The Role of Accreditation and Credentialing in Industry Professionalization w/Dr. Ben Thompson

This is the  fifth episode of our special podcast series exploring the Sept/Oct themed issue of the American College of Sports Medicine’s Health & Fitness Journal on professionalization and advocacy. In this episode, we’ll explore the important topic of education and credentialing, with Dr. Ben Thompson, the lead author for the article in the themed issue entitled "The Role of Programmatic Accreditation, Certification, and Career Advancement." 

Ben has extensive experience in academic accreditation and credentialing in the exercise profession.  His journey through academia and his impactful work with the ACSM and CREP provide a rich backdrop to our discussion on how accreditation and certification can bolster the credibility of exercise professionals with healthcare providers and the public.

We delve into programmatic accreditation within academic institutions, focusing specifically on kinesiology and exercise science programs. Ben demystifies the process universities must undergo to achieve programmatic accreditation and highlights the differences between accredited certifications versus less rigorous alternatives. We also tackle the ongoing debate between certification and licensure, considering their respective roles in fostering trust within the healthcare industry.  Tune in for invaluable insights and resources that will guide you through the professional standards and career advancement opportunities in the exercise profession.

Show Notes Page: https://wellnessparadoxpod.com/episodeacsm5

Our Guest: Dr. Ben Thompson, Ph.D., FACSM, ACSM-EP 
Ben is a professor and program director of a CAAHEP accredited Exercise Science program at Metropolitan State University of Denver.  He currently serves as the chair of the Committee on Accreditation for the Exercise Sciences (CoAES) and is an advisory board member to the Coalition for the Registration of Exercise Professionals (CREP). He has served as the Chair for the ACSM Committee on Certification and Registry Boards for the Exercise Physiologist and President of the Rocky Mountain Chapter of ACSM.  He is dedicated to preparing his students to be future exercise professionals and continues to advocate for the profession. 

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