BCSP has changed the education requirement for the Certified Safety Professional (CSP) certification to require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, effective July 2, 2018. CSPs who applied for their certification with an associate degree must meet the new requirement no later than February 28, 2021 (extended from December 31, 2020). They may submit proof of having obtained a bachelor’s degree or use the CSP Online Education Program to demonstrate they possess a satisfactory level of knowledge in a number of professional development topics identified as skills/knowledge areas determined to meet the CSP educational requirement.
1) Who has to participate in BCSP’s CSP Online Education Program?
CSPs who hold an associate degree must participate in the online educational program to demonstrate education equivalency compliance to continue using the CSP certification.
2) Why does BCSP have this requirement?
So that the CSP continues to lead as the Gold Standard of safety, health, and environmental (SH&E) certifications, demonstrating the value of those who hold the certification, BCSP will require applicants hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree beginning July 2, 2018. CSPs who applied before that date without a minimum of a bachelor’s degree must meet the new education requirement by February 28, 2021.
3) What if I applied with an associate degree but now have a bachelor’s or higher?
If you have a minimum of an accredited bachelor’s degree in any field, please send BCSP a copy of your official academic transcript with your degree awarded and conferred date from the issuing university. Having your transcript on file will demonstrate your compliance with the CSP education requirement and no further action will be required.
Transcripts may be sent by email or university eScript to educationprogram@bcsp.org or mailed to:
Certification Services
Board of Certified Safety Professionals
8645 Guion Road
Indianapolis, IN 46268
4) How long do I have to complete the CSP Online Education Program?
You must complete the online education program no later than February 28, 2021.
5) How many times can I take the assessments?
You will be able to retake the assessments as many times as needed before March 1, 2021.
6) What if I am no longer actively working in the safety profession?
Certificants who have held the CSP for more than ten (10) years and completed two (2) recertification cycles may choose to hold the CSP in retired status if they will exceed no more than 200 hours of safety practice annually. They will not be able to reinstate to active status unless they obtain a bachelor’s degree or complete the equivalency courses no later than February 28, 2021, but they may continue to hold the CSP-Retired.
7) What happens if I do not have a qualifying academic degree or choose not to complete the education program by the deadline date?
You will not be eligible to hold the CSP certification and your certification will be invalidated on March 1, 2021.
8) How will BCSP know I have successfully completed the online education program?
Once you receive a passing score for all four courses, you will be awarded a Certificate of Achievement that can be downloaded as a PDF; please keep a copy of the certificate for your records. BCSP will have an internal record that you have successfully satisfied the equivalent to the CSP education requirement.
9) Will I receive recertification points for completing the online education program?
Yes, you will receive 1.1 recertification points if you are currently an active CSP. BCSP staff will enter the points into your record.
10) Does it cost me anything to take the course?
No, it is complimentary for CSP candidates and certificate holders who are affected by the educational requirement qualification change.
11) Who do I contact if I have questions about the online education program?
BCSP Certification Services Department, +1 317-593-4800 or educationprogram@bcsp.org.
It is BCSP’s goal to ensure all certified professionals meet professional standards.