Professional Certification (PPhys)

As a measure to elevate the profession of Physicist in the eyes of students and employers alike, the CAP launched its Professional Physicist / physicien(ne) designation at the CAP Annual Congress in June, 1999. Since then, the Trademark Committee has worked hard towards the implementation of the certification process, including the adoption of a code of ethics for licensees, the striking of a Professional Certification Committee, the filing of a Trademark application, and the development of the Professional Practice Examination (PPE).

The Canadian Association of Physicists (CAP) is pleased to offer a professional certification program for its members. All CAP members who meet (or will shortly meet) the criteria, including graduate students, are invited to apply.

Undergraduate students (in fourth year physics or closely related programs), graduate students, and recently graduated physicists who do not yet qualify for exemption from the PPE are encouraged to write the Professional Certification exam when it is offered. They can then gain certification once they have completed the other requirements. The exam will be offered annually in the latter part of January in physics departments across the country.

Any questions regarding the Professional Certification Program can be emailed to our Certification Coordinator.