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 to be qualified for the examination 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

1. Apply for the Exam
Exam fees are affordable and in many cases paid for by your employer.

2. Prepare for the Exam
Many exam preparation options to choose from: Online course, CSDP Workbook, and more.

3. Take the Exam
Locate and schedule your exam from a flexible list of dates and locations.

The CSDP examination registration fee has two components: the application fee, which is nonrefundable and nontransferable, and the examination fee. All fees must be paid in US dollars, and checks must be drawn from a US bank.

Testing windows and the application deadlines:

For Employees

• Demonstrates your understanding of all aspects of software engineering knowledge and practice
• Shows your commitment to expanding your knowledge and taking on increasing responsibilities
• Differentiates between you and others in a field that has multiple credentials, but only one that was developed by, for, and with software engineering professionals

For Employers

• Provides an objective measurement to help select the right job candidate
• Creates a workforce capable of succeeding in the increasingly competitive global economy
• Gives you independent assurance that employees can perform on real-world projects
• Protects your investment in a competent and proficient workforce