The CSDP credential is intended for mid-career software development professionals that want to confirm their proficiency of standard software development practices and advance in their careers.
Who is eligible to take the CSDP?
If you are a Senior Member of IEEE or a Licensed Software Engineer, no further qualifications are necessary. All other candidates are required to meet both Education and Experience requirements as outlined below.
Education: (need at least one)
- You have a bachelor's degree
- You are a CSDA certificate holder
- You are an educator at the post-baccalaureate level
- You are a full member of the IEEE
Experience: (need at least one)
- You have an advanced degree in software engineering and at least two years (about 3,500 hrs) of experience in software engineering/development
- You have at least four years (about 7,000 hrs) experience in software engineering/development
Get Certified in 3 Easy Steps
1 | Apply for the Exam
Exam fees are affordable and in many cases paid for by your employer. See the Fees and Testing Information section below. |
| APPLY |
2 | Prepare for the Exam
Exam preparation options include the CSDP e-learning course, which is an on-line, self-paced course. |
| PREPARE |
3 | Take the Exam
Locate and schedule your exam at most Prometric test centers world-wide. The current exam window ends on 12/12/09. |
| TEST |
Fees and Testing Information
The CSDP e-learning system includes six (6) months of access for a candidate. The CSDP examination fee includes a $100 processing fee, which is nonrefundable and nontransferable. All fees must be paid in US dollars, and checks must be drawn from a US bank.
| | IEEE or IEEE Computer
Society Members | Non-Members |
| CSDP e-learning course | $395* | $495* |
| Total Examination Fee | $450* | $550* |
| Bundle package (e-learning and exam) | $695* | $795* |
* Prices subject to tax charges. Click here for more information.
Testing windows and the application deadlines:
Testing Window
4 January - 18 March 2010 (current CSDP exam)
19 March - 3 July 2010 (refreshed CSDP exam)
16 August - 17 December 2010 (refreshed CSDP exam) | Application Deadline
18 February 2010
3 June 2010
17 November 2010 |
