Professional Certification
Certified Economic Developer (Ec.D.)
The program is designed to identify competencies, both in academic background and practical experience. The professional so qualifying will be granted the professional designation, Certified Economic Developer (Ec.D.) that will signify his credentials. This designation requires re-certification every three years.
For those wishing to complete the economic development education program and obtain their professional designation (the EcD), the following criteria apply: 1) A minimum of three years of economic development experience and 2) a minimum accumulation of 45 points is required to apply to write the certification examination.
The point system which became effective January1, 1988 (updated 1993) is as follows: (Revised - January 1997).
- Completion of EDAC Year 1 (University of Waterloo) 10 points
- Completion of EDAC Year 1 (University of Sherbrooke) 10 points
- Completion of EDAC Year 2 (University of Waterloo) 10 points
- Completion of EDAC Year 2 (University of Sherbrooke) 10 points
- Completion of EDAC, University of Waterloo Thesis 10 points
- Completion of University of Sherbrooke Examination 15 points
- EDAC - Conference (obtained within the past three years) 2 points
- EDAC - Pre-Conference Seminars 8 points
- Relevant Degree* (Undergrad) 10 points
- Relevant Graduate Degree** 5 points
- Masters - MAES 20 points
- EDAC Accredited Courses (Various, to a maximum of) 20 points
* A relevant undergraduate degree must contain course work in at least five(5) technical skill areas.
** A relevant graduate degree must specialize in one (1) of the eleven (11) technical skill areas.(Transcripts must be supplied to the EDAC office).
The following SEDA Modules and Provincial Events carry the associated value towards EcD certification*:
- Successful completion of SEDA Modules I through IV 8 points
- SEDA Provincial Conferences 2 points
- SEDA Business Retention & Expansion Workshop 4 points
- The Pacific Institute Investing in Your Community Leadership Program 5 points
- Cluster Facilitator Training 6 points
- APEC Business Counseling Program 6 points
*SEDA education offerings and conferences together with accredited EDAC courses cannot exceed a maximum of 20 points towards EcD certification.
Re-Certification
This is a mandatory aspect of the program. Continuing education has been deemed vital for re-certification once every three years. All Certified Economic Developers will have to demonstrate that they have maintained competence through continuing education, which includes attendance at accredited programs.
For more information on the Certified Economic Developer (Ec.D.) visit www.edac.ca. or contact Penny Gardiner EDAC Executive Director at admin@edac.ca
