NCAA RAISES CERTIFICATION STANDARDS
NEW REQUIREMENTS AT THE DIVISION I LEVEL
On April 24, 2014, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) passed legislation requiring
Division I colleges and universities to employ strength and conditioning coaches who possess a
nationally accredited strength and conditioning certification. This new requirement is significant in
raising certification standards in college athletics. Additional information on this legislation can be
found on the National Strength and Conditioning Association’s (NSCA) website.
“Having a certification that is accredited guarantees that the strength coach has demonstrated a
certain set of skills and abilities to meet the performance needs of their sports teams and athletes,”
states Boyd Epley, NSCA Founder. As the worldwide leader in strength and conditioning certification
since 1985, the NSCA has taken steps to promote certification requirements at the collegiate level
through an active relationship with NCAA leadership.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR CERTIFIED STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING SPECIALIST® (CSCS®)
CERTIFIED PROFESSIONALS
CSCS® professionals have obtained the most distinctive credential available to safely train athletes
at all levels. As certification becomes required for college strength and conditioning positions, the
CSCS® becomes even more valuable and provides a competitive edge in the job market.
For those who have not yet obtained the CSCS® certification, requirements, study materials, and
exam information can be found here. For those already certified, 2014 is a recertification year where
all continuing education must be completed by December 31. Track your progress and get more
information here.