module 1.3:  Understanding Research and Researchers.
    • Two elective modules of choice.
  2. Achieve a minimum score of 75% on the multiple-choice quizzes for each module.
  3. Successfuly complete a case study assessment to demonstrate applied knowledge. 

QUALITY CONTROL:

The Accreditation Council oversees the quality standards of module content and the ARMS Training Fellows. This provides independence from the ARMS Board in accreditation recommendations and standards.

WHO WILL ASSESS MY WORK? 

Case study assessments are reviewed by experienced professionals endorsed by the ARMS Accreditation Council. These reviewers follow a consistent set of guidelines to ensure fairness in the evaluation process.

ARMS TRAINING FELLOWS:

ARMS Training Fellows are specially selected individuals with extensive expertise in research management. They serve as ambassadors for the accreditation program and deliver high-quality training, bringing fresh insights and innovative approaches to the modules.

ARMS Training Fellows come from varied backgrounds and provide comprehensive knowledge of research management. They also bring a fresh and innovative approach to the delivery of module material.

Read more information on the ARMS Training Fellows.

ENROLMENT:

The Foundation Level Accreditation Program has a straightforward enrolment process. There’s no formal application; simply begin with the first module, and the accreditation process starts from there.

MODULE REGISTRATION FEE:

The module registration fee is reviewed annually and may be adjusted in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Participants will be informed of the updated fees, as well as the cancellation policy, when registering. Currently, there’s no additional fee for participating in the case study.

The ARMS Accreditation Program Policy has full details of all requirements to achieve accreditation and to maintain accreditation.

For more information on the ARMS Foundation Level Accreditation please read the ARMS Foundation Level FAQs.