ARMA Certificate in Research Management : am I Foundation or Advanced?
Use the following diagnostic to help you decide which ARMA Qualification might suit you best
- Completely new to research?
We recommend our Foundation programme, which will ‘set out the goalposts’ and show you where you stand on the field! If you have just started in your new role, it might be an idea to wait a few months until you’ve got your feet under the desk! That said, the Foundation programme can be a very good way to organise your learning, but you will need a mentor. Also, be kind to yourself! There is no hurry to complete assignments. We recommend that you take your time and complete assignments when you feel ready to do so.
- Moved into an RMA1 role from another University admin role?
Well, if your previous role was nothing to do with research, we’d probably recommend the Foundation programme.
On the other hand, if you’ve been at your university for a while and get the ‘big picture’, then the Advanced programme might be more satisfying!
- Just moved to the UK, having had a research-related post elsewhere?
The UK is a bit different, for sure. But it’s not that different if you’ve worked in a research or research-related professional services role elsewhere. The Advanced programme is the ideal vehicle to transport you safely to the UK!
- New to the Higher Education Sector?
We would recommend the Foundation programme if you’ve had no dealings with a research institution, research funder or Government department. If you have, the Advanced programme’s for you!
- Moved over from academia to RMA?
Done a Masters or your PhD and decided that academia is perhaps not for you? The Advanced programme is!
- Been in your current RMA role for under 2 years? Or over?
Depending on how senior your role is, we would probably elect for the Foundation for the former scenario, and the Advanced for the latter.
- Held a management post already?
We would recommend the Advanced programme, although if you are completely new to the world of research, it might be an idea to go for the Foundation.
- Want to change from one area of RMA to another?
It can be difficult to make the case in an interview if you want to ‘change tracks’, but our Advanced programme will give you a detailed knowledge of the other areas of the profession, helping you to make a convincing case for your conversion!
- Want to aim for a management or team leader role?
Our Advanced programme will allow you to evidence that you have the right knowledge, at the right level, to be able to manage any RMA-related team.
- Looking to apply for a job elsewhere?
Many of our graduates use their CRM Qualification as an entrée to their next role or a vehicle for promotion. The CRM, accredited by ATHE, independently verifies your knowledge. That’s much more powerful than a reference!
- Not covered your situation?
Email us at qualifications@arma.ac.uk and we’ll endeavour to advise you!
1RMA – Research Management and Administration
