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CPHR Post-Secondary Institution Accreditation Program
Post-Secondary Institution (PSI) Accreditation Program & National Knowledge Exam (NKE) Waiver Overview
Graduates of an Accredited program may be eligible to apply for a waiver for the National Knowledge Exam (NKE), the academic exam that assesses your understanding of the CPHR Competency Framework.
With a successful waiver application, you become a CPHR Candidate and are one step closer to receiving your CPHR designation.
Post-secondary programs are qualified to be accredited if it is determined that the content offered meets at least 80% of the CPHR Competency Framework.
Post-secondary institutions in Nova Scotia that have an HR program submit an application to CPHR Nova Scotia. It will be reviewed to ensure that it meets this standard. All approved applications then become accredited and will appear on the list of Accredited Post-Secondary HR Programs.
Eligibility
If you graduate from a CPHR Nova Scotia Accredited Post-Secondary HR Program with an average of 70% or more (or grade-point equivalent), you can apply to waive the NKE. For more information, view the eligibility chart below:
Institution & Program Grade Requirement Graduate Advantage Discount Waiver Application Deadline
Human Resource Management Graduate Certificate Cumulative marks of 70% or higher 25% off waiver application fee if completed within a year of graduation Within 5 years of graduating
Bachelor of Commerce with a major in Human Resources and Industrial Relations Cumulative marks of 2.70 GPA or higher 25% off waiver application fee if completed within a year of graduation Within 5 years of graduating
Human Resources Management Certificate (Sobey School of Business) Cumulative marks of 2.70 GPA or higher 25% off waiver application fee if completed within a year of graduation Within 5 years of graduating
Human Resources Management Certificate - Psychology Option Cumulative marks of 2.70 GPA or higher 25% off waiver application fee if completed within a year of graduation Within 5 years of graduating
Bachelor of Business Administration degree majoring in Strategic Human Resources Management Cumulative marks of 2.70 GPA or higher 25% off waiver application fee if completed within a year of graduation Within 5 years of graduating
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a Concentration in HR Cumulative marks of 2.70 GPA or higher 25% off waiver application fee if completed within a year of graduation Within 5 years of graduating
CPHR Academic Program from Captus Institute Average of 70% or higher (no course below 65%) 25% off waiver application fee if completed within a year of graduation Within 5 years of graduating
If you are currently residing in Nova Scotia and are a graduate of an accredited program from another province listed here, please contact us and request the NKE Waiver Application.
Wondering if you qualify for the accredited pathway? Complete the form here.
Complete the Form
NKE Waiver - Application and Fees
NKE Waiver fee: $400 + HST (subject to change without notice)
Members who complete the waiver application within 12 months of graduates will be eligible for the Graduate Advantage Discount of 25% off the waiver application fee. Email us for more information on how to receive the discount code.
Email for Discount Code
Steps to waiving the NKE:
  • Be a current member with CPHR Nova Scotia (member dues are in addition to the NKE Waiver Application)
  • Complete the NKE Waiver Application with payment. To request the NKE Waiver Application, send us an email
  • Request an official transcript be sent directly to our office from the granting institution
  • Once verified, CPHR Nova Scotia will approve your waiver and you will be officially recognized as a CPHR Candidate
Request the NKE Waiver Application
Important note: This waiver applies to the NKE only. All other steps required to obtain the designation will apply and can be found here.
More questions? View the FAQ or contact our office at hello@cphrns.ca
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