Membership

How do I change my password or request a new password?

Login details under my account in the member portal lets you edit your email address used to login and also the password.

To request a new password, click on the Member Login at the top right hand side of the ARMS website page and then click on Request new password, found at the bottom of the new box.

How do I sign up as a member if I am from an organisation with an existing corporate membership?

If you are new to ARMS:

Please visit the membership page. Scroll down to the page's bottom and select Is your business already a member? highlighted within the grey box at the page's conclusion. This process involves two steps: first, create a User Account, and second, link the User Account to your employer's corporate account.

If you have previously created an ARMS User Account (non-member):

Having already set up a User (non-member) Account, you can promptly associate it with your business by logging into your portal and submitting a request to link it to your employer's corporate membership..

Please note:

Approval for your membership under your employer's corporate membership is required from the corporate lead of the institution. Once approved, you will gain access to the membership benefits of the corporate member.

If you have any questions or are unsure if you have a User Account, please contact ARMSMembership@researchmanagement.org.au.

How do I change my personal details?

To modify or alter personal information, kindly access your member portal by logging in. Navigate to the left menu and select Personal Details to make the necessary updates. If you wish to update your address, click on Addresses, and for changes to email addresses and passwords, utilize the Login Details option.

In the event of transitioning between employers while maintaining an active membership from a previous employer, refrain from creating a new ARMS account. Instead, reach out to ARMSMembership@researchmangement.org.au for assistance.

Member Portal

How do I log into the ARMS member portal?

On the home page go to the member login in the top right corner and enter your username and password.

General Accreditation

What is ARMS Accreditation?

ARMS offers three (3) points-based accreditation programs.

Our Foundation Level Accreditation Program (FLAP)  provides a series of training modules that cover many of the basic areas of research administration and management to provide a foundation level of knowledge. 25 Points

The Established Level Accreditation Program (ELAP) commenced in 2022 and became the new precursor to the ALAP. The program is designed for mid to senior level research management professionals who wish to enhance their leadership, management and content skills to become more effective research leaders in the rapidly evolving research and innovation sector. 100 Points

The Advanced Level Accreditation Program(ALAP) is the highest level of accreditation offered by ARMS and requires participants to have previously completed the ELAP. The program consists of a significant workplace-based assignment consisting of 5,000 to 10,000 words. 150 Points

What is ARMS Foundation Level Accreditation?

ARMS developed this program to support and train people working in research administration and management. This program provides a series of training modules that cover many of the basic areas of research administration and management to provide a foundation level of knowledge.

The Foundation Level of Accreditation Program currently includes twenty (20) modules with more under development. 

Is the Foundation Level Accreditation Program right for me?

The Foundation Level Accreditation Program is designed for people who are:

  • New to research management/administration (<5 years);
  • Not new to research management/administration but interested in updating their knowledge or learning about a specific element;
  • Interested in extending their knowledge beyond existing specialisations; or
  • Coming back to the sector after an extended time outside of the research management profession.

I’ve been working in research administration for a while – what can Foundation Level Accreditation offer me?

The Foundation Level Accreditation Program (FLAP) gives you the opportunity to gain knowledge in new areas of research management outside of your previous experience, to network with your colleagues and to stay up to date on the rapidly changing field of research administration. It’s also a way to get formal recognition of the skills and experience you have cultivated throughout your career.

If you are a mid to senior level research mangement professional who has worked in the sector for 5 or more years or a senior academic/professional staff member entering a senior research management role you might be interested in the Established Level Accreditation Program.

Is the Foundation Level Accreditation Program compulsory? Does my employer require accreditation?

The Foundation Level Accreditation Program is voluntary.

Ask your employer whether it is a requirement of employment as each workplace is different.  If it is not compulsory, the program is designed to give you the competitive edge, i.e. to gain knowledge and experience about the profession and to network with other research management professionals.

What are the Foundation Level Accreditation requirements?

There are three (3) key requirements in becoming accredited as an ARMS Accredited Research Manager (Foundation) - ARM(F):

  1. Participation in five (5) module presentations delivered either face to face, via a virtual meeting platform or through a complete online learning program (LMS). Three (3) modules are compulsory (online) and participants are required to select two (2) electives of their interest. See Modules for more information;
  2. Successful completion (minimum grade of 75%) of a multiple-choice assessment for each of the five (5) modules within two weeks of attending a workshop or completing an online module; and
  3. Successful completion of a case study assessment.

To maintain accreditation, you must complete 60 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) every three years following your accreditation.

How long does accreditation take?

