a-IPC (CBIC) - Associate – Infection Prevention and Control

The Associate – Infection Prevention and Control (a-IPC) certification, offered by the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology (CBIC), is intended for early career professionals in infection prevention and control. This certification demonstrates foundational knowledge and commitment to infection prevention and control best practices.

Completion Time: 2 hours

Cost: $325

Exam Format

The computer-based exam is offered at nationwide testing centers or via remote proctoring.

The a-IPC exam typically includes 100 multiple-choice questions (15 unscored) covering basic infection prevention and control concepts, including epidemiology, microbiology, patient safety, and infection control practices.

Apply for the a-IPC certification through CBIC and meet the eligibility criteria.

Eligibility

• Interest or involvement in infection prevention and control, although specific clinical experience may not be required.

• A desire to establish a foundation in infection prevention and control principles and practices.

• Passing the a-IPC examination.

To become a certified a-IPC professional, you must pass the CBIC a-IPCTM Examination. The exam has a pass/fail decision score, which requires a total test-scaled score of at least 700. Scaled scores are calculated by converting the number of correct answers to a scaled score ranging from 300 to 900.

The a-IPC certification must be renewed every 5 years either by submitting a continuing education portfolio or by retaking the certification exam. Credentials expire on December 31 of the 5th year, and the cost for either renewal pathway is $325.

Continuing Education Portfolio

To renew through continuing education, certificants must earn 40 Infection Prevention Units (IPUs) and submit them online by October 31 of the renewal year. Submissions made between November 1–30 incur a 25% late fee. After November 30, the only way to maintain certification is to complete the full proctored exam by December 31.

Recertification by Examination

As an alternative, professionals may renew by examination. This involves retaking the same a-ICP certification exam required for initial certification.

When submitting a portfolio for renewal, candidates must demonstrate that their activities cover at least 6 out of 8 knowledge areas outlined in the These areas include:

1. Recognizing and diagnosing infectious diseases

2. Conducting surveillance and epidemiologic investigations

3. Preventing and controlling the spread of infectious agents

4. Protecting employee and occupational health

5. Overseeing and communicating infection prevention programs

6. Education and research initiatives

7. Ensuring safety in the healthcare environment

8. Proper cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization of medical devices and equipment

Prorated IPU Requirements (2025–2029)

a-IPC certificants recertifying between 2025 and 2029 have prorated IPU requirements since they did not have the full 5-year cycle. The number of required IPUs is based on the year the certification expires:

• Expiring 12/31/2025, must earn 5 IPUs

• Expiring 12/31/2026, must earn 12 IPUs

• Expiring 12/31/2027, must earn 20 IPUs

• Expiring 12/31/2028, must earn 27 IPUs

• Expiring 12/31/2029, must earn 35 IPUs

Certifications expiring after 2029 must meet the six-domain minimum as part of the renewal process. Candidates can find more details in the candidate handbook.

Candidate Handbook

For specific information regarding the Associate – Infection Prevention and Control certification, including eligibility criteria, examination details, and renewal processes, it is recommended to consult directly with the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology (CBIC). CBIC provides comprehensive resources, guidelines, and certification opportunities for professionals in the field of infection prevention and control.

Career Opportunities

Professionals with a-IPC certification often work in healthcare settings, public health departments, or related fields.

They are involved in implementing infection control programs, monitoring and reporting infection rates, educating healthcare personnel, and contributing to policies and procedures to reduce the risk of infection.

The CBIC also offers the following certifications:

• Certified in Infection Control (CIC)

• Long-Term Care Certification in Infection Prevention (LTC-CIP)

Other related certifications include SOCRA Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP).