About the CO-OP® Credential & Other Levels of Designation
Stand Out and Make a Difference!
Are you interested in gaining new recognition for your role as an organizational ombuds? Become a Certified Organizational Ombudsman Practitioner®.
The Board of Certification for Certified Organizational Ombudsman Practitioners® offers three levels of designation: CO-OP®, Candidate for CO-OP®, and Inactive CO-OP®. Learn more about each level by watching our quick intro video below.
Are you looking for information about the CO-OP® Examination? Visit the Exam Page for more details about how the exam works as well as the dates for any upcoming exams.
Gain Recognition: Enhance your credibility and professional standing with the organization(s) that you serve
Invest in Your Career: Demonstrate your professional knowledge and skills to build your career development opportunities
Show Commitment: Accentuate your dedication to the profession and the IOA Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics
Distinguish Yourself: Stand out by joining an elite community of professionals
Strengthen and Professionalize the Organizational Ombudsman field
How to Earn & Maintain One of the Three Levels of Recognition:
STEP 1:
Register to take the CO-OP® Examination. Pass the exam with a score of 405 or higher.
STEP 2:
Apply to become a Candidate for CO-OP®. This level allows ombuds who are unable to fulfill the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics requirements due to organizational limitations to receive a new level of recognition.
OR
Apply to become a Certified Organizational Ombudsman Practitioner®. If you are able to fulfill the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics requirements for full recognition submit your application after taking the exam.
Apply for Inactive CO-OP® Status. If you have previously held the CO-OP® credential and are no longer able to meet the requirements of CO-OP® credential you can move to Inactive CO-OP® Status. This will allow you to hold your state and not need to start the process over from the beginning if they later want to recertify.