CHES certification

[aries304]

Hi all,

Does anyone here have insight on the CHES (certified health education specialist) certification, specifically, is it really worth it to get this? Most programs I've applied and gotten into are HBHE programs, which already will show my background in health education anyway...

The reason I ask is because I got into GWU (they don't have a 'health education' program) and I don't want to regret it later if it's a smart career choice...

If you have it, or know someone who does, is this a waste of money and are agencies/organizations really looking for something like this? Thanks for any help.

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[aphios5]

I have an MPH and a CHES certification, and for me, the decision to persue the CHES was heavily influenced by the fact that my superiors had the crediential. I won't go so far as to say that potential employers are actively seeking CHES certified individuals out specifically, however, it's one of those things that if you have it, it's a nice complement.

One day, I believe that the CHES certification is slowing but surely going to be noticed as the gold standard for health educators. I'd say it was worth it: my employer actually paid for all of my study materials and the fee for the test, so FREE is always worth it. Ask your supervisor or see if your institution would deem it as pertinant to your current position.

Hope that helps a little. 🙂

 

[swemory2007]

Along these same lines, what does everyone think of the Certified in Public Health Exam? I know last year was the first year and they are just trying to establish it, but do you think it will really be necessary in a few years? It's pretty pricey.
http://www.publichealthexam.org/FAQs.cfm

 

[aphios5]

Along these same lines, what does everyone think of the Certified in Public Health Exam? I know last year was the first year and they are just trying to establish it, but do you think it will really be necessary in a few years? It's pretty pricey.
http://www.publichealthexam.org/FAQs.cfm

Personally, having just been certified with the basic CHES, I don't necessarily see the advantage to the advanced certification. Ask me in 10 years and I may say something different. My jury is still out on this one....😴

 

[PharmDream10]

Hi all,

Does anyone here have insight on the CHES (certified health education specialist) certification, specifically, is it really worth it to get this? Most programs I've applied and gotten into are HBHE programs, which already will show my background in health education anyway...

The reason I ask is because I got into GWU (they don't have a 'health education' program) and I don't want to regret it later if it's a smart career choice...

If you have it, or know someone who does, is this a waste of money and are agencies/organizations really looking for something like this? Thanks for any help.

I have it and I think it is worth it. It really isn't that expensive; especially compared to other certifications. Essentially it will give you an advantage if other applicants don't have it. Good luck!

 

[DrJosephKim]

The public health certification exam is still not widely promoted within many public health schools. It hasn't gained traction and I think it will take several years to do so (if it ever does). However, I would encourage recent grads to go for it since it's always harder to brush up on epi or biostats.