Why is certification essential in Loss Prevention today?

In today's society, brand and reputation are the keys to being profitable. In order to maintain this reputation, especially in light of ever increasing litigation, proper education and skill development of loss prevention personnel is critical. One poorly handled situation may result in litigation or media coverage that can forever damage a company's image or even put them out of business. Retailers worldwide recognize the importance and the need for a standardized education process for loss prevention associates, agents and managers. In response to this need the Loss Prevention Foundation is driving this very important initiative to revolutionize standards of quality, consistency and integrity in Loss Prevention.

The effort will be driven by the Loss Prevention Foundation's Board of Directors who, with the help of the Foundation's numerous committees will drive the development and accreditation process for the certification courses and exams.

Initial development of this program is geared towards two specific audiences within loss prevention, the associate level and the manager level. The Foundation will also provide continuing education that will serve these individuals as they reach the director level and beyond. At present, the primary focus is on the larger segment of the LP population, which offers the greatest opportunity to develop the loss prevention leaders of tomorrow. The Loss Prevention Certification curriculum is designed to facilitate industry standard education, while reducing liability and driving employment, and retention practices to qualify the criteria for career advancement.

Loss Prevention Qualified (LPQ)

The LPQualified is a certification that was designed to be a benchmark education for entry level loss prevention professionals, or for those who are interested in entering the loss prevention profession. The LPQualified was designed with input from loss prevention professionals from over thirty of today's leading retail companies. In order to earn your certification you must not only complete LPQualified coursework, but you must also take the LPQualified exam.

The LPQualified coursework is composed of three modules with curriculum focused on the Retail Environment, Becoming a Successful Business Person, and Loss Prevention Basics and Tools. Each module includes review exercises and practical applications. The coursework will be delivered online and will include detailed reading as well as video demonstrations of concepts covered in the reading. Please click here for a demonstration of the LPQualified coursework.

The LPQualified exam will be available in Fall 2007. The exam will be composed of multiple choice questions and will be offered on a regular basis and select locations throughout the country. All exams will be offered in a computer based format and will be proctored. You must complete the LPQualified coursework before you can take the exam.

Loss Prevention Certified (LPC)

The LPCertified is a certification that was designed as advanced education for loss prevention management and executives who hope to further their career in the loss prevention field. The LPCertified was designed with input from loss prevention professionals from over fifty of today's leading retail companies. In order to earn your certification you must not only complete LPCertified coursework, but you must also take the LPCertified exam.

The LPCertified coursework is composed of five modules with curriculum focused on the Leadership Principles, Business Principles, LP Operations, Crisis Management and Supply Chain. The coursework will be delivered online and will include detailed reading as well as video demonstrations of concepts covered in the reading.

The LPCertified exam will be available in Winter 2007/2008. The exam will be composed of multiple choice questions and will be offered on a regular basis and select locations throughout the country. All exams will be offered in a computer based format and will be proctored. You must complete the LPCcertified coursework before you can take the exam.