Participants in the Foundation Level Accreditation Program should complete their five (5) modules within three (3) years with an additional year to complete the case study assessment. This means that from the date of your first module you will have four (4) years to complete all elements of the Foundation Level Accreditation Program.

I won’t be able to complete the Foundation Level Accreditation Program before my deadline. What happens now?

Please get in touch! If you are unable to complete all program elements before the deadline due to illness, parental leave, secondment, unemployment, etc, your individual circumstances will be considered. 

Every attempt is made to ensure participants are not disadvantaged.  For example, the three-year period for completing modules will be extended for people working part-time (less than 1.0 FTE).

How much does the Foundation Level Accreditation Program cost?

The only cost associated with the Foundation Level Accreditation Program is the registration fee for each module. There are no other program fees. When registering for a module, please observe the Cancellation and Refund Policy.

Please note that complete online modules (1.1-Aus, 1.2-Aus and 1.3) have a cancellation policy specific to the delivery of modules via an online learning platform.  These online modules are non-cancellable and the registration fee is non-refundable. Please see the ARMS cancellation policy attached to the registration page of these online modules.

Accreditation Modules

When are modules offered?

Compulsory modules are open for registration at any time.

Elective modules are arranged as virtual meetings, typically taking place between May and November.

Details regarding the scheduled delivery of both compulsory and elective modules can be accessed on our website.

 

Do I need to do my modules all at once?

No. You have three (3) years to complete all five (5) modules.

How do I stay updated on which modules are available?

A list of all confirmed upcoming modules can be viewed on our Accreditation Modules page. Additional modules, including any new modules, may be added as required, or when they become available.

Currently, ARMS has seven (7) compulsary modules available as complete online trainings.  These modules, listed below, may be started at any time as they are self-paced.

  • Module 1.1-Aus: The National Research and Innovation System in Australia
  • Module 1.1-NZ: The National Research and Innovation System in New Zealand
  • Module 1.1-Sing: The National Research and Innovation System in Singapore
  • Module 1.2-Aus: Legislation as it Affects Research in Australia
  • Module 1.2-NZ: Legislation as it Affects Research in New Zealand
  • Module 1.2:Sing: Legislation as it Affects Research in Singapore
  • Module 1.3: Understanding Research and Researchers (all regions)

If you are an ARMS member you may receive emails about modules curently available for delivery. If you are not an ARMS member, please contact ARMS for information about upcoming modules and regularly check the ARMS website.

ARMS Members receive discounted registration fees so it’s worth considering becoming a member!

 

How are modules delivered? Can I study online?

Currently, all modules are delivered via in person workshops, as virtual online meetings or as complete online learning modules. Most elective modules are delivered as online meetings.

ARMS currently has seven (7) compulsary modules available as complete online courses via our Moodle LMS.  These modules, listed below, may be started at any time as they are self-paced.

Keep up to date with the availability of online delivery by regularly checking our website.

Who presents the modules?

Modules are presented by Training Fellows. Training Fellows have been endorsed by the ARMS Accreditation Council to deliver material and train others in specific areas of research management.

I’m not sure if I’m going to do the Foundation Level Accreditation Program. Can I register for a module just for general interest?

Absolutely! You don’t need to be pursuing accreditation to attend an ARMS module. Modules are a great opportunity to increase your knowledge in one specific area of research management and are perfect for professional development.

If you successfully complete one or more modules and then decide to pursue Foundation Level Accreditation later, those modules can contribute towards completing the accreditation program (conditions apply, contact us for more information).

How do I register for a module?

ARMS Members:

Log-in to your member portal and navigate to the Accreditation Modules. You can choose to pay via credit card on the website, or request a tax invoice by contacting ARMSAccreditation@researchmangement.org.au. Please note that for online modules, you will not be able to access the module until the invoice has been paid.

Non-members:

If you are not an ARMS member, you may register online, but you will be charged at the non-member's price for the module(s). We strongly encourage you to consider becoming a member – not only do you save money on module registration fees, but you have access to the full range of ARMS member benefits.

What are the module prices?

The 2024 module prices are:

            Members: $405 AUD (incl GST)

            Non-Members: $505 AUD (incl GST)

Modules that are delivered alongside the annual conference or other major ARMS events may be priced differently.

Do I need to do any preparation before attending a module?

Elective modules:

Yes. When you register for a face to face elective module module (delivered either in person by a facilitator or virtually via Zoom) you will be sent a confirmation email which contains a link to the module pre-reading material (Body of Knowledge).

