Certified Interpretive Planner™

The Certified Interpretive Planner (CIP™) professional certification recognizes individuals with expertise in interpretive planning and experience creating effective interpretive plans for sites and media.

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Before You Apply

The Certified Interpretive Planner certification is meant for experienced interpretive planners who have at least four years of experience in the field.

Take this quick self-assessment to see if you are ready to start the certification process.

1. Have you been doing interpretive planning related work for at least four years (8,000 hours)?
2. Have you created at least three complete interpretive plans?
3. Have you acted as the facilitator for a planning process that involved multiple internal and external stakeholders?
4. Do you have all the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below?

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

To become a CIP, you should have advanced knowledge of:

• The interpretive planning process and facilitating interpretive planning
• Assessing interpretive content and logistical operations at interpretive sites
• Cost estimating and market analysis
• Development of thematic and media guidelines
• Writing measurable objectives
• Front-end formative and summative evaluation
• The basic principles of interpretation
• The history of the profession of interpretation

How do I become a CIP?

To become a CIP, you will need to show proof of eligibility for the credential, complete an online application, and pay an application fee.

Eligibility

To apply for professional certification, a Verification of Work Experience form is available for you to demonstrate your eligibility through the completion of a recommended four years (8,000 hours) of relevant work experience. Or, you may upload your resume containing your work history and academic achievements to demonstrate your eligibility.

Application Materials

CIP applicants will receive an application packet outlining specific requirements and instructions for completion. In general, applicants will need to submit:

• Answers to a 50 question, multiple choice, literature review
• Answers to four of six essay questions (500 words or less)
• Two examples of interpretive plans you created
• An in-depth reflection of your interpretive planning experience

Cost

Application Fee: $200

Payment must be made in order for you to receive your application packet.

Recertification

This certification is valid for four years. To recertify you must:

• Obtain 40 continuing education hours every four years