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CHS students pass the CHES exam
June 2, 2025
Eight College of Health Science students recently passed their national-level competency exam, earning the highest level of certification within health education. These students also completed a preparatory course through the College of Health Sciences.
To become a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES), one must pass the CHES exam and complete 25 relevant credit hours in health education, health promotion and/or wellness. Nationally, only about 62% of participants pass the CHES exam.
Jenna Wintemberg, an associate teaching professor in Health Sciences and Public Health, said about 80% of Mizzou students who take the CHES exam pass it — because of the eight-week preparatory course offered to Mizzou students. Wintemberg teaches the class in a fully online format leading up to the exam period each October and April.
The certification signifies someone is skilled in data collection, evaluation and interpretation, which provides support for their planning, advocacy and communication capabilities.
Certification through the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing helps graduates show employers that they know how to improve health and provide health promotion programs. These specialists are dedicated to increasing the quality of life for individuals in their communities while saving both the community and individuals money.
The following individuals passed the CHES exam this spring:

Angel Benjamin
Preparing for the exam was not easy, but I was fortunate to have the support of Dr. Jenna Wintemberg, who provided me with valuable study materials. I am truly grateful for her assistance, as the resources she shared greatly enhanced my understanding and preparation.
My ultimate goal is to empower individuals through education to make informed decisions about their health and to live healthier lives. This certification has not only validated my commitment but has also equipped me with the tools I need to succeed.

Nina Guarisco

Claire McMahon
Passing this exam is a big deal because it is a culmination of my public health courses and projects. Earning the CHES certification will help me in the future because it connects me with others in the public health field and opens so many more doors. It shows future employers and colleagues that I am skilled in this field and have the qualifications to take on various health education roles.

Lauren McQuade
As I continue my education by pursuing my Master of Social Policy degree, my CHES credential will help me better connect with the populations I am working with and will assist me in advocacy and policy change efforts. Having this credential signifies to potential employers and partners that I am competent in areas that are crucial for the work that I am pursuing and that I am able to make informed decisions on best courses of action when considering health education.

Audrey Proctor
Obtaining CHES credentials showcases that I have put forth substantial effort to learn and be an advocate for health education and health programs. It opens up opportunities for career advancement, establishes credibility in the public health field, allows for networking with other health education professionals, and provides a path for career development.
Dr. Wintemberg’s course kept me accountable to learn the information in a way that was easy to digest and study. Most of all, Dr. Wintemberg’s support and encouragement throughout the process was extremely reassuring that I had the capabilities to do well.

Elise Tisler

Kaye Vandendaele
For me, the biggest benefit of Dr. Wintemberg’s CHES prep course was expanding my understanding of what a Certified Health Education Specialist’s role can entail — the role is so much more than just education, as the name might imply.
I work in Health Education and Promotion and have already referred back to my CHES Companion Guide for guidance when preparing an Education Outreach Plan. My CHES certification allows me to demonstrate to my employer my knowledge, skills, and accomplishment.

Emma Wilson
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