CHES

At a glance

Detail
Issued by	National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC)
Starting point	Degree + specific coursework
Exam	CHES exam; see NCHEC
Cost	See NCHEC
Renewal	NCHEC continuing education cycle

Why it matters for an EP

Group classes, community programs, workplace wellness, and grant-funded health programs all count as health education. CHES gives EPs credibility with public health departments and nonprofits, and it qualifies you for AE-C.

Who this fits

EPs who run classes, community programs, or grant-funded wellness work
EPs who took public health or health promotion courses

Eligibility routes

A bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited school, plus one of these:

A major explicitly in Health Education (or Community, Public, or School Health Education), or
25 semester credits / 37 quarter hours, with grades of C or better, preparing you in the Nine Areas of Responsibility:

Course type	Rule
Process courses (planning, implementation, evaluation, and so on)	At least 12 semester credits
Topic courses with health education elements	Up to 9 semester credits
Other related courses	Up to 6 semester credits

Students within 90 days of graduation may qualify with 25 credits and an advisor's letter.

Your step-by-step path

Map your transcript against the coursework table.
If you're unsure, use NCHEC's prescreen and have course descriptions or syllabi ready.
If you're short on process credits, take the missing courses.
Apply and pass the CHES exam.

Watch-outs

Exercise science credits like anatomy and exercise physiology usually aren't process courses.
Grades below C don't count.

Pairs well with

AE-C: CHES is a qualifying credential
MCHES: the advanced level
NBC-HWC: coaching

Official sources

Requirements change. This page summarizes what the issuing organization published as of November 1, 2026. It does not decide your eligibility; only the issuer can. Always check the official sources above before you pay for anything.