ACSM/NPAS Physical Activity in Public Health Specialist

UPDATE: On October 12, 2012, the National Society of Physical Activity Practitioners in Public Health (NSPAPPH) announced the organization's new official name, the National Physical Activity Society (NPAS), after completing an organizational transition.

Be a powerful leader and promote physical activity in public health. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) in collaboration with the National Physical Activity Society (NPAS) has developed a specialty certification for professionals working in promoting physical activity specifically focused on the public health setting. Become an ACSM/NPAS Physical Activity in Public Health Specialist, and engage key decision makers at the national, state or local level. Develop key partnerships to establish legislation, policies and programs that promote physical activity for people all over the country.

What will I be able to do as an ACSM/NPAS Physical Activity in Public Health Specialist?

A certified ACSM/NPAS Physical Activity in Public Health Specialist (PAPHS) conducts needs assessments, plans, develops and coordinates physical activity interventions provided at local, state and federal levels. A PAPHS is also called upon to provide leadership, develop partnerships and advise local, state and federal health departments on all physical activity-related initiatives. They ensure they are consistent, based on best available evidence and coordinated with other physical activity programs, in order to optimize effectiveness and public health benefit.

What qualifications are necessary?

The following requirements must be met:

A Bachelor's degree in a health-related field from a regionally accredited college or university
OR
A Bachelor's degree in any subject with 1,200 hours of experience in settings promoting physical activity, healthy lifestyle management or other health promotion

What study materials are available to help me prepare?

New Resource

Foundations of Physical Activity and Public Health, 1st edition

This new resource is available through Human Kinetics and can be purchased by itself or in a package with the new online course at www.humankinetics.com or by calling 800-747-4457.

ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, 9th edition ACSM's Resource Manual for Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, 7th edition ACSM's Resources for Clinical Exercise Physiology, 2nd edition

The study materials above will help you successfully prepare for the ACSM/NPAS PAPHS and are available through our publisher, LWW, by calling 800-486-5643 or by visiting the LWW e-Store.

Preparing for the PAPHS Examination - updated information

PAPHS Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

PAPHS FAQs

PAPHS Competency Areas/Exam Blueprint

PAPHS Optional Resources

Are workshops and webinars available?

**New online course available through Human Kinetics. Click here for more information.

How much does the exam cost?

Non-ACSM Certified Candidates .................	$195
NPAS Members (FREE NPAS Membership)..	$150
ACSM Certified Candidates ........................	$150
Re-test .....................................................	$125

How do I register to take the exam?

All ACSM certification examinations are administered by our testing partner, Pearson VUE. Pearson VUE provides over 5,000 computer-based testing centers throughout the world.

Click here to register for any ACSM exam with Pearson VUE

ACSM Certified Professionals - be sure to get your certified pro discount voucher before registering for the exam by emailing the ACSM Certification Department at certification@acsm.org.

What other information do I need to be aware of?

The ACSM Candidate Handbook has information about, but not limited to, the following:

Exam administration
Code of Ethics
Non-discrimination policy
Disability policy
Complaint policy
Appeals policy

Click here for Frequently Asked Questions

What is required to maintain my certification?

To maintain your PAPHS certification, you will need to accumulate at least 45 CECs/CEUs within a 3-year cycle, maintain CPR certification, and pay the $30 recertification fee.

Click here for more information about recertification