On September 1, 2018, DBIA will release revised coursework and updated examinations for those seeking DBIA™ and Assoc. DBIA™ certification. As the industry evolves and advances, it is important that a credentialing program keep pace with these changes. The updated curriculum and exam will help ensure that what is being taught is relevant to the body of knowledge needed for success in the field of study. Below are some frequently asked questions and answers about the new coursework and exam. Additional questions should be directed to certification@dbia.org.
How long will the current version of the core curriculum and exam be available?
The current version of the core curriculum will be taught through August 31, 2018. Those taking the current version of the core curriculum will have until April 1, 2019 to take the exam associated with this curriculum.
What happens if I have taken the current curriculum but do not take the exam by April 1, 2019?
The current exam will phase out completely as of April 1, 2019. Those who do not complete the exam associated with the current curriculum by this date will need to take the new certification workshop and will be required to take the new exam.
When will the updated core curriculum and the exam be officially released?
DBIA will begin teaching the updated curriculum and administering the new exam on September 1, 2018.
If the new curriculum will not be released until September 1, why is there a “beta test” using the new curriculum on July 10-12?
The beta test is a way to ensure that the new curriculum and exam appropriately reflects the scope of professional practice in design-build, and that the examination is defensible and fair. The beta test will also provide statistical data needed to set the new exam cut score (passing score).
How will the new coursework and exam be different from the current version?
The new coursework and exam will still cover all the domains covered in the current versions. In addition, however, they will reflect updates to best practices as outlined in DBIA’s Design-Build Done Right® resources, including the recently adopted Code of Professional Conduct for credential holders.
Will there be a new examination prep course to help students prepare for the new exam?
Yes, a new examination prep course will be created after the July beta test. It is important to wait until after the beta test to make any necessary updates or changes to the course content prior to developing a prep course.
Will the new courses have the same title and be the same length?
The revised course titles will be:
- Principles of Design-Build Delivery and Procurement
- Post Award: Executing the Delivery of the Design-Build Project
- Contracts and Risk Management.
Each course is a full day (approximately 8:00am–5:00pm). In addition to these in-person courses, those seeking certification will be required to complete a 90–120 minute webinar focused on DBIA’s Code of Professional Conduct.