About Professional Development

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Achieving an academic qualification is only the beginning of a naval architect's professional career. The achievement and maintenance of professional competence, especially where it cannot be acquired solely by formal study, necessitates life long professional development. Professional development is the acquisition, maintenance, improvement and broadening of knowledge, understanding and skills, and the development of personal qualities necessary to carry out their professional duties throughout a member's working life.

Whilst this process should be continuous during a career, it is often convenient to consider it as two stages: Initial Professional Development (as an Associate Member) prior to achieving Corporate membership of the Institution (as a Member), and Continuing Professional Development (as a Member or Fellow) thereafter.

Initial Professional Development (IPD)

Initial Professional Development is that part of professional development where a member achieves the standard of professional competence relevant to their employment and experience, that will satisfy the Institution's requirements for Corporate membership. ... More about Initial Professional Development

Professional Review

When the Institution's requirements for professional competence have been achieved, application may be made for Corporate membership. The basis of the application is the Professional Review, through which the applicant will be required to demonstrate that they have met the Institution's requirements for professional competence and commitment to the profession. ... More about the Professional Review

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

During the early years following graduation, the naval architect's focus will be on meeting the Institution's requirements for Corporate membership. However, as a member's career develops, he or she will need to identify the professional development required by their current employment and enhance their future career. Such professional development is also necessary if they are to continue to benefit from the standing and recognition they have already achieved as a Corporate member. The Institution's Code of Professional Conduct obliges all members to maintain their professional competence. ....More about Continuing Professional Development

Professional Development Manual

The Professional Development Manual (PDM) is provided to assist members in their professional development after completion of a suitable academic base. The PDM is designed to be used at any stage of a member's career career, addressing both Initial Professional Development prior to achieving Corporate membership, the application for Corporate membership and Continuing Professional Development after achieving it. Download the Professional Development Manual