Re: AAHP survey (6/95 HPS newsletter)

[jgbarnes@ix.netcom.com (JAMES BARNES)]

You wrote: 
>
>I thought I would offer my unsought opinion relating to one of the 
questions
>in the AAP survey, just to see if I can stir something up.
>
>Question: Should the ABHP have minimum academic degree requirements?
>

The degree requirement has been accused of promoting an "elitist" 
agenda.  In my own case, I completed my degree (through NY Regents 
College) after working as a technician for about 15 years, then passed 
my CHP.  While the degree work was useful, I suspect I could have 
passed the CHP anyway--degree or no degree.

In general, however, I think the degree requirement is probably 
appropriate, IF the Board continues to accept those that were earned 
through non-traditional programs (NY Regents, Thomas Edison, etc.) and 
if it avoids some type of "approved institution" approach.  These 
programs are readily available to (and affordable by) working 
technicians.  I think they are probably the main source of future CHP 
candidates who would be impacted by the change in policy.


Jim Barnes
RSO, Rocketdyne Division (Rockwell International)
Los Angeles