CPSS

At a glance

Detail
Issued by	National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
Starting point	Degree + experience (requirements depend on degree level)
Exam	See the NSCA CPSS exam description
Cost	See NSCA
Renewal	NSCA continuing education cycle

Why it matters for an EP

EPs are trained in testing, data, and physiology, which is the foundation of sport science. CPSS suits EPs heading into collegiate, pro, tactical, or research-performance roles.

Who this fits

EPs with sport science or applied performance experience
Graduate students with assistantships in performance labs

Eligibility routes

Plus current CPR/AED, and NSCA must approve your eligibility before you register:

Degree	Experience needed
Bachelor's in sport science or a closely related field	3 years of documented full-time professional experience (beyond internship level)
Master's in sport science or a closely related field	12 weeks / 480 hours of applied experience (internships, fellowships, GA roles, and jobs can count)
Doctorate in sport science or a closely related field	No additional experience required

Your step-by-step path

Ask NSCA whether your degree is "closely related."
Document your experience on NSCA's forms.
Get eligibility approval.
Register, study, and pass.

Watch-outs

Clinical EP work may not count as sport science experience, so confirm with NSCA.

Pairs well with

CSCS: the performance foundation

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.