Professional Computer Scientist?

Factual Questions
1

Hi,

I am an engineering student, my roommate is a computer science student. When I am done, I will work towards being a Professional Engineer (P.Eng). He claims that he will be a P.C.S, a professional computer scientist.

However, his claims are the first of heard of this designation. Now I know that doctors, lawyers, accountants, etc, etc all have professional designation, but is this also true of computer scientists?

Thanks,

MM

2

Well, it doesn’t seem to be an actual license, like Profesisonal Engineer is, but there is an accreditation group for Computer Science programs.

Computer Science Accreditation Board

Description of Professional Computer Scientist

While he may think he is at the same level of a P.Eng, in this case “Professional” seems to mean “well trained” and “paid” :wink:

He should be glad that he is avoiding liability for anything he codes.

3

Note that “professional” is a vague term without actual specific meaning. OTOH, “engineer” is usually quite restricted by law as to who can say they are one. Hence, there are troubles brewing, esp. in Canada, over CS people who call themselves “Software Engineers.” Anybody can call themselves a professional and not get into any problems unless it involves sports.

The CSAB cert. for CS programs in epeepunk’s link is not at all well respected. Very few of the top CS programs belong. It is a promo thing for West Bluedirt Valley State College. Having a CSAB cert. is usually not a good sign. (One place I used to work at did it since the Chair was on the board that created it. He soon left, the faculty couldn’t get premission to “de-certify” and they hate his guts to this day.)

4

People who drive trains are engineers, even in Canada.

http://www.cn.ca/customercommunications/newsreleases/en_News20000306.shtml

People who run boilers are also engineers.

http://www.iuoe.org/stationary/stationaryfield.htm

So are those who operate heavy equipment like backhoes and bulldozers.

http://www.iuoe.org/training/optrain.htm

5

And Texas. A while back, a lot of the MCSEs in Texas got cease-and-desist letters from the state board that licenses engineers. This caused a lot of righteous indignation among the techies who think a professional license is nothing more than a marketing ploy. epeepunk is right; they should be grateful they don’t have the obligations and liabilities that come with a professional license.