The CHES Collective

by I Am Health Education®

Flowchart outlining the CHES Collective Ecosystem, starting with connecting in the Workforce Lab through coffee chats and networking, then preparing in the CHES Collective with exam prep and study sessions, followed by thriving with certification, and advancing careers.

Prepare for the CHES Exam with Structure, Accountability, and Community

The CHES Collective by I Am Health Education® is a peer-supported study and accountability community designed for individuals preparing for the CHES® or MCHES® certification.

This program provides a structured study environment, mentor guidance, and peer support to help candidates stay consistent and confident as they prepare for the exam.

The next cohort will launch ahead of the October 2026 CHES exam window

Why the CHES Collective Exists

Preparing for the CHES exam can be challenging when studying alone.

Many candidates struggle with:

• staying consistent with study schedules
• understanding how the exam domains connect
• maintaining motivation over several weeks

The CHES Collective addresses these challenges through community accountability and peer collaboration.

How the CHES Collective Works

The CHES Collective runs as an 8–10 week cohort leading up to the exam window.

Participants engage in structured study activities and peer discussions designed to support consistent preparation.

Weekly Programming

  • Study Hall Sessions

1-hour peer-led study sessions.

Structure:

check-in and study goals

silent study time

breakout discussion

weekly goal setting

  • Practice Question Discussions

Collaborative review of practice questions and exam concepts.

Participants work together to understand reasoning and domain connections.

  • Accountability Pods

Small study groups that meet independently throughout the program.

These pods help participants stay accountable and maintain consistent study progress.

  • CHES Peer Mentors

The CHES Collective is supported by a group of CHES-certified peer mentors who share their experience preparing for the exam.

Mentors may:

• Host occasional study sessions
• Answer questions in the community space
• Share strategies that helped them pass the exam

Apply to be a CHES Peer Mentor

  • Who the CHES Collective Is For

This program is designed for:

• individuals preparing for the CHES exam
• individuals preparing for the MCHES exam
• health educators seeking structured study support
• public health professionals pursuing certification

  • Cohort Timeline

The Fall 2026 cohort will run 8–10 weeks, leading into the October CHES exam window.

Participants will receive:

• A study roadmap
• Weekly study sessions
• Practice question discussions
• Accountability pods
• Mentor support

Join the Interest List

If you are preparing for the CHES exam and would like to receive updates about the upcoming cohort, join the interest list.

Also Part of the Community

The CHES Collective is part of the broader Public Health Workforce Lab by I Am Health Education®, where professionals connect through networking and workforce conversations throughout the year.

Explore the Workforce Lab