HFI Course Category / Level

Degree level – post ACSM

Qualification Introductory Information

A PAPHS is a professional who promotes physical activity in public health at the national, state and/or local level.  The PAPHS engages and educates key decision makers about the impact of and need for legislation, policies and programmes that promote physical activity.  Additionally, the PAPHS provides leadership and develops partnerships with private and public associations to catalyse the promotion of population-based physical activity.

Who is this qualification/course suitable for?

Minimum Requirements for the ACSM/NSPAPPH Physical Activity in Public Health Specialist (PAPHS):

A Bachelor’s Degree in a health related field* from a regionally accredited college or university or:

A Bachelor’s degree in any subject and 1,200 hours of experience in settings promoting physical activity, healthy lifestyle management or other health promotion**.

*Examples: Exercise science; Exercise Physiology; Kinesiology; Physical Education; Sports Management; Athletic Training; Recreation; Nutrition; Health Education; Health Promotion; Public Health; Community Health; and Health Care Administration.

**  Examples: Education; Community/Public Health Setting; YMCA, Parks & Recreation, After School Programs; Worksite Health Promotion; Community Health; Health Education or Health Promotion; Federal, State, or Local Government; Health Care or Health Plan; Academia or University; Non-profit Organisation; Commercial Health Clubs; Corporate Fitness Centres.

For information about content look at the ACSM/NSPAPPH syllabus and the recommended reading.