community health workers education requirements

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Community Health Workers

What They Do

Work environment, how to become one, job outlook, state & area data, similar occupations.

What Community Health Workers Do

Community health workers promote wellness by helping people adopt healthy behaviors. They implement programs and advocate for people who may have limited access to health resources and social services.

Community health workers are employed in a variety of settings, including hospitals, public health departments, and community-based organizations. Most work full time.

How to Become a Community Health Worker

To enter the occupation, community health workers typically need at least a high school diploma; some employers prefer to hire candidates who have postsecondary education. To attain competency, they typically complete a brief period of on-the-job training, and some states require certification.

The median annual wage for community health workers was $48,200 in May 2023.

Employment of community health workers is projected to grow 13 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 7,500 openings for community health workers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for community health workers.

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of community health workers with similar occupations.

More Information, Including Links to O*NET

Learn more about community health workers by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.

What Community Health Workers Do About this section

Community health workers promote wellness by helping people adopt healthy behaviors. They implement programs and advocate for people who may have limited access to health resources and social services.

Community health workers typically do the following:

• Coordinate care among individuals, communities, and health and social service systems
• Conduct outreach, such as through home visits
• Provide culturally appropriate health and informational resources
• Oversee case management and resource access
• Advocate for individuals and communities regarding housing, food security, and other needs
• Provide coaching and social support, such as nutrition training, recovery services for mental health and substance use disorders, and chronic disease management and prevention
• Provide services, such as basic health screenings and first aid
• Increase individual and community participation in assessments and education to improve health and well-being

Community health workers act as intermediaries between their clients and providers of healthcare and social services. They identify health-related issues, collect data, and discuss clients’ health concerns within the community. For example, community health workers might identify barriers preventing clients from access to transportation and provide referrals to resources that provide it.

Ideally, these workers have close ties to the communities they serve so that they understand their clients’ unique needs. They share that information with providers of healthcare and social services for determining appropriate programs and care. They also advocate for community wellness needs and conduct outreach to engage clients, assist with navigating healthcare, and improve coordination of care.

Community health workers may have different titles, depending on the population they serve. For example, community health representatives increase health knowledge and access to care for Tribal communities. Promotores de la salud reduce barriers to healthcare and social services in Spanish-speaking communities. Peer support specialists have experienced a mental health or substance use disorder and are in recovery while providing support to others experiencing similar challenges.

Community health workers work closely with other healthcare and social service providers, including registered nurses , social workers , and substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors .

Work Environment About this section

Community health workers held about 63,400 jobs in 2023. The largest employers of community health workers were as follows:

Community health workers may spend part of their day in an office for activities such as recordkeeping and writing reports. However, they spend much of their time in the field to interact with community members, hold events, and collect data. They may travel to a variety of settings, including homes or medical facilities, to meet with clients.

Community health workers often collaborate with healthcare and social service providers as part of an interdisciplinary team.

Work Schedules

Most community health workers are employed full time. They may need to work evenings and weekends to attend community events, programs, or meetings.

How to Become a Community Health Worker About this section

Community health workers typically need at least a high school diploma, although some jobs require postsecondary education. Postsecondary community health worker programs may lead to a 1-year certificate or a 2-year associate’s degree. These programs cover topics such as wellness, ethics, and cultural awareness.

Community health workers typically complete on-the-job training. They learn about topics useful in their work, including communication styles, outreach and advocacy methods, and legal and ethical issues.

Some workers participate in apprenticeships or other programs that provide opportunities for hands-on experience.

Other Experience

Community health workers usually benefit from understanding the specific community, culture, medical condition, or disability with which they work. They may have personal experience in these areas, or they may gain experience by working in activities such as community development, public health, or social outreach.

The ability to speak another language is helpful for working in some communities.

Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations

Some states require certification for community health workers, which may include completing an approved training program. For more information, contact your state’s board of health, nursing, or human services.

Advancement

Experienced community health workers may move into supervisory positions.

With additional education, community health workers may be able to transition to occupations such as health education specialists ; registered nurses ; social workers ; or substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors .

Important Qualities

Communication skills. Community health workers must be able to clearly convey information in health-related materials to those they serve and in written proposals for programs and funding.

