UCLS asked its membership to weigh in on Utah’s current requirements for licensure as a public land surveyor (PLS). The insights gained from the survey results will inform discussions and decisions regarding the future of professional land surveying education and licensing in Utah.

Key Takeaways

1. Current Licensing Requirements Are Generally Accepted:

• Most respondents (49 out of 61) believe that Utah’s current licensing requirements for PLS are “about right.”
• A smaller proportion of respondents found the requirements either “too strict” (5 responses) or “too lenient” (4 responses).

2. Preference for Associate’s Degree and 4 Years of Experience:

• Most respondents (36 out of 61) suggest an “associate’s degree in surveying or related field” as the minimum education level.
• The most recommended duration for supervised experience is “4 years” (42 out of 61 responses).

3. Balanced Approach for the Future of Surveying:

• An overwhelming majority of respondents (43 out of 61) favor a “balanced combination of both” practical field experience and higher education for the future of surveying in Utah.
• “Stronger emphasis on practical field experience” was the second most popular choice, with 15 responses.

Further Insights

• Perception of Current Licensing Requirements: The survey indicates general satisfaction with the existing licensing requirements, suggesting that the current standards are perceived as appropriate by most professionals.
• Required Minimum Education Level for Licensure: While an associate’s degree is the most popular choice, a significant number of respondents also support a bachelor’s degree, indicating a desire for a solid educational foundation.
• Required Years of Supervised Experience: The strong preference for 4 years of supervised experience suggests a belief that practical, hands-on experience is crucial for licensure.
• Importance of Aligning Licensing Standards with Other States: While “somewhat important” was the most common response, a notable portion of respondents also found alignment “very important,” highlighting a moderate to strong interest in consistency across states.
• Best Approach for the Future of Surveying in Utah: The strong preference for a “balanced combination of both” practical field experience and higher education suggests a desire for a holistic approach to professional development that integrates both academic knowledge and real-world skills.