The Certified Applied Research Professional (CARP) designation is awarded to individuals who successfully complete the Applied Research Exceptional Talent Program and meet the requirements for active membership. This designation recognizes applied research professionals who have developed strong competencies in research ethics, qualitative and quantitative methods, artificial intelligence in research, critical thinking, and industry-based applied research practice. CARP membership is designed for professionals seeking to strengthen their credibility, demonstrate applied research expertise, and signal their commitment to rigorous, ethical, and impactful research. It reflects both successful completion of a high-quality professional program and an ongoing dedication to maintaining professional standards in the field.

Target Audience

Early-career professionals, emerging researchers, graduate learners, and practitioners interested in developing or formalizing their expertise in applied research across academic, industry, public sector, and innovation environments. This membership is well suited for individuals seeking to strengthen their capabilities in research ethics, qualitative and quantitative methods, critical thinking, artificial intelligence in research, and industry-based applied research practice.

Eligibility

Successful completion of the Applied Research Exceptional Talent Program is required to qualify for the Certified Applied Research Professional (CARP) designation. The program includes the following courses: Applied Research Ethics, Qualitative Applied Research, Quantitative Applied Research, Artificial Intelligence and Applied Research, Critical Thinking and Applied Research, and an Industry Applied Research Project. Participants who complete the program may apply for certification and maintain active membership in order to use the CARP designation.

Benefits

• Authorization to use the professional designation Certified Applied Research Professional (CARP) while membership remains active.
• Recognition of successful completion of a structured applied research pathway aligned with professional standards.
• Access to professional membership status that demonstrates commitment to ethical, rigorous, and practice-oriented applied research.
• Enhanced credibility for academic, organizational, consulting, and industry-based research roles.
• Ongoing connection to a professional community committed to applied research excellence and continuous development.
• Access to selected professional resources, updates, and certification-related communications made available through membership.

The Applied Research Exceptional Talent Program is offered at a total registration cost of CAD 4,980.00 plus HST, where applicable. The annual membership fee to use the CARP designation is CAD 495.00 in Year 1. Beginning in Year 2, members are required to pay the annual membership fee plus a CAD 200.00 maintenance fee, for a total of CAD 695.00 per year. * All prices are stated in Canadian dollars.