Cultural sensitivity . Community health workers must be respectful of the communities they serve and be understanding of their concerns.

Instructional skills. Community health workers lead programs and facilitate discussions with clients.

Interpersonal skills. Community health workers interact with people from a variety of backgrounds. They must be good listeners and be empathetic in responding to the needs of the communities they serve.

Problem-solving skills. Community health workers must think creatively about the best ways to serve their clients. For example, they may need to adapt program planning because of budget constraints or when encountering resistance from community members.

Pay About this section

Median annual wages, May 2023

Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics

The median annual wage for community health workers was $48,200 in May 2023. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $35,560, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $75,980.

In May 2023, the median annual wages for community health workers in the top industries in which they worked were as follows:

Most community health workers are employed full time. They may need to work evenings and weekends to attend community events, programs or meetings.

Job Outlook About this section

Percent change in employment, projected 2023-33

Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program

Community health workers will continue to be needed to help organizations and government agencies provide people with health-related information, such as how to access medical services.

Individuals diagnosed with chronic diseases, mental health issues, and substance abuse disorders will require community health workers to assist them in finding healthcare professionals and other social assistance providers. Demand for these workers also will stem from their role in implementing public health initiatives, including preventive measures to reduce the spread of disease.  

State & Area Data About this section

Occupational employment and wage statistics (oews).

The Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations. These estimates are available for the nation as a whole, for individual states, and for metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. The link(s) below go to OEWS data maps for employment and wages by state and area.

• Community health workers

Projections Central

Occupational employment projections are developed for all states by Labor Market Information (LMI) or individual state Employment Projections offices. All state projections data are available at www.projectionscentral.org . Information on this site allows projected employment growth for an occupation to be compared among states or to be compared within one state. In addition, states may produce projections for areas; there are links to each state’s websites where these data may be retrieved.

CareerOneStop

CareerOneStop includes hundreds of occupational profiles with data available by state and metro area. There are links in the left-hand side menu to compare occupational employment by state and occupational wages by local area or metro area. There is also a salary info tool to search for wages by zip code.

Similar Occupations About this section

This table shows a list of occupations with job duties that are similar to those of community health workers.

Contacts for More Information About this section

For more information about community health workers, visit

American Public Health Association

Association of State and Territorial Health Officials

National Association of Community Health Representatives

National Association of Community Health Workers

National Association of Peer Supporters

Visión y Compromiso

Occupational Requirements Survey

For a profile highlighting selected BLS data on occupational requirements, see

Community health workers  (PDF)

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook , Community Health Workers, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/community-health-workers.htm (visited December 15, 2024 ).

Last Modified Date: Thursday, August 29, 2024

The What They Do tab describes the typical duties and responsibilities of workers in the occupation, including what tools and equipment they use and how closely they are supervised. This tab also covers different types of occupational specialties.

The Work Environment tab includes the number of jobs held in the occupation and describes the workplace, the level of physical activity expected, and typical hours worked. It may also discuss the major industries that employed the occupation. This tab may also describe opportunities for part-time work, the amount and type of travel required, any safety equipment that is used, and the risk of injury that workers may face.

The How to Become One tab describes how to prepare for a job in the occupation. This tab can include information on education, training, work experience, licensing and certification, and important qualities that are required or helpful for entering or working in the occupation.

The Pay tab describes typical earnings and how workers in the occupation are compensated—annual salaries, hourly wages, commissions, tips, or bonuses. Within every occupation, earnings vary by experience, responsibility, performance, tenure, and geographic area. For most profiles, this tab has a table with wages in the major industries employing the occupation. It does not include pay for self-employed workers, agriculture workers, or workers in private households because these data are not collected by the Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, the source of BLS wage data in the OOH.

State & Area Data

The State and Area Data tab provides links to state and area occupational data from the Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program, state projections data from Projections Central, and occupational information from the Department of Labor's CareerOneStop.

The Job Outlook tab describes the factors that affect employment growth or decline in the occupation, and in some instances, describes the relationship between the number of job seekers and the number of job openings.

The Similar Occupations tab describes occupations that share similar duties, skills, interests, education, or training with the occupation covered in the profile.

