Becoming Chartered by the Institute

Why Become Chartered?

Physics is an integral part of our culture, providing the foundations for many scientific disciplines including chemistry, biology, the geo-sciences and engineering. The increase in wealth, globalisation, living standards and the quality of life in the 20th century was largely based on technological progress which in turn relied heavily on innovative research in physics. These trends are anticipated to continue in the 21st Century.

In recognition of this the Institute has strengthened the standard for Chartered Physicist and made it a valuable mark of excellence. Chartered Physicists agree to be bound by a Code of Conduct that reflects best practice. The Code requires our members not only to show a high level of professionalism, but also to continually advance their competence through continuing professional development.

The Institute also offers Chartered Engineer and Chartered Scientist to its multidisciplinary members.

The title Chartered Physicist is exclusive to the Institute of Physics. Chartered Engineer is maintained by the Engineering Council UK and Chartered Scientist by the Science Council.

Chartered status stands for the highest standards of professionalism, up-to-date expertise, quality and safety, and for capacity to undertake independent practice and exercise leadership. As well as competence, the title denotes commitment to keep pace with advancing knowledge and with the increasing expectations and requirements for which any profession must take responsibility.

Chartered status is the aspiration of members engaged at the leading edge of all fields of physics and its applications.

The Standard of Chartered Status

In a profession as dynamic as physics the best never stand still. Similarly, the requirements for attaining and maintaining chartered status have advanced considerably since their introduction and are kept under continuous review. Physicists who are chartered are professionals who are at the leading edge of their field.

People employ Chartered Physicists for good business reasons. Chartered Physicists provide sound advice and professional judgement, based on up-to-date skills. Chartered Physicists are cost-effective, outcome-orientated, take a holistic approach and are sensitive to all agenda. To an employer, it means an assurance of quality, accountability and superior value for money.

What does it mean to the employer?

• Provides evidence of a commitment by the employer to society and high standards
• Indicates that the employee values and abides by the IOP code of conduct
• Facilitates both staff benchmarking and competences
• Assists with promotion and salary benchmarking
• Supports the recruitment process
• Is valued by clients and external stakeholders

Which physicists graduate to Chartered Status?

Those who:

• Believe in professionalism and the importance of belonging to a professional body
• Through continuing education, personal development and acceptance of ethical standards, seek to distinguish themselves from other scientific and engineering practitioners
• See that Chartered Status and the effective marketing of it by the Institute of Physics provides the professional standing and recognition that they seek.
• Wish to practise within physics and its applications and accept full responsibility for their work standards
• Wish to gain opportunities to practise in their field for the benefit of the wider community
• Wish to increase community confidence in physicists

Why are graduates and experienced staff graduating to chartered status?

Academic qualifications are only the beginning of a career in physics and its applications. The need for continuing professional development is widely recognised to be the mechanism by which professionals maintain their knowledge after the formal education process has been completed. Chartered status signals a commitment to maintaining competence and moving ahead with the times.

The world is also becoming increasingly competitive. A job-for-life is a thing of the past and chartered status is rapidly becoming a vital pre-requisite for continued employability.

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