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Good Clinical Practice (GCP)

We offer free Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training courses for people supporting clinical research delivery at the NHS, UK universities and other publicly funded organisations in England.

Access GCP courses

You can browse all our GCP courses on NIHR Learn. You need to log in to see them.

NIHR Learn


First time users

Go to NIHR Learn and click on ‘Create account’.  You can register on NIHR Learn with your work email address.


What is GCP?

GCP is the agreed international standard for conducting clinical research.

The UK Policy Framework for Health and Social Care Research sets out principles of good practice in the management and conduct of health and social care research in the UK.

It stipulates that Good Clinical Practice Training is needed for researchers conducting clinical trials of investigational medicinal products (CTIMPs).


What courses are available?

GCP certification

You can do the following courses:

  • introduction
  • refresher
  • consolidation

Informed consent

We also offer courses on informed consent. You can choose your course, depending on your experience, and the needs of the trial you are working on.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often do I need to do it?

Your trust or employer will decide this, as it depends on the research you are involved in, and your previous experience.

We recommend refresher training every 2 to 3 years to keep up with best practice.

Is it CPD accredited?

Yes, the GCP courses are CPD accredited.

See more FAQs on Good Clinical Practice on the NIHR Learn Help website.


Why do I need to do this training?

Everyone who works on delivering a study has to have an up-to-date GCP certificate.

As a certified GCP researcher, you will:

  • protect the rights and safety of people taking part in research studies
  • collect reliable research data

Need help?

Email nihrlearnhelp@nihr.ac.uk

We will respond within 3 working days.


More information