Contacts for More Information

The More Information tab provides the Internet addresses of associations, government agencies, unions, and other organizations that can provide additional information on the occupation. This tab also includes links to relevant occupational information from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET).

2023 Median Pay

The wage at which half of the workers in the occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. Median wage data are from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics survey. In May 2023, the median annual wage for all workers was $48,060.

On-the-job Training

Additional training needed (postemployment) to attain competency in the skills needed in this occupation.

Entry-level Education

Typical level of education that most workers need to enter this occupation.

Work experience in a related occupation

Work experience that is commonly considered necessary by employers, or is a commonly accepted substitute for more formal types of training or education.

Number of Jobs, 2023

The employment, or size, of this occupation in 2023, which is the base year of the 2023-33 employment projections.

Job Outlook, 2023-33

The projected percent change in employment from 2023 to 2033. The average growth rate for all occupations is 4 percent.

Employment Change, 2023-33

The projected numeric change in employment from 2023 to 2033.

Employment Change, projected 2023-33

Growth rate (projected).

The percent change of employment for each occupation from 2023 to 2033.

Projected Number of New Jobs

Projected growth rate.

The projected percent change in employment from 2023 to 2033.

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Your career begins here!

Ccapp invites you to become a certified community health worker (cchw), — let’s succeed together.

With CCAPP, Career is Your Journey!

Why Register as an CCHW With CCAPP?

A Certified Community Health Worker (CCHW) is a trusted individual who contributes to improved health outcomes in the community. CCHWs serve the communities in which they reside or communities with which they may share ethnicity, language, socioeconomic status, or life experiences. The term “community health worker,” includes but is not limited to other titles such as outreach worker, patient navigator, and promotores de salud. 

Community Health Worker (CHW) services are preventive health services, as defined in 42 CFR 440.130(c), to prevent disease, disability, and other health conditions or their progression; prolong life, and promote physical and mental health and efficiency. CHWs are trusted members of their community who help address chronic conditions, preventive health care needs, and health-related social needs. Community Health Workers may include Promotores, Community Health Representatives, Navigators, and other non-licensed public health workers, including Violence Prevention Professionals, with the qualifications specified in the Content outline & Standards manual.

The career ladder is designed to advance upward. It is not permissible to step down the ladder from any level.

Application requirements, experience:.

Letter from DHCS, County Authority, current CHW supervisor, or designee agency verifying prior CCHW Qualification. Please include any directives regarding limitations on the scope of practice. The letter must be on the official letterhead and include work experience as follows: One (1) year full-time or 2000 hours part-time volunteer or paid work/volunteer experience as a community health worker specific to the domains within the last three (3) years and has demonstrated skills and practical training in the areas described above, as determined by the supervisor. CCHWs must have lived experience that aligns with and provides a connection between the CHW and the community being served.

$150 for non-BHAP members and $50 for members. Renewal is $100 and $50 for BHAP members. This fee is non-refundable. 

Education/Training*:

75 hours relevant to the domains within the last five years with a certificate of completion, including but not limited to any certificate issued by the State of California or a State designee, of a curricula that attests to demonstrated skills and/or practical training in the following areas: communication, interpersonal and relationship building, service coordination and navigation, capacity building, advocacy, education and facilitation, individual and community assessment, professional skills and conduct, outreach, evaluation and research, and basic knowledge in public health principles and social determinants of health, as determined by the supervising provider. Certificate programs shall also include field experience as a requirement.

Supervision:

60 hours of supervision obtained during the work/volunteer experience. The supervision must be specific to all the domains.  CCHWs must be supervised by a community-based organization, local health jurisdiction, licensed provider, clinic, or hospital.

Official ID

Upload a copy of your official government ID, such as a driver’s license, passport ID, or State ID. This is a step in the application.

Community Health Worker: Salary and How to Become One

Community health care delivers essential health and social services to communities and populations. When clients struggle to access services or have barriers that prevent them from doing so, a community health worker offers advocacy and support. Healthcare professionals considering this career can explore key community health worker salary information, responsibilities, educational requirements , and other information about this role.

Community Health Worker: A Definition

Community health workers are trained healthcare professionals who offer advocacy, education, outreach, and support to community members. ​While some work in healthcare facilities, many work in and among community members, building relationships as they make outreach and healthcare programs more accessible and visible. The role blends both social and health services to encourage healthy behaviors and emphasize preventative care.

