Career roadmap
How to Become a Health Educator
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a health educator, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a health educator: (1) study health or public health, (2) get field experience, (3) earn CHES, (4) build programs, (5) advance. Most people need about 4 years. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a health educator
Study health or public health
Earn a bachelor’s.
Get field experience
Internships and volunteering.
Earn CHES
Pass the exam.
Build programs
Lead initiatives.
Advance
Earn an MPH or manage programs.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree in health education, public health or a related field is typical.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 4 years |
Certifications and licenses
- Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES): National certification.
- Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES): Advanced credential.
- Certified Diabetes Prevention Program Lifestyle Coach: CDC program credential.
- Mental Health First Aid Instructor: Training credential.
Skills to build now
Start with needs assessment, program planning, and curriculum design, and practice communication and creativity. Learning the health educator vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Health Educator: Teach and run programs.
- Senior Health Educator: Lead initiatives.
- Program Manager: Manage programs.
- Public Health Director: Lead departments.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Health Educator training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do health educators need a degree?
Usually a bachelor’s degree.
How long does it take to become a health educator?
Most people need about 4 years of training. A bachelor’s degree in health education, public health or a related field is typical.
Do you need a degree to be a health educator?
Usually, yes. BLS lists a bachelor's degree as the typical entry-level education, although skills, certifications and experience can sometimes substitute.
What certifications are available for health educators?
Common credentials include Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES), Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES), Certified Diabetes Prevention Program Lifestyle Coach, and Mental Health First Aid Instructor. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 21-1091 (Health education specialists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Health education specialists (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.