There are four stages of the application process for companies to become fully accredited.
Stage one
To apply for accreditation of a university placement programme, submit three hard copies of the application form and three copies of relevant material eg training policy, competence criteria, prospectus. Further information can be found in the guidance notes.
Universities are invited to send in draft applications by email for review. If you would like your draft application form reviewed please email it to ipd@imeche.org
If you have any queries please contact the IPD helpline on 020 8973 1250 or email: ipd@imeche.org
Stage two
Once your application has been received by the IMechE it will be reviewed by a Professionally Registered Engineer, experienced in professional development programmes. After this review your application is accepted by IMechE and registered with a unique reference number. At this point young engineers may be registered on the MPD Scheme.
Stage three
An accreditation visit will be arranged, normally within six to nine months from registration, provided there are young engineers registered on the scheme. The accreditation visit will last a full day (normally between 10am - 4pm) and will aim to access the following:
- Evidence of High level support and commitment
- Access and support for Developing Engineers’ whose academic portfolios require a Further Learning plan
- Support for mentor training
Ensure that e-MPDS records are up to date
The level of internal support for the scheme (ie. scheme co-ordinator, line mangers, industry liaison officers and mentors)
Further guidance on the format of the visit day can be found from the accreditation visit agenda
There is no charge for IMechE accreditation visits
Stage four
Following the accreditation visit, the visiting team’s report is sent to members of the Professional Development Standards Committee (PDSC) for review. The decision by the Committee to accredit a company is based on the application, the accreditation visit and report. If successful the period of accreditation will be granted from the date of the accreditation visit.
You will be formally notified in writing of the success of your accreditation and of any recommendations made by the Committee. If you would like to order a certificate of your accreditation please complete a certificate registration form and return to the IMechE.
If accreditation is not recommended, full support and advice will be provided, highlighting areas that need to be modified to achieve accreditation.
Joint Accreditation Visits
Joint accreditation visits can be arranged with other Institutions, although decisions are reached independently and may differ. However, IMechE and other engineering Institutions continue to work closely to maximise the benefits of joint accreditation visits.
Overseas Applicants
Applicants operating outside the UK mainland must meet the total costs of an accreditation visit, including all travel, accommodation and other relevant expenses.
