Certified Biological Safety Professional (CBSP)

A Certified Biological Safety Professional (CBSP) is an experienced biosafety practitioner with a documented foundation in microbiology and demonstrated responsibility for managing or overseeing a biosafety program. CBSPs are internationally recognized for their expertise, professionalism, and ongoing commitment to advancing biosafety. To qualify for the CBSP credential, applicants must have successfully completed one accredited, 3-credit course titled Microbiology or Molecular Biology. The CBSP designation is awarded upon approval of the application and successful completion of the CBSP Examination. The CBSP Exam is developed by members of ABSA International’s Exam Development Board and administered by ABSA International. Application materials include official transcripts or evaluation reports, documented coursework, verification of biological safety experience, and three (3) professional references. CBSP Candidate Criteria To qualify for the CBSP credential and be eligible to sit for the CBSP exam, applicants must have successfully completed one accredited, 3-credit course titled Microbiology or Molecular Biology. Additional microbiology-related credits may be earned through courses listed under Acceptable Course Categories on the application. Courses with the words microbiology, bacteriology, or microbial in the title are generally acceptable. PPB® and BBTC® credits may be listed but do not replace the required microbiology course. Applicants must also provide sufficient detail describing their biosafety-related responsibilities, demonstrating the scope, complexity, and program-level management necessary for the CEB to evaluate eligibility for the CBSP credential. Acceptable Coursework If a course is not specifically listed under Acceptable Course Titles, applicants may submit an official course description from the institution’s catalog for consideration. Courses must emphasize the study of microorganisms to be eligible. Biosafety Experience In addition to microbiology coursework, applicants must demonstrate post-baccalaureate professional experience, with at least 51% effort dedicated to biosafety program management. “Biosafety program management” does not require serving as the sole biosafety officer. Work performed as part of a biosafety or EHS team with significant biosafety responsibilities qualifies. Routine technical tasks, such as writing SOPs, do not constitute program management. Academic Transcripts Overview Official academic transcripts are required. For international applicants, a degree verification and course-by-course evaluation in English must be submitted directly from a NACES-recognized evaluation agency. Additional information about NACES requirements and acceptable evaluation services is provided later on this webpage. Professional References Applicants must provide three (3) professional references. Completed reference forms must be submitted directly by the individuals providing them, and only the contacts listed on your application may submit a reference on your behalf.