What is Advanced Leadership Certification in Infection Control and Prevention(AL‑CIP™)?

As the role of infection prevention and control (IPC) professionals continues to evolve, the Advanced Leadership Certification in Infection Prevention & Control (AL‑CIP™) from the Certification Board of Infection Control & Epidemiology (CBIC) recognizes those who go beyond daily practice to lead, innovate, and shape policy across healthcare settings.

Why AL‑CIP™ Matters

Unlike traditional testing methods, AL‑CIP™ is a portfolio-based assessment designed to validate the leadership, strategic vision, and measurable impact of IPC practitioners. It serves as a rigorous credential for those influencing organizational policy, advocating for quality improvement, and mentoring the next generation of infection preventionists.

Who Should Apply?

• Applicants need to hold an active CIC® or LTC‑CIP® certification.

• Demonstrated 5–10 years (or more) of advanced engagement in IPC through leadership, research, policy, or education.

• Evidence from impactful contributions beyond individual roles (such as organizational transformation, advocacy initiatives, or published materials) is expected.

Certification Framework: Domains & Competencies

AL‑CIP™ centers around two core domains subdivided into leadership and professionalism competencies:

• Domain I: Leadership

  • Practice & Innovation (strategic vision, innovation)

  • Change Management & Quality Improvement (risk reduction, team building)

  • Advocacy (coalition building, influence)

• Domain II: Professionalism

  • Accountability (individual responsibility, advancing the profession)

  • Inclusivity (engagement and inclusive implementation)

  • Professional Development (self‑growth and leadership cultivation)

Portfolio Submission & Evidence

Applicants submit 6–8 distinct pieces of evidence, each supported by a written rationale (max 1,000 words), showing alignment with selected sub-competencies. One piece of evidence may support up to three sub-competencies if justified clearly.
Examples of qualifying evidence include:

• Publications and presentations

• Strategic tools or quality‑improvement programs

• Leadership or quality credentials such as Six Sigma or CPHQ certification

Clear linkage between rationale and evidence is paramount—scoring depends on both quality of evidence and how well the rationale explains the professional impact.

Application Timeline & Fees

• Next application window: July 10–August 15, 2025

• 2026 cycle: January 20–March 2, 2026Fees vary by country income level:

  • High-income: ~$545 USD

  • Upper-middle: $385

     

  • Lower-middle: $245

  • Low-income: $125

• All fees are non-refundable and unable to be transferred to future cycle

Evaluation & Recertification

• Each submission is reviewed by three subject-matter experts using detailed rubrics for reasoned narrative and quality evidence.

• If unsuccessful, applicants receive feedback on unmet sub-competencies and may retake with only missing items for 50% fee within two cycles.

• The certification is valid for five years. Recertification requires submission of 4 new pieces of evidence and rationale across both domains, plus 20 IPUs (infection prevention units) earned in the last five years, covering at least half the competency domains.

Career Impact & Recognition

• AL‑CIP™ communicates leadership and expertise in IPC beyond certification—it opens doors to executive-level engagement and strategic roles in healthcare settings.

• Real-world leaders report increased credibility, influence on policy, and expanded professional networks upon completing the credential.

Is AL‑CIP™ Right for You?

If you hold CIC® or LTC‑CIP®, and your career in infection prevention features substantial leadership, innovation, and measurable outcomes across multiple settings, AL‑CIP™ lends recognition to your expertise. It’s not just about credentials—it's about demonstrating influence on the profession and aligning IPC initiatives with strategic organizational goals.