MCHES

At a glance

Why it matters for an EP

MCHES is a leadership credential for program directors, grant leads, and community health managers. It's also one of CBDCE's named disciplines for CDCES, which gives EPs who come up through health education a second route into diabetes care.

Who this fits

• EPs leading programs, grants, or community health initiatives
• Long-time CHES holders

Eligibility routes

CHES route: At least 5 continuous years as an active CHES, including at least one full recertification cycle, and still active when you apply.

Non-CHES route: A master's degree or higher in health education, or a related master's with 25 credits specific to health education (NCHEC guidance calls for at least 15 at the graduate level), plus 5 years of documented work experience as a health education specialist. Volunteer work doesn't count toward the experience requirement.

Your step-by-step path

1. Choose your route.
2. For the non-CHES route, get your transcript reviewed against the 25-credit rule.
3. Document 5 years of health education work with verifications.
4. Apply and pass the MCHES exam.

Watch-outs

• CHES isn't required first if you meet the non-CHES route, but the coursework bar is high.
• Volunteer roles don't count toward experience.

Pairs well with

• CHES: the foundation
• CDCES: MCHES is a qualifying discipline

Official sources

• NCHEC — MCHES eligibility
• NCHEC — MCHES application
• NCHEC — FAQs