Learn about sport science careers and the CPSS certification program​.

Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists® (CSCS®) are professionals who apply scientific knowledge to train athletes for the primary goal of improving athletic performance. Learn more about becoming a strength and conditioning coach with the NSCA certification! Visit NSCA.com for more information on strength and conditioning jobs, strength and conditioning internships, continuing education and CEUs.

Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitators® are professionals in tactical fields (e.g., military, fire and rescue, law enforcement and other professions) who apply scientific knowledge to improve performance, promote wellness and decrease injury risk. These Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitators help their peers improve on-the-job physical performance and reduce time off due to injury. Learn more about expanding your professional expertise with NSCA’s TSAC-F® certification!

Joint Statement from NSCA and CSCCa to NCAA on Behalf of Division 1 Strength and Conditioning Coaches

Before registering for the CPSS™ exam, you must first complete an application, submit your eligibility documents, and receive permission to test. Begin this process in advance of your desired testing date, as applications may take up to 30-days to process.

The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Advocates to Raise the Certification Standards with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

To be eligible to take the CSCS® examination, candidates must fulfill certain criteria. Candidates must hold at least a bachelor's degree or currently be enrolled as a college senior at an accredited institution. Learn more about the prerequisites to sit for the CSCS® exam.

The Certified Performance and Sport Scientist (CPSS) specializes in the application of scientific processes to improve individual and team athletic performance and decrease injury risk. The CPSS may be either a generalist, working across the breadth of scientific disciplines, or a specialist practitioner, who has training and/or applied experiences predominantly within one or more specific scientific discipline area(s) relevant to sport science and sports performance.

The Certified Performance and Sport Scientist (CPSS)™ is an advanced level certification. There are three routes listed to establish eligibility based upon the highest level of formal education obtained (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees) and eligible professional experience.