A CHES certification is a credential that shows proof of a health educator’s ability to help others achieve health and wellness through educational programs. A CHES-certified health educator works with communities and individuals to encourage behaviors that promote positive health.
How to Obtain a CHES Certification
To obtain a certified health education specialist (CHES) credential, one must have at least a bachelor’s degree in health education. The degree can also be in a field that comprehensively covers the seven major areas of specialization for health educators. While a bachelor’s degree is enough for certification, most employers prefer certified health education specialists who have master’s degrees.
Once a person shows proof of a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited institution, he is considered eligible for certified health education specialist certification. Receiving the CHEC certification involves sitting for and passing an exam administered by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC).
The CHES Examination
The certified health education specialist (CHES) exam measures a person’s possession, interpretation and application of knowledge of areas of competencies, sub-competencies and responsibilities for health education specialists. These include health education assessment, planning, implementation, evaluation, research, administration and advocacy. The exam meets the minimum requirements set by the National Commission of Certified Agencies, meaning the certification is regarded as a valid and highly valuable credential.
There are 165 multiple-choice questions candidates are expected to answer. 150 of these questions are scored while 15 are piloted. Candidates are not told which questions will be piloted or scored. The exam takes place at 130 testing centers spread across the country. Candidates are required to bring their original admission ticket, photo identification and several sharpened pencils on the examination date.
CHES Exam Eligibility
Anyone who has a bachelor’s or master’s degree in health education or any other related discipline is eligible to sit for the CHES examination. Applicants must produce an official transcript that shows a major in health education, such as school health education, public health education and health education. The transcript should also show at least 25 semester hours or 37 quarter hours of coursework with a score of grade C and above.
If you don’t meet the requirements above, your application may be rejected. However, you can file an appeal if you feel the application was rejected without merit. An appeal can only be considered if it is filed within 30 days from the date you received the rejection letter. The appeal request must be sent via email or a certified courier service and be accompanied by a nonrefundable fee of $25.
Benefits of CHES Credential
The certified health education specialist credential establishes a national standard for health educators. It reaffirms the educators’ knowledge and skills in the seven areas of responsibility for health education and assists employers in identifying qualified specialists. The certification also creates a perfect platform for continuous professional development and establishes a national standard of practice for health educators. The certification also increases earning potential.
Health education is a lucrative field that can even become much better if you are certified. A CHES certification will not only improve your job prospects, but it will also make you stand out from your peers.
