Professional association

Professional association is a non-profit organization seeking to further a particular profession, the interests of individuals engaged in that profession, and the public interest.

Overview

In the United States, a professional association is typically a nonprofit organization seeking to further a particular profession, the interests of individuals engaged in that profession, and the public interest. The roles of these professional associations have been variously defined: "A group of people in a learned occupation who are entrusted with maintaining control or oversight of the legitimate practice of the occupation;" also a body acting "to safeguard the public interest;" organizations which "represent the interest of the professional practitioners," and so "enhance their own status and obtain services and benefits for their members."

Roles and responsibilities

Traditionally, professional associations set and enforce standards of ethics and conduct for their members. They may also set and enforce standards for education and training for the profession, and for the licensing of practitioners. They often act as a lobby group on behalf of their members' interests, and they often provide a range of services for their members.

See also

• Trade association
• Guild
• Learned society
• Regulatory college

References

Professional association Resources
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