Ethical Principles in Research Program (EPRP)

NOTE: If you have already passed the Human Subjects Protection Program (HSPP), you do not need to complete the EPRP, use your HSPP number instead.

The EPRP applies to research that poses no greater than minimal risk to human subjects. For minimal risk studies*, the principal investigator, co-principal investigator, sub-investigator(s), study coordinator(s) and any other person obtaining consent must successfully complete the EPRP. The program consists of an examination based on the ethical principles for research outlined in the Belmont Report and other research related issues. Complete the four steps outlined below to obtain an EPRP number.

Step 1: Read the Belmont Report

Step 2: Read Research Issues

Step 3: Read Basic Guidelines for Study Conduct

Step 4: Complete the Exam

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) requires principal investigators and key personnel to demonstrate completion of training in research ethics, even on studies that qualify for exemption. Since April 2, 2001 the RSRB has required investigators on all exempt studies to complete the EPRP before an exemption letter will be issued. This is consistent with the University's policy to apply ethical standards to all studies, regardless of funding source.

You will receive notification of your pass/fail status by mail. If you pass, this notification will include your EPRP number and expiration date, which are required on all applications for IRB review. This program satisfies the NIH training requirement for either 'exempt' or 'expeditable' studies, but not for studies requiring 'full board' review.

Program Renewal

Individuals will need to renew their EPRP number every three years. We have selected an on-line program called the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI Program). This refresher course will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. Approximately 60 days before your current EPRP number expires you will receive by e-mail full details on how to access the refresher course.

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* According to Federal regulations, minimal risk means that the probability and magnitude of harm or discomfort anticipated in the research are not greater in and of themselves than those ordinarily encountered in daily life or during the performance of routine physical or psychological examinations or tests. Examples of minimal risk procedures include most surveys, record reviews, moderate exercise testing, and administration of psychological tests involving a minor level of stress.