Responsibilities of a Health Worker in the Community

While specific duties can vary based on the organization and work environment, community health workers have a broad range of responsibilities. These often include:

• Visiting the homes of clients who are unable to attend community events
• Managing cases
• Offering training and education in disease management, nutrition, mental health support, and other relevant areas
• Providing basic first aid and health screening services

A community health worker’s duties may also include identifying the most culturally appropriate services and methods of communicating those services to their community.

Advance Your Public Health Career with an MPH Program

Pursue your degree online from tulane university, where do community health workers work.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 20 percent of community health workers are employed in social assistance facilities. They may also work in government facilities, ambulatory healthcare services, hospitals, and civic organizations. 

Some duties of a health worker are performed in an office setting, but many professionals spend most of their time interacting with community members, typically in homes, community buildings, or medical facilities.

How to Become a Community Health Worker

Certain entry-level community health worker positions do not require advanced degrees or training. Some states, however, require certification. To become a competitive candidate, and potentially earn a higher community health worker salary, job seekers should consider furthering their education and improving related skills.

Educational Requirements and Continuing Education

The minimum educational requirement to apply for entry-level community health worker positions is a high school diploma. Some positions, however, require a bachelor’s degree in community health or a related degree. Prospective job candidates can also consider earning a Master of Public Health (MPH) or a related degree. A postgraduate education prepares health workers to not only provide community services, but also advance their careers to leadership positions, oversee teams, evaluate programs, and research new solutions for social and healthcare services.

On-the-Job Training

Specific features of on-the-job training vary based on the work environment and state. Even in states where certification isn’t required, experiential training is a common requirement for community health workers. Training covers the broad goals of community health and any community-specific strategies and resources to ensure initiatives are relevant and appropriate. 

Necessary Skills

Working closely with clients throughout a community to assist with access to health and social services requires both interpersonal and technical skills. Here are some skills that help prospective community health workers succeed in this environment.

• Empathy: Working with clients who need assistance in connecting with critical services requires an ability to empathize with the client’s situation and a deep understanding of their personal situations.
• Problem solving: Many clients are unable to access or aren’t sure how to access all the services provided by local organizations. As a result, a community health worker must be able to identify clear ways to overcome specific obstacles.
• Effective listening and communication: Clients need to be heard and know the resources they can access for support. Community health workers should be able to understand their client’s needs and clearly recommend solutions.
• Patience: The process of delivering health and social services to communities includes many steps that can seem frustrating to clients. Community health workers should exercise patience to ensure clients get what they need.

Community Health Worker Salary Expectations

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual community health worker salary was $46,190 as of May 2022. The top 10 percent of community health workers earned over $73,730 per year, also per BLS data. Salary levels can be impacted by factors such as a candidate’s years of experience, education, and the state in which the job is located.

Career Outlook

Community health workers play an essential part in health care and social support in many communities, and their career outlook reflects this. The BLS projects a 14 percent increase in job openings for community health workers from 2022 to 2032. This is much faster than the average career growth for all U.S. occupations during that same time.

Take the Next Step With Tulane University

​​If you wish to develop key skills, start your career, or advance in community health, you would do well to explore the Online Master of Public Health (MPH) program at Tulane University. This dynamic online program offers in-depth training methodologies taught by experts and is designed to help you command a competitive community health worker salary.

Learn more about this rewarding educational pathway at Tulane University.

Recommended Readings

Community Health Promotion in Rural Areas

Strategies for Community Health Advocate: Roles and Responsibilities

What Is Healthcare Equity?

American Hospital Association Center for Health Innovation, What Is Community Health?

Indeed, “6 Steps to Becoming a Community Health Worker”

Rural Health Information Hub, Introduction to Community Health Workers

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Community Health Workers

WebMD, “What Is a Community Health Worker?”

ZipRecruiter, What Is a Community Health Worker and How to Become One

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What Does a Community Health Worker Do? And How Do I Become One

Discover the role of a community health worker and what it takes to become one, including types of community support, responsibilities, skills, and education needed.