Compulsory modules:

For all compulsory (online) modules (i.e. modules that are completed online via Moodle) there are no pre-reading requirements.

What do I need to bring along to a module?

If you are attending a face to face module or one delivered via zoom, You should bring:

  • A digital or hard copy of the Body of Knowledge;
  • A laptop or notebook; and
  • Any other module-specific requirements listed in your module confirmation email.

However, there are no specific requirements for compulsory modules delivered via our online learning platform, Moodle.

People working in the research management profession operate in a variety of roles and specialisations – does everyone need to do the same modules?

Yes and no!

Yes - Everyone undertaking the Foundation Level Accreditation Program must complete three (3) compulsory modules –The National Research and Innovation System in ... (specific to your country), Legislation as it Affects Research in ... (specific to your country) and Understanding Research and Researchers.

No - You can then choose your own two (2) remaining elective modules from a range of options that apply to your specialisation or interest in grants, ethics, data, HDR, etc.

There aren’t any modules that are relevant to my role – does this mean I can’t be accredited?

ARMS is continually working to develop and deliver new modules. At the commencement of the Foundation Accreditation program in 2012 there were 12 modules on offer, and today we have 19 modules available, with more under development.

If you are not interested in any of the elective modules, start by attending the three (3) compulsory modules. Over the course of your accreditation we may introduce new modules that are more relevant to you.

Can I cancel a module registration?

If your circumstances change and you can’t attend a module workshop, you must contact us no later than 10 working days before the event. ARMS will refund the full registration fee minus any administrative fees.

If you cancel with less than 10 days’ notice you will not receive a refund, but you might like to nominate a proxy to attend the module workshop on your behalf. Contact us to let us know you won’t be able to attend.

Please note that compulsory online modules (1.1-Aus, 1.2-Aus and 1.3) have a cancellation policy specific to the delivery of modules via an online learning platform.  These online modules are non-cancellable and the registration fee is non-refundable. Please see the ARMS cancellation policy attached to the registration page of these online modules.

ARMS reserve the right to cancel, postpone or re-schedule courses and events if minimum numbers are not reached or for other unforeseen circumstances.

Please see the full Cancellation and Refund Policy for more information.

Accreditation Assessments

What happens if I fail a multiple-choice assessment?

If you get less than 15/20 or 75% on your first attempt, you can take the multiple-choice assessment again with a new set of randomly selected questions. If you fail the second attempt you will need to contact the Accreditation Program Administrator to arrange for a Training Fellow to provide some mentoring on the module material. You’ll then be offered a third attempt at the multiple-choice assessment. If you fail the third attempt, you will be invited to re-attend the module workshop at no additional cost.

Who reviews my assessments?

Multiple-choice assessments

The multiple-choice questions have been created by the developers of each module. The module developers are experts in their field. Multiple choice questions are reviewed annually or biennially by the Accreditation Council as part of the module review cycle.

Case study assessment

Your case study assessment will be reviewed by at least two senior research management professionals. These reviewers typically occupy director-level roles in research offices and similar units. Final case study results are endorsed by the Accreditation Council.

What assessments do I need to complete?

You must successfully complete five (5) module multiple choice assessments and one case study assessment to become accredited.

Multiple-choice assessment

After participating in a module workshop or an online module, you need to complete a multiple-choice assessment consisting of 20 randomly selected questions. We’ll email you a link to the assessment if you participated in a face to face or virtual workshop, after your attendance at the workshop has been confirmed. If you completed the module as an online course, you will be directed to the online quiz once you have completed going through the oneline content.

To pass the multiple-choice assessment you must achieve a minimum grade of 75%. If you don’t pass the first time you will be given a second opportunity to complete the assessment.

Case study assessment

You will be invited to complete a case study assessment after successfully completing the assessment requirements of three (3) compulsory and two (2) elective modules. The case study assessment consists of reading a fictional scenario designed to simulate issues in research management then answering approximately 6 to 10 questions about the scenario. Case study participants are awarded a grade of Merit Pass, Pass or Re-sit. Refer to What happens if I fail the case study? for further information.

The case study assessment is offered to eligible candidates in rounds, typically held in May and October. Invitations are sent out to eligeable participants approximately 4 to 6 weeks prior to the start of the next case study.  Invitations are typically sent out in April and September of each year.

Participants are entitled to defer thier case study once, unless extenuating circumstances apply.

What happens if I fail the case study?

If you fail the case study assessment you will be offered a chance to re-sit the assessment in the next round. You’ll be advised that you may contact ARMS and arrange to discuss your case study and receive mentoring from the ARMS Accreditation Program Manager or delegate.

