CHP degree requirement

["Rima, Steven D" <SDRIMA@saix367.sandia.gov>]

     Just another opinion on the new AAHP degree requirement...
     
     I am glad to see discussion on the new requirement. Thanks for 
     starting it, Les.
     
     I wrote the AAHP concerning this topic as soon as it was announced. 
     (See the CHP Corner in the February, 1995 HPS Newsletter.) I raised 
     four specific concerns with the change in policy. The AAHP "responded" 
     to my letter, but did not really address the concerns I raised. I 
     believe more discussion and investigation needs to be done prior to 
     implementing the new policy.
     
     One specific concern I have not seen addressed on this forum so far:
     
     As we all know, certification is often a key factor in employer hiring 
     and promotion decisions. As such, any change in the prerequisites can 
     affect careers, promotions, and raises. As a corporate officer who has 
     been involved with Affirmative Action and EEO "stuff", the change 
     concerns me. Without firm, documented, defendable reasons to change 
     the entry requirement, (which I don't believe the AAHP has), someone 
     in the future that meets the present credit requirement could sue the 
     AAHP to take the exam without a degree. From what I have seen and been 
     involved with, the AAHP would not have a prayer of winning something 
     like this. We, as CHPs, should carefully consider a change such as 
     this, and possibly get a legal opinion, before implementing it.
     
     Are we elitist??? I hope not, but that sure seems to be the perception 
     to "outsiders." (Ask some non-certified coworkers and see what kind of 
     answers you get!)