The CSDP examination tested candidates' proficiency in internationally accepted, industry-standard[7] software engineering principles and practices.
[8] CSDP credential holders are also obligated to adhere to the IEEE/ACM's Software Engineering Code of Ethics and Professional Practice.
[9] [10] As of 2021, the IEEE-CS offer which is a successor to CSDP is the Professional Software Engineering Master (PSEM) certification.
[13]) Candidates had to undergo a peer review of their education and professional qualifications in order to receive authorization to take the CSDP examination.
Candidates therefore had to submit an application to the IEEE Computer Society that provided verifiable information regarding their educational background and professional experience.