Elevating Public Health Practice: The Value of the Certified in Public Health (CPH) Credential

In 2016, passing the exam for the Certified in Public Health (CPH) credential was a milestone for me. Truly, it is an achievement for any public health professionals that wants to show their dedication to their craft. Administered by the National Board of Public Health Examiners (NBPHE) , the certification ensures that public health professionals who voluntarily work toward achieving the CPH credential meet national standards of practice and knowledge through a comprehensive exam covering a wide range of topics, including epidemiology, biostatistics, social and behavioral sciences, health policy and management, and environmental health. In short, it shows employers that they are hiring a professional that understands public health and it shows the public that the CPH professional makes decisions based on the science and is has agreed to practice this trade under the NBPHE's Code of Ethics. It says a CPH professional is dedicated, intelligent, educated, and ethical.

The CPH credential is the standardized benchmark for public health knowledge and skills, ensuring that certified professionals possess a core understanding of essential public health principles and practices. This standardization is necessary for those of us working in a diverse and interdisciplinary field like public health, where professionals come from various educational backgrounds and areas of expertise. Holding the CPH credential enhances a public health professional's credibility and recognition. Employers, colleagues, and the community can trust that professionals who have earned the CPH credential have demonstrated a high level of competency and dedication to public health, providing a significant advantage when seeking new job opportunities, promotions, or leadership roles within public health organizations.

The CPH credential is not a one-time achievement. I recently had to undergo many hours of required ongoing professional development and continuing education. Like me, all certified professionals must earn recertification credits through various activities such as attending conferences, participating in training programs, and engaging in public health practice. This commitment to lifelong learning ensures that professionals stay current with the best practices in public health. Preparing for the CPH exam involves a comprehensive review of public health topics, broadening a professional's knowledge and skills beyond their specific area of expertise. (My biostatics and epidemiology professors would be proud.) This broader understanding allows professionals to approach their work more holistically and collaborate more effectively with colleagues from different disciplines.

The CPH credential helps promote public health as a recognized and respected profession. By establishing national standards and encouraging professionals to pursue certification, the NBPHE contributes to the professionalization of public health. This recognition is a great tool for attracting talented individuals to the field and ensuring that public health continues to advance as a critical component of societal well-being. In 2016, I decided to pursue the CPH credential to demonstrate my commitment to my profession. The preparation process was rigorous, involving a thorough review of core public health topics and principles. However, receiving the notice that I had achieved such a feat was incredibly rewarding, both professionally and personally.

The preparation for the CPH exam required me to revisit foundational public health concepts and explore areas outside my primary expertise. This comprehensive review not only solidified my knowledge but also introduced me to new perspectives and approaches in public health practice. The exam itself was challenging, testing my understanding of a wide range of topics and my ability to apply this knowledge to real-world scenarios. Since obtaining the CPH credential, I have experienced several career advancements and new opportunities. The certification has been a valuable addition to my CV. I believe it helps catch the attention of potential employers and collaborators and I look for the CPH credential when hiring. It tells me that people I am interviewing have a significant foundation in our work.

One of the most significant benefits of the CPH credential is the emphasis on continued professional development. The requirement to earn recertification credits has motivated me to stay engaged with the latest developments in public health. I regularly speak at and attend conferences, participate in academic writing, and engage in professional networks, all of which have enriched my knowledge and skills.

As the field of public health continues to evolve, the importance of the CPH credential will only grow. The ongoing challenges posed by global health threats, health disparities, and environmental issues underscore the need for highly skilled and knowledgeable public health professionals. The CPH credential provides a mechanism for ensuring that public health practitioners understand are equipped to address these challenges effectively. Further, as the CPH credential expands, it will further strengthen the public health workforce, which has turned over a great deal after the COVID-19 pandemic. By encouraging more professionals to pursue certification and maintaining rigorous standards, the CPH credential will continue to elevate the practice of public health and enhance our impact on the communities we serve.

The Certified in Public Health (CPH) credential is a valuable asset for public health professionals, offering numerous benefits, including standardized knowledge and skills, enhanced credibility, and a commitment to lifelong learning. My journey since becoming certified in 2016 has been transformative, providing career advancement, professional development, and meaningful connections within the public health community. As we look to the future, the CPH credential will remain a cornerstone of excellence in public health, ensuring that professionals are well-equipped to meet the evolving challenges and opportunities in our field.

Much of the information from this was taken from the NBPHE's website and can be found here: nbphe.org.