Human Participant Training

Human Participant Research (HPR) Training

Applications for Exemption: CITI certification encouraged but not required.

Expedited and Full-Board submissions: Current CITI human participant research training -- and proof that the training has taken place -- is required for all SU researchers, key personnel, and advisers. Co-PIs from other institutions do not need to provide proof of HPR training. However, SU PIs must ensure high ethical standards among all key study personnel and must report any concerns/violations. In special circumstances (such as community-based research endeavors), SU PIs may opt to informally train key personnel in HPR protections. Contact the IRB to discuss possible accommodations.

Grant-Related Projects: Consult with the Office of Sponsored Projects regarding training requirements. All federally funded grants require Responsible and Ethical Conduct of Research Training, which for Seattle University affiliates means CITI training. Additionally, some funding organizations require specific certification, such as the CITI Responsible Conduct in Research (RCR) course. 

The Process for getting your CITI Training: 

  • Visit the CITI Human Participant Research Training website.
  • If you have a CITI account, choose "Log In" and proceed.
  • If you do not have a CITI account, do NOT select "Log In Through My Institution. First, click "Register," then enter Seattle University for "Select Your Organization Affiliation," and check appropriate boxes before clicking "Continue..."
  • Enter first and last name, and your SU email address only.
  • After registration, click View Courses for Seattle University.
  • Select Human Subjects Research for IRB (Faculty, Staff, and Student)*  
  • Take the required training modules.
  • Save a PDF of your certification to include with your IRB protocol submission.

*If this course does not appear in your list, scroll to the bottom of the "Courses" screen, select "Add a course," and answer questions regarding your interest in human participant research training.

Required CITI Modules for SU IRB:

  • History and Ethical Principles
  • Assessing Risk
  • Informed Consent
  • Privacy and Confidentiality

Supplemental CITI Modules:

Depending on the population/focus/nature of a protocol, the IRB may require additional modules, accessible after completing the required modules. To streamline potential revision processes, some PIs opt to proactively complete modules relevant to their study. Faculty may also opt to make one or more of these modules required for students in a course. 

  • Consent and Cultural Competence
  • Ethical and Practical Considerations in Community-Engaged Research (CEnR)
  • International Research
  • Internet-Based Research
  • Research with Children
  • Research with Decisionally Impaired Subjects
  • Research with Older Adults
  • Research with Persons who are Socially or Economically Disadvantaged
  • Research with Prisoners
  • Research in K-12 Public Elementary & Second Schools [NOTE: the IRB may require this module for research in private schools as well.]
  • Vulnerable Subjects – Workers/Employers