Certified Professionals are frequently called on to provide information on issues pertaining to the designated sciences and public concern. Professional standards have been recognized in such professions as medicine, law, engineering, and accounting. Problem solving in land-use, crop production, water management, and the use of agricultural chemicals create a need for the services of professionals in plant pathology and related sciences. Such professionals must be able to show evidence of their qualifications. A certification program that identifies professionals for educational, scientific and service activities with public and private agencies is within the public interest.
Certification is for individuals only.
Possess a bachelor's degree from a U.S. institution with a major in plant pathology, or a closely allied field of science or equivalent, meet the minimum core requirements for the area of certification, and have five years of professional experience working in the field of plant pathology. Experience while working toward an advanced degree does not qualify. Possess a master's degree from a U.S. institution with a major in plant pathology or a closely allied field of science or equivalent, meet the minimum core requirements for the area of certification, and have three years of professional experience working in the field of plant pathology. Experience gained while working toward an advanced degree does not qualify. Possess a doctorate degree from a U. S. institution with a major in plant pathology or a closely allied field of science or equivalent, meet the minimum core requirements for the area of certification, and have one year of professional experience working in the field of plant pathology.