Can I defer my assessments?

Multiple-choice assessment

You must notify the ARMS Accreditation Program Administrator if you won’t be able to complete the multiple-choice assessment within 2 weeks.

Case study assessment

You may have one deferral of your case study assessment. When you are invited to participate in the assessment you should let us know whether you will be participating or deferring.

When do I need to do the assessments?

Multiple-choice assessment

You must complete the multiple-choice assessment within two (2) weeks of being sent the assessment link, or having started the online quiz.

Case study assessment

If eligible, you’ll be sent an invitation to join the upcoming assessment round with relevant dates and timeframes. Candidates are typically given three (3) weeks to complete the assessment (max 1500 words).

Can I appeal any decisions relating to my assessments?

Yes, participants have the right to appeal the decision of the Accreditation Council, but only against administrative process issues.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

I’ve made a mistake! How do I edit or delete my claim?

You can only change a claim in your CPD Diary before it has been approved by the CPD working party. Get in touch with us if you need to change a CPD claim that has already been approved and we will take care of it.

I’ve had a break in my career. What happens now?

If you’ve taken time out of your career due to illness, transfer, parental leave, etc please contact us. It’s likely that you’ll be able to deduct the period of interruption from your CPD requirement.

What are the CPD requirements?

Foundation, Established and Advanced Accredited members must complete 60 hours of CPD over a three-year period to maintain their accreditation. At the end of each three-year period, your CPD balance returns to 0 hours and you must accrue another 60 hours. CPD activities should adhere to the guidelines below (see “What activities can I submit for CPD?”).

If you’re unable to complete 60 hours of CPD over a 3-year period due to a career break, you may be eligible for special dispensation (see “I’ve had a break in my career. What happens now?” ). Please contact us for further advice on your individual case.

Who approves my CPD?

Your CPD claims are reviewed by the CPD Working Party. The CPD Working Party meets quarterly to evaluate each claim and decide whether to approve or reject the claim in accordance with the CPD Guidelines.

How do I record my CPD hours?

You need to log-in to your ARMS portal, click CPD Diary on the left-hand side of the screen, and then click the Add CPD Diary Entry button at the top of the page. You should record your CPD Activity Name, Hours,  Accreditation type, a brief Description of the activity (this will be used to evaluate your claim) and the Activity Completion Date.

You must also upload supporting documentation as evidence of your claim if not an ARMS module, master class, elective or ARMS event (including PD Sessions @ Zoom). ARMS events that you register for via your member portal are automatically approved once your attendance is confirmed. For webinars and online meetings, your attendance is approved by your online login details (email).

Supporting documentation includes both:

  1. A detailed description of the event which may be a brochure, agenda, or a copy of the training program.
  2. Evidence that you attended the event. This can include an email confirmation from your line supervisor, a pdf certificate of attendance, formal confirmation of results, etc. 

What activities can I submit for CPD?

The following Guidelines determine which types of activities are eligible for CPD:

  • Formal postgraduate study and other tertiary courses relevant to research administration and/or management and not undertaken as part of a degree course;
  • Conference attendance, workshops, seminars and other similar activities delivered or facilitated by recognised practitioners in the field of research management, including ARMS events*;
  • Learning activities in the workplace which enhance research management knowledge or skills;
  • Service to ARMS, sister societies or other similar bodies up to a maximum of 30 hours over a three-year period;
  • Preparation and/or presentation of courses, talks and other material at research management workshops and conferences;
  • Secondment appointments up to a maximum of 30 hours over a three-year period; and
  • Any other structured activities not covered by the above, but which satisfy the objectives of these Guidelines.

*The maximum claim for any conference relevant to the profession will be 8 hours and any other event relevant to the profession will be 7 hours per day.

What is Continuing Professional Development?

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is the way people maintain their Foundation, Established or Advanced Level Accreditation after completing the accreditation program. CPD ensures people:

  • Maintain their knowledge;
  • Develop and implement research management practices in their workplace;
  • Develop their career; and
  • Be an example or mentor to other research management professionals in their workplace.

 

Why was my claim rejected?

You can determine if your claim was rejected by logging into the portal and checking your CPD Diary. Claims that have been denied will have the hours changed to zero (0) and there will be a note in the CPD Activity Name that your claim was rejected.

Claims may be denied for a range of reasons:

•           Not relevant to the research administration and management profession;

•           Over the number of acceptable hours for the type of activity; or

•           A duplicate for another entry (including ARMS modules, which are automatically logged in your profile).

If you have any questions over your claim, please contact us.