Research Costing Compliance (RCC) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is RCC changing?
RCC is changing its programming to offer a broader range of classes and topics. The new RCC broad range of programming is designed to offer training based on levels of experience and specific activities and responsibilities of research managers. Instead of lecture-based classes, most training programs provide more “hands-on” experiences.
What does the new RCC look like?
Please visit the new webpage for detailed information.
Are there other research training opportunities available?
Yes. Important research administration training is offered by:
Our goal is two to three times a year, until we determine that the demand for the training is diminishing.
Is RAA restricted just for new people? I might want to attend.
RAA is designed to provide new grant managers with basic skills and a comprehensive understanding of their jobs. Those wishing to enroll in RAA must meet certain criteria (less than two-years experience in grants management at Duke University) and be recommended by their supervisor. In addition, they must be currently managing sponsored projects at least 50% of their time. We are willing to accept strong recommendations from supervisors for individuals who do not meet the standard criteria; however, it is important to keep in mind that there may be other new training options that would better suit those with less than 50% grant management assignments, or greater than two-year experience.
More experienced (more than two years managing sponsored projects at Duke University) individuals, and/or those with less than 50% grant duties may wish to take "FasTrack" individual classes that are similar in content to RAA, but they will not receive a certificate for these classes.
Can I enroll in RAA even if I am currently certified in RCC?
Yes, but restrictions listed in question #6 apply.
What if I only want to enroll in one of the new RAAFasTrack classes?
FasTrack classes will be offered so that you can take a specific, targeted class geared toward your job function. These classes will be open to all, regardless of experience and job duties, but will not result in certification. Although FasTrack I and II have preferred participants, anyone may attend if class space is available.
I’ve heard about a new certificate program for experienced grant managers. What is RAI?
RAI stands for Research Administration Institute. It is a series of advanced courses designed for more experienced grant managers and business managers. RAI classes will be available in Fall 2009.
Does RAI replace RCC?
In a way it does. The RCC Certificate will no longer be offered. Instead, we are building a career ladder progression from the basic training in RAA to the advanced RAI training.
I've tried to register for RCC Certification and can't get in. Why?
Since RCC is transitioning to new programs, we have suspended new registration. RCC will no longer be offered. If you have taken RCC classes without being accepted into the program prior to September 2008, those classes will not count towards any certificate, but may count towards fulfilling the pre-requisite requirements for new RCC programs. Check the program grid for more information.
Will the classes I've already taken for RCC certification be allowed towards the new certification if I haven't been officially accepted into the old RCC program?
See Question 11. Some may be allowed as a part of the new certification options, others may count towards a new prerequisite component. Some unfortunately will not count, but you will have received great value from attending.
Even if I am RCC certified, will I have to take the new RAA or RAI Certification when it begins?
Not at this time, but these programs may become mandatory in the future as we complete the transition.
Will I still have to maintain my RCC Certificate through continuing education?
Yes. In addition, the RAA and RAI Certificates also require four units of continuing education, plus the mandatory Selected Topics class offered each year.
Will continuing education requirements stay the same?
No. The RCC, RAA, and RAI Certificates require continuing education and the mandatory class “Management of Selected Post Award Issues” offered each year. (Note: “Management of Selected Post Award Issues” content is updated annually).
The new Continuing Education requirements are: at least four credits per year, including the class “Management of Selected Post Award Issues” offered each year. Only classes and sessions offered through ORA, ORS, OSP, CRSO, and SOMCO may be counted towards this requirement. RCC also allows attendance at NCSRA, SRA, and/or NCURA meetings to count towards continuing education. The semi-annual Certified Research Administrator Study Group sessions at Duke University may also be counted, provided you attend all sessions. All programs/classes offered through ORA, ORS, OSP, CRSO, and SOMCO count as one credit. Attendance at external professional meetings and the Duke University CRA Study Group each count as two credits.
Only if the FasTrack content has not been offered in the certificate program. For example, a RAI FasTrack will count for someone who is RAA Certified, but not for someone who is already RAI certified, and vice versa.
What about new Business Manager Continuing Education?
The announcement of the spring cycle of Business Manager training has been sent to the intended participants. New classes are announced directly to the Business Manager lists.