Community health workers are a crucial and supportive link between health and social services and the communities they serve. From facilitating health care access to improving the well-being of community members, community health workers provide a service that positively impacts the lives of the nation's vulnerable groups. Many job titles fall under the umbrella of community health workers and each position's responsibilities can vary. In this article, you'll learn more about what community health workers do, their salary and job outlook, the roles that define the field, and steps you can take for this career path.

What does a community health worker do?

Community health workers (CHWs) support the community in many ways by providing outreach, maternity support, first aid, education, advocacy, and informal counseling. They are frontline public health workers who build relationships with the community to bring essential services to the people, rather than being based in a formal health facility. 

Salary and job outlook

Community health workers can expect to earn a median annual salary of $46,590 as of May 2021, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) [ 1 ]. Glassdoor estimates the average annual wage for community health workers to be $38,303 [ 2 ]. The exact figure you can expect as a community health worker will likely depend on your specific role, location, and experience level.

Overall, the need for community health workers is expected to grow faster than average. The number of job openings for health education specialists and community health workers is expected to increase by 12 percent [ 3 ].

Where they work

Community health workers may work for government-run programs, non-profit organizations, health care agencies, and other community-based organizations. 

Given that they need to be accessible by the communities they support, CHWs often move around, visiting homes, distributing information, running group programs, and being present in community locations where people know they can meet with them. 

Community health worker responsibilities

A community health worker's responsibilities will vary depending on their position. A CHW working as an advocate for children will have very different responsibilities from someone working as a community health advisor, but both will be concerned with helping their respective communities with the available resources.

Here are some common responsibilities that CHWs share:

Facilitating communication between community members and health and care organizations

Building a trusting relationship with the community in which they represent

Helping people understand their health or social conditions  

Providing advocacy for those who need it

Making home visits to high-risk patients, pregnant or nursing mothers, and the elderly

Holding groups and individual meetings with people in the community 

Delivering health care information in a way that is easy to understand

Providing informal counseling

Determining eligibility for health care plans

Collecting data to inform future programs 

Job roles in community health

Community health worker is an umbrella term that encompasses many other roles. Here are some of the most common community health worker jobs:

Community health advocate: A community health advocate works closely with patients undergoing any health care treatment to help them understand the process, health care plans, and use of medication and to assist with anything the patient needs concerning insurance and financial support. 

Family advocate: A family advocate works with families to support children’s best interests during parental disputes or cases where children could be at risk. They serve as a liaison between family, community care, and other professionals, to assess the child’s home life and make recommendations in court about the care and guardianship of the child.

Outreach worker: An outreach worker helps people in the community by liaising between them and any external agencies, groups, or services that they might be able to utilize. Each will have an area of specialism, whether that’s children and young people, the elderly community, or health care. 

Community liaison worker: A community liaison worker interacts with community members on behalf of official organizations like schools or the police if it will benefit the community member or if there has been an incident.

How to become a community health worker

CHWs provide critical health care services to some of the most vulnerable communities in the country. To handle such an important responsibility, they must receive appropriate training and experience. Here are three steps to become an effective community health worker:

1. Get educated.

Regardless of their role, community health workers must gain the training and education required to join the profession. Requirements vary considerably across states and job roles.

Typically, CHWs must have at least a high school diploma. A bachelor's degree is considered an asset, though it can certainly help you land a job. Most CHWs will receive on-the-job training. In some cases, employers might also require an associate degree or a community health worker certification through a two- or one-year program.

2. Hone the right skills.

CHWs help vulnerable communities and individuals achieve important public health care goals. You'll want to build the following skills to provide effective and empathetic care:

Interpersonal and communication skills

Relationship building skills

Time management

Knowledge of the community and its needs

Community health workers tend to be helpful and curious without being intrusive. They use empathy so that people feel comfortable speaking honestly about their issues and feel valued. Ideally, they belong to the same community as those they serve and can speak the same language.

Read more: What Is Public Health? Your Career Guide

3. Gain relevant work experience.

The more experience you have working in a specific community, the better qualified you'll be for a community health worker role. For example, anyone working in children’s services will need to have experience working with children. Similarly, those working with individuals with substance abuse issues would benefit from previous experience working with addicts or recovery programs.

