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Conference Spotlight
Nuclear Energy Conference & Expo (NECX)
September 8–11, 2025
Atlanta, GA|Atlanta Marriott Marquis
Standards Program
The Standards Committee is responsible for the development and maintenance of voluntary consensus standards that address the design, analysis, and operation of components, systems, and facilities related to the application of nuclear science and technology. Find out What’s New, check out the Standards Store, or Get Involved today!
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Remembering ANS member Gil Brown
Brown
The nuclear community is mourning the loss of Gilbert Brown, who passed away on July 11 at the age of 77 following a battle with cancer.
Brown, an American Nuclear Society Fellow and an ANS member for nearly 50 years, joined the faculty at Lowell Technological Institute—now the University of Massachusetts–Lowell—in 1973 and remained there for the rest of his career. He eventually became director of the UMass Lowell nuclear engineering program. After his retirement, he remained an emeritus professor at the university.
Sukesh Aghara, chair of the Nuclear Engineering Department Heads Organization, noted in an email to NEDHO members and others that “Gil was a relentless advocate for nuclear energy and a deeply respected member of our professional community. He was also a kind and generous friend—and one of the reasons I ended up at UMass Lowell. He served the university with great dedication. . . . Within NEDHO, Gil was a steady presence and served for many years as our treasurer. His contributions to nuclear engineering education and to this community will be dearly missed.”
Three letters that stand for something greater. The CNP is for all nuclear professionals who take pride in their contributions to a safer, more innovative future.
Earning and maintaining the CNP is a three-part process. Candidates must first submit an application demonstrating eligibility requirements are met. The next step is to sit for and pass the exam. And finally, keep your CNP credential current by renewing every three years.
The CNP is ideal for individuals with at least two years of experience in the nuclear industry. Exam applicants must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent, meet eligibility requirements, and pay a fee ($395 for ANS members; $595 for non-members) at the time of application.
Eligibility Requirements
The CNP exam is offered three times per year, in spring, summer, and fall (applications are being accepted through July 25 for the Summer 2025 testing period). Choose a date that fits well with your schedule and allows you time to prepare. The exam is two and a half hours and contains 100 multiple choice questions.
Exam Dates & Scheduling
Candidates who pass the exam may use the “CNP” designation and share their accomplishment with employers! All CNP's are required to recertify every three years in order to maintain the CNP credential.
CNP Recognition
For more comprehensive information about the CNP credential, please refer to the official handbook.
For questions, please email certification@ans.org.
Download the Handbook
Where can I find more detailed information about the exam?
Why did ANS develop the CNP credential?
ANS created the CNP credential to support both individuals and organizations within the nuclear field.
For professionals, the CNP offers a structured way to learn and demonstrate foundational knowledge of nuclear science and technology, helping to advance their careers and establish credibility.
For employers, it provides a valuable benchmark to help assess and qualify candidates, ensuring a recognized standard of expertise and experience.
Additionally, the CNP strengthens ANS’s role in the industry by reinforcing its leadership and commitment to professional excellence—particularly within the commercial nuclear utility sector.
Why should I become a Certified Nuclear Professional (CNP)?
The CNP credential was created by ANS to give nuclear professionals—and those aspiring to enter the field—a way to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in nuclear science and technology. Earning the CNP supports your professional growth, strengthens your resume, and shows your commitment to excellence in the nuclear field.
Who can earn the Certified Nuclear Professional (CNP) credential?
The CNP credential is intended for individuals who have at least two years of professional experience in the nuclear industry and are seeking to validate their knowledge and commitment to excellence in this critical field.
The certification is well-suited for early to mid-career professionals working in areas such as nuclear operations, regulatory compliance, quality assurance, safety, or project management.
View Eligibility Requirements
How do you earn the Certified Nuclear Professional (CNP) credential?
The CNP credential is earned by passing the CNP exam which is offered three times per year, in spring, summer, and fall. All CNP's are required to recertify every three years in order to maintain the CNP credential.
Upcoming Exam Dates
If my application is approved, where will I take the CNP exam?
Exams are administered in-person at Pearson VUE testing centers. Click "Find a Test Center" on the Pearson VUE website.
Go To Pearson VUE
What topics does the CNP exam cover?
The CNP exam covers 8 content areas, including:
Exam Content Outline
