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Certification for IndividualsCertified Organizational OmbudsStand Out to Make a Difference!Are you interested in taking your role as organizational ombuds to a new level by becoming certified through the International Ombuds Association? This exciting new option — the only certification credential offered for the organizational ombuds — is designed to help you:
How to Apply to Become a Certified Organizational OmbudsAll applicants for the Certified Organizational Ombuds designation must submit a complete application packet and pay the nonrefundable administrative application fee of $250 USD for IOA Members and $450 for Non-Members. The complete application packet consists of the online application form, proof of passing the certification exam, and any supporting documents. Any supplemental materials must be attached to the online application form. Prepare for Your Certification ApplicationComplete Individual Certification Application FormThe Eligibility Committee will schedule an interview with the applicant and inform if any additional materials are required. The Eligibility Committee will endeavor to notify applicants of their final determination within 90 days of receiving the complete application packet. Official notification of certification status will be sent to the applicant via email. Certification Eligibility RequirementsCandidates must demonstrate knowledge of the organizational ombuds function by passing a written examination. Candidates must also demonstrate relevant education and experience. A candidate must have passed the written certification examination prior to submitting an application for certification.
In order to sit for the exam, you need to attest that you have at least 2,000 hours of experience working as an organizational ombuds within the last four years.
The certification application requires a copy of the certification examination results statement documenting the date of passing the examination. Passing the exam is only once piece of the process to become certified.
Certification requires a bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited institution of higher education. Those who do not hold a bachelor's degree may submit evidence of a comparable university degree. The Eligibility Committee may also consider relevant professional experience or academic work in place of a bachelor's degree. Candidates may submit proof of relevant professional experience to the Eligibility Committee for individual consideration.
Applicants must complete a minimum of 80 hours of education or training based on Professional Development Hours (PDH) standards. This training must include Foundations or an equivalent program, or a suitable substitute that ensures a strong understanding of the Organizational Ombuds (OO) model.
Certification also requires completing the application form in full, and submitting it for review by the Board of Certification, with all requisite supporting documentation and payment of a non-refundable certification application administrative fee. You can find all that is required for the application here.
Application fee: $250 USD for IOA Members and $450 for Non-Members
Certification Appeal ProcedureIf a candidate's application for certification is denied by the Eligibility Committee, the candidate may appeal the decision. The appeal must be submitted in writing to the Appeals Committee within 30 days of receipt of notification of denial, and sent to: Appeals Committee, IOA-Board of Certification Email: [email protected] The appeal must contain a statement of why the individual believes that the denial was improper and must be accompanied by supporting documentation. The Appeals Committee will notify the candidate within seven business days of its receipt of the appeal and will endeavor to render a decision within a period of 30 days. The decision by the Appeals Committee will be final. Certification Appeal Form |