Career growth and continuous learning are crucial for staying up-to-date in the rapidly evolving healthcare industry. One way to stand out and elevate your career is as a Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional (CCEP) (awarded by the Society of Corporate Compliance and Ethics). It’s a journey that requires dedication and commitment to fulfilling necessary work experience, education, and examination requirements.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to help you navigate the path to CCEP certification and empower you to enhance your professional standing as you contribute to the growth and success of your organization.
The Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional (CCEP) certification is one of the most prestigious credentials in the compliance field. As regulations and ethical standards evolve organizations are increasingly seeking out certified compliance experts to strengthen their programs.
Obtaining the CCEP certification demonstrates your commitment to the profession and deep expertise in core compliance knowledge areas. But the path to becoming a CCEP is not always straightforward. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get CCEP certified.
Overview of the CCEP Certification
The CCEP certification is administered by the Compliance Certification Board (CCB) and requires candidates to pass a comprehensive exam covering 5 key domains
- Foundations and Basic Components of a Compliance and Ethics Program
- Oversight and Management of the Compliance and Ethics Function
- Standards, Policies, Procedures, and Controls
- Compliance and Ethics Risk Assessment, Auditing, Monitoring, and Investigations
- Response and Prevention
To be eligible for the CCEP exam, you must have at least 1 year of full-time compliance work experience. The computer-based exam contains 115 multiple choice questions and takes 3.5 hours to complete.
CCEP certifications are valid for 2 years To renew, you must earn and submit a minimum of 20 continuing education units (CEUs) each cycle
Step 1: Review the Exam Content
The first step is to thoroughly review the CCEP exam content outline. This gives you an overview of the knowledge areas covered and the relative weight of each domain.
Download the content outline and use it as a blueprint for your study plan. Assess your current level of knowledge and make a list of domains or topics you need to focus on.
Step 2: Meet the Eligibility Requirements
Before registering for the exam, ensure you meet the CCEP eligibility requirements:
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1 year of full-time compliance work experience or 1,500 hours within the last 2 years. This can include experience in developing, implementing, and managing compliance programs in a full-time role.
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Meeting the CEU requirement. Within the 12 months prior to applying, you must have earned 20 CEUs relevant to the exam content. 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of continuous learning.
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Agreeing to the CCEP Code of Professional Ethics. This code covers integrity, objectivity, and ethical conduct.
Carefully review the eligibility criteria outlined in the CCEP Candidate Handbook.
Step 3: Prepare for the Exam
Once your eligibility is confirmed, shift your focus to prep and review. Here are some tips on preparing for the CCEP exam:
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Enroll in a CCEP exam prep course. Taking a prep course allows you to focus your study, gain insights from expert instructors, and benchmark your progress with practice exams. SCCE offers a 2-day prep course onsite or online.
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Form a study group. Studying with other CCEP candidates lets you quiz each other, discuss challenging topics, and keep each other motivated.
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Use study guides and books. Recommended resources include SCCE’s Complete Compliance and Ethics Manual and The Healthcare Compliance Professional’s Manual.
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Leverage free resources. Check out SCCE’s weekly newsletters, webinars, and online community.
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Take practice exams. SCCE offers a 125-question practice exam to assess your test readiness. Time yourself to get used to the exam pace.
Aim to study for 2-3 hours per day over a period of 2-3 months. Focus on your weak areas and keep reviewing until concepts are clear.
Step 4: Submit Your Exam Application
Once you have met the eligibility criteria and are ready to take the exam, you can submit your CCEP application on SCCE’s website. You will need to provide information on your compliance experience and CEUs earned.
The CCEP exam fee is $350 for SCCE members and $495 for non-members. Payment can be made via check or credit card.
Once approved, you will receive an Authorization to Test letter by email with instructions on how to schedule your exam date, time, and testing center location.
Step 5: Take and Pass the Exam
On exam day, arrive early at the Prometric testing center. Bring your ATT letter, ID, and anything else outlined in the ATT letter.
The computer-based exam contains 115 multiple choice questions. You will have 3.5 hours to complete the exam, with an optional 15-minute break after 2 hours. Read each question carefully and eliminate wrong answers before selecting the right one.
After completing the exam, you will receive your pass/fail score report. If you fail, you can re-take the exam for a reduced fee after a 60-day waiting period. With enough preparation, most candidates pass on their first try.
Step 6: Meet Renewal Requirements
Once certified, you must renew your CCEP every 2 years. To renew, you must:
- Pay a $100 renewal fee
- Obtain and submit 20 CEUs within your renewal cycle
- Sign and agree to abide by the CCEP Code of Ethics
Mark your renewal date on your calendar and start collecting CEUs early. Expand your knowledge by attending conferences, workshops, training courses, and webinars.
Is CCEP Certification Worth It?
Earning the trusted and recognized CCEP credential requires effort but offers immense value for compliance professionals at all stages of their career.
As a CCEP, you will gain:
- Increased knowledge and on-the-job skills
- Greater career opportunities, advancement, and earning potential
- Peer recognition and credibility
Overall, the CCEP certification journey is challenging but rewarding. With adequate preparation and experience, any motivated candidate can pass the exam and earn their CCEP. Use this step-by-step guide to stay on track and achieve your goal of becoming a Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional.
Navigating the Path to CCEP Certification
When you become a CCEP, you’re making an investment in your career and the organization you serve. To help you navigate the certification process, we’ve outlined the essential steps to achieve this prestigious designation.
By following these guidelines, you’ll enhance your professional skills and foster a culture of ethical practices and compliance within your organization.
Verify Requirements and Submit Your Application
After ensuring you meet all candidacy requirements, complete and submit the exam application and the appropriate testing fee. Make sure your application is complete and legible before submission. Additionally, include documentation of your 20 CCB CEUs if they still need to be added to CCB, and remember to submit the fee.
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What is CCEP certification?
What is the CCEP certification? The Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional certification, or CCEP, is a credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge of legal and ethical conduct. People with this certification can implement the protocols linked to this conduct within a workplace through compliance programs.
How do I get CCEP certification?
You may earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in engineering, economics, law, business management or a similar field. These subjects can equip you for success during the CCEP certification process. Additionally, earning an advanced degree can set you apart from other applicants for compliance jobs.
How long does a CCEP certification last?
Congratulations! Your certification is valid for two years. You may now can use the Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP)®designation. You may want to use it in professional communication items such as business cards, letters, or in your email signature, among others.
How do I become a Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP)?
Individuals who meet eligibility requirements and who successfully pass this examination attain the Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP) designation. To apply for this examination, complete the application included with this handbook and mail it to the address provided.
