We do actually have such a thing in the UK. It's called the Institution of Analysts & Programmers and has been around for about 45 years or so. You can visit them here IAP About Page There are membership level minimum requirements and a code of conduct for members. There is also a guaranteed indemnity for employers/clients if they use the services of such a member up to £2M. Membership is not limited to UK resident's either it's an internationally recognised body and anyone, anywhere in the world can apply to become a member. Just thought I would bring this to everyone's attention, as I agree we need standards, responsibilities and accountability for bad programmers and software engineers who can cause mayhem in the world by not being 'professional' ones.