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The Vanguard certification program is on an indefinite hold. However, a free copy of the syllabus is still available for anyone who wishes to know the requirements for a competent handwriting professional. We recommend the AHAF certification program in the meantime (contact Heidi Harralson at hapiwriter@aol.com for information.) Contact Sheila Lowe with any questions at sheila@sheilalowe.com
To download the Syllabus and application form (you'll need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open it), click here
Although there is no licensing requirement for handwriting professionals, there are certification programs that allow the graphologist to test their knowledge and skills. In passing such a test, the graphologist knows they have reached a certain level of competence, which provides an extra level of comfort for their clients. It also shows that they care about standards and excellence.
Two Professional-Level certification examinations and an intern-level examination (not for certification) are now available through The Vanguard. For entrance requirements and a Syllabus, contact Sheila Lowe at sheila@sheilalowe.com.
General Information
Entrance Requirements
Entry is open to handwriting analysts of all schools of study. No specific course or organization membership is required. However, applicants must meet a minimum education requirement (see below for details). Evidence of completion of course work may be obtained by certificate or letter of recommendation from the instructor. If the applicant has self-studied only, a reading list will be required. A Recommended Reading List of graphology and psychology texts is included with the Syllabus.
The Vanguard Certification Program
I. Intern Examination - Basic Principles of Handwriting Analysis and Psychology
The Intern Examination is open to all, regardless of expertise. The primary objective is to evaluate the candidate’s knowledge of basic graphological and psychological principles and theory. The examination is designed for entry level applicants whose goal is to meet the minimum requirements for Board Certification and begin the professional practice of handwriting analysis. Administered by mail, it is not an open book test but relies on the Honor system.
The Intern Examination consists of essay, multiple choice, and true/false questions. The applicant will receive by mail handwriting samples and questions about each sample. The completed examination is to be returned within 30 days (extensions may be granted at the discretion of the examiners). Those who achieve a passing score will receive a Certificate of Successful Completion. This is not a certification, but counts toward certification requirements.
The Intern applicant is required to:
Complete the application and affidavit
Submit a sample of their own handwriting
Pay the appropriate fee
BCHP & BCEP Examinations
II. Board Certified Handwriting Professional (BCHP) - Advanced Graphological & Psychological Theory & Ethics
The purpose of the Advanced examination is to forge a benchmark, a standard of excellence for professionals currently in practice. Only graphologists with outstanding knowledge, experience, and skills should expect to achieve the designation, BCHP.
The examination is in two parts:
Part I - Qualifying (by mail)
The applicant will receive copies of handwriting samples about which she or he is expected to write a brief report (500-750 words) on each and fully justify the findings graphologically. The report should address the following areas: Ego Strength, Intellectual Interests, Social Behavior, Emotional Intensity, Drives & Stamina, Coping Mechanisms. The candidate must be able to demonstrate an accurate understanding of the core personality of the writer, based on knowledge of normal and abnormal psychology. The completed examination must be returned within 45 days (extensions may be granted at the discretion of the examiners). If the applicant successfully completes Part One, she or he will qualify to sit for Part Two, which will take place on-site at the Vanguard Conference.
Part II (at the Conference)
The on-site segment of the BCHP Examination consists of essay questions, multiple choice, and true/false questions in graphology, psychological theories of personality, and ethical questions. Three hours is the maximum time allotted for the examination.
Part III. Board Certified in Employment Profiling (BCEP) - Practical Graphology (special module administered at the Conference)
The purpose of the BCEP Examination is an assessment of the applicant’s knowledge of basic employment laws, the client-analyst relationship, and ability to provide accurate, relevant results for various employment situations. It is an advanced examination for professionals specifically engaged in handwriting analysis in the employment field.
The examination consists of essay questions, multiple choice and true/false questions. Three hours is the maximum time allotted. The BCEP certificate is separate and distinct from the BCHP.
Applications for the BCHP & BCEP examinations may be submitted by handwriting professionals who have completed the requirements below in education and/or experience:
Minimum of five years working in the field or three years study under the supervision of a mentor/instructor; or certification by a professional handwriting organization, and:
Complete the application
Submit two personal recommendations, preferably by known handwriting professionals
Copy of a professional analysis prepared for a client
Curriculum Vitae
Professional promotional materials (brochures, business cards)
Handwriting sample discussing “Why I applied for Vanguard certification.”
Sign Vanguard Code of Ethics
Payment of appropriate fee
Grandfathering
The Board Certified Handwriting Professional certificate is available by waiver of examination until December 31, 1997. Handwriting professionals who wish to apply for grandfathering must have at least ten years experience and have made some significant contribution to the field. All other entrance requirements must be satisfied.
Examination Fees:
| Intern Examination |
$100 |
| General Professional Examination (BCHP) - Part I |
$50 |
| General Professional Examination (BCHP) - Part II |
$125 |
| Employment Profiling Examination (BCEP) |
$100 |
| Grandfather Processing |
$125 |
If you have other questions you would like answered, send an email to: Sheila Lowe
or
call 1-805-658-0109.
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