ACSM-CEP

At a glance

Why it matters for an EP

ACSM-CEP is the clinical EP's core credential. It's recognized in cardiac and pulmonary rehab, and it's the named EP discipline for CDCES. If you work in clinical settings, it unlocks more pathways in this guide than anything else.

Who this fits

• EPs in cardiac rehab, pulmonary rehab, oncology, or chronic disease programs
• Master's students in clinical exercise physiology

Eligibility routes

• Master's in Clinical Exercise Physiology or equivalent + 600 hours of hands-on clinical experience, or
• Bachelor's in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, or equivalent + 1,200 hours of hands-on clinical experience
• BLS Provider or CPR for the Professional Rescuer
• Submit your application and documentation before you can register

Starting Aug. 15, 2027, CAAHEP accreditation rules apply here too.

Your step-by-step path

1. Confirm your degree path and its hour requirement.
2. Log clinical hours in qualifying clinical exercise settings, with supervisor verification.
3. Keep BLS current.
4. Apply with documentation, then register once approved.
5. Pass the exam, then start your CDCES clock if diabetes care interests you.

Watch-outs

• Fitness floor hours don't count as clinical hours.
• Applications are reviewed before you can register, so build in lead time.

Pairs well with

• CDCES: ACSM-CEP is the required EP discipline
• CCRP: cardiac rehab
• RPFT/CCT: diagnostics

Official sources

• ACSM — ACSM-CEP
• ACSM — Updated EP/CEP requirements and accreditation
• ACSM — Programmatic accreditation