Design & Management credential
Outside Plant Designer
BICSI Outside Plant Designer™ (OSP)
Every network leaves the building at some point. An OSP designer plans the routes, pathways and structures that carry it across campuses, cities and utility corridors.
About the OSP credential
Who it’s for
Telecom designers, fibre planners, broadband and utility engineers, and senior installers moving into design.
What you’ll be able to do
- Design aerial, underground and direct-buried plant
- Plan pathways, duct banks and structures
- Balance constructability, safety, cost and maintenance
Eligibility
One of two routes: two years of verifiable full-time equivalent field experience in outside plant design or installation plus at least 32 hours of documented continuing education in outside plant design or installation; or two years of that field experience plus a current BICSI Technician, DCDC or RTPM certification.
Recommended training
OSP101, Introduction to Outside Plant Design, and OSP102, Applied Outside Plant Design. Study reference: the Outside Plant Design Reference Manual (OSPDRM).
The exam
100 questions in 2 hours, mixing multiple choice, multiple response and enhanced matching.
Exam application: USD 510 member, USD 725 non-member.
You apply to BICSI first. Once approved, you book your exam at a Pearson VUE test centre. [Pearson VUE centres in the Kingdom]
Keeping it current
Renewed on a recurring cycle with continuing education credits, including a BICSI ethics course each cycle. [CEC count and cycle length]
Your next step
With design experience, OSP opens the RCDD.
FAQ
OSP, answered
Who should take the OSP?
Telecom designers, fibre planners, broadband and utility engineers, and senior installers moving into design.
What are the eligibility requirements for the OSP?
One of two routes: two years of verifiable full-time equivalent field experience in outside plant design or installation plus at least 32 hours of documented continuing education in outside plant design or installation; or two years of that field experience plus a current BICSI Technician, DCDC or RTPM certification.
Which course prepares me for the OSP?
OSP101, Introduction to Outside Plant Design, and OSP102, Applied Outside Plant Design. Study reference: the Outside Plant Design Reference Manual (OSPDRM).
What is the OSP exam like?
100 questions in 2 hours, mixing multiple choice, multiple response and enhanced matching.
Can I train for the OSP in Saudi Arabia?
Yes. BICSI Saudi Arabia is in association with our affiliate Pro Skills Trainings, the BICSI ATF in the EMEA region. Current dates are on Courses & Schedule.
How do I keep my OSP current?
Renewed on a recurring cycle with continuing education credits, including a BICSI ethics course each cycle. [CEC count and cycle length]
What comes after the OSP?
With design experience, OSP opens the RCDD.
Ready to build what's next?
Join the community setting the standard for ICT infrastructure in the Kingdom.