Graduates of Health Education programs may sit for the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) Exam, which grants licensure to qualified practitioners and assures employers that services are provided by professionals who have met national standards. Over the last several years, more employers indicate “CHES preferred” on health educator/health promotion positions. Hofstra University boasts a 100 percent passing rate for this exam.
From the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc. (NCHEC):
The CHES examination is a competency-based tool used to measure possession, application and interpretation of knowledge in the Seven Areas of Responsibility for Health Education Specialists. The exam reflects the entry-level Sub-competencies of these Areas of Responsibility. Consisting of 165 multiple-choice questions (150 scored and 15 pilot tested), the CHES examination is offered in paper-and-pencil format at college campuses throughout the United States. While there are approximately 120 testing sites currently registered, any campus with a testing service is eligible to become a testing site.
A CHES is an individual that has:
- Met academic eligibility
- Passed a written examination
- Has an ongoing commitment to continuing education
- For more information on the CHES Exam, please visit the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc. (NCHEC).