Mutual Society
Mutual Recognition of Professional Qualifications with Overseas Professional Organisations
Over a number of years the Society has been seeking to conclude agreements with a number of overseas professional organisations under which we would mutually recognise the equivalence of each other’s professional qualification (title). Such agreements have been in place for some time with the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (Certified Petroleum Geologist, CPG and Petroleum Geophysicist); and with the Institute of Geologists of Ireland (Professional Geologist, PGeo).
Late last year, the Society concluded an agreement with the American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG) following a review that established that the aims and objectives of both organisations, and the peer review processes, although they differ in detail are equally exacting and broadly comparable. As a result the two organisations have agreed to recognise the equivalence of the titles of Chartered Geologist (CGeol) and Certified Professional Geologist (CPG). This agreement can be seen on the Society’s web site under Chartership and Professional.
The AIPG will accept applications for the CPG title from Fellows holding the CGeol title with a single sponsorship affidavit from the Society affirming their professional status, and vice versa. This provides an accelerated application process that does not require the submission of academic transcripts or certified employment details. A simple application form for a CGeol looking to become a CPG is being prepared and will be available on the Society’s web site shortly in the Chartership and Professional pages The AIPG will provide a similar form for CPGs wishing to gain CGeol . In addition it has been agreed that holders of CGeol may sponsor applicants for the CPG title and similarly CPGs may sponsor applicants for CGeol.
Discussions are continuing with Geoscientists Canada to explore the scope for establishing a mutual recognition agreement covering all the Canadian jurisdictions.