CSCS

At a glance

Why it matters for an EP

Strength training is medicine for older adults, cancer survivors, and people with metabolic disease. CSCS gives EPs deep programming credibility and opens doors in athletics, tactical, and performance settings.

Who this fits

• EPs who program resistance training or work with athletes
• Students in their final year

Eligibility routes

• Bachelor's degree or higher, or currently enrolled as a college senior at an accredited school (the degree must be finished before certification)
• Current CPR/AED. You can test without it, but you must submit proof within a year.
• All documentation is due within one year of your exam date, or your results are invalidated.

Coming Jan. 1, 2030: U.S. candidates will need a bachelor's from a CASCE-accredited program. Current rules apply through Dec. 31, 2029.

Your step-by-step path

1. Register for the exam and plan for both sections.
2. Send your official transcript and CPR/AED to NSCA after registering.
3. Study the NSCA content outline.
4. Pass both sections within a year.

Watch-outs

• The one-year documentation deadline is strict.
• Students graduating in 2029 or later should check their program's CASCE status.

Pairs well with

• CSPS: special populations
• CPSS: sport science

Official sources

• NSCA — CSCS prerequisites
• NSCA — CSCS
• NSCA — CASCE resources