Generally, any work experience working in the public space supporting individuals will be beneficial. This can consist of paid experience or even any tasks that you have undertaken voluntarily, such as caring for a relative, shopping for an elderly neighbor, or mentoring someone at school or in your community. 

Become a community health worker

If you are considering a career as a community health worker, you can learn the basics with the course Training and Learning Programs for Volunteer Community Health Workers offered by John Hopkins University on Coursera. This is also a great place to start if you are looking for paid work in this field, as it can help you form a solid understanding of the necessary principles and practices.

You could also consider the University of Michigan’s course on Foundational Skills for Communicating About Health as part of your continued professional development. 

Article sources

US BLS. " Occupational Outlook Handbook: Health Education Specialists and Community Health Workers, Pay , https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/health-educators.htm#tab-5." Accessed January 19, 2023.

Glassdoor. “ Community health worker salary information ,  https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/us-community-health-worker-salary-SRCH_IL.0,2_IN1_KO3,26.htm.” Accessed January 19, 2023.

US BLS. “ Occupational Outlook Handbook: Health Education Specialist and Community Health Workers, Job Outlook , https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/health-educators.htm#tab-6.” Accessed January 19, 2023.

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This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

The Major Distinctions Between Certified Health Education Specialists and Community Health Workers

What is the difference between a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES®) and a community health worker?

While both Certified Health Education Specialists (CHES®) and community health workers may be involved in the planning and implementation of various public and private health programs, CHES® and MCHES® training involves more diverse and extensive training in areas of health and wellness. The education requirements, distinctions, on-the-job skills, and roles of health education specialists and community health workers can also vary. We’ve provided an overview of the biggest distinctions between these two job functions.

Education Requirements

While individuals interested in achieving the specialized training offered through certified health education specialist credentialing are required to obtain at least a bachelor’s degree in a health-related program before applying for the CHES® or MCHES® credential, community health workers may pursue a career path without a college degree, although some may choose to do so. The requirements to become a community health worker and other standards vary by state, while CHES® standards are at the national and international level. 

Distinctions

Community health workers may obtain degrees related to the healthcare industry, and they often receive training which allows them to function as vital members of the community responsible for helping individuals and connecting them with valuable tools and resources. However, they are not certified through a nationally accredited certification program and are not professionally trained to serve as leaders in public health promotion and education. 

In addition to differing educational requirements and degrees, another major distinction between community health workers and CHES® is the national credentialing program offered through the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc. (NCHEC). Because of the ongoing commitment to education and training CHES® and MCHES® receive, employers and government agencies often choose to fill vital health education roles with employees who are certified health education specialist.

Community health workers who choose to pursue a higher education degree related to health or nutrition typically receive education and training which allows them to understand health and wellness programs and to communicate directly with the public. Certified health education specialists, on the other hand, receive formal academic preparation which focuses on research, program design and management, leadership, and health literacy and communications. A CHES® or MCHES® is also often responsible for communicating directly with members of the media as well as government officials in addition to community members.

Certified health education specialists are extensively trained to fulfill a variety of needs encompassing many skills, such as:

• Accessing the Needs of a Community or Organization
• Planning Health Promotion Programs and Interventions
• Implementing Health Education Programs/Interventions
• Conducting Research and Evaluation
• Serving as a Resource Person
• Promoting and advocating for Health and Health Education

While community health workers can obtain certification to become certified public health professionals, certified health education specialists have a wider and more expansive understanding of health education programs and initiatives that allow them to fill leadership positions and have a proactive part in planning and implementing new programs.

Community health workers provide an important service to their communities through informal counseling and support, outreach programs, and through the promotion of health programs like cancer screenings. Their work has a direct impact on community health initiatives which benefit citizens all over the world.

The major distinction between community health workers and certified health education specialists is the level of involvement regarding the implementation and creation of these programs. While community health workers are responsible for fulfilling many duties in order to ensure individuals have access to these programs, CHES® often work behind the scenes to create and implement these programs, which includes gathering research, analyzing data, securing funding and staff, and delivering training and support to those responsible for establishing new initiatives and goals and creating new programs or making improvements to current ones.

Is a community health worker eligible for CHES® certification?

Since there are very distinct academic requirements to become CHES® certified, the answer is: it depends on the individual degree program. Community health workers without a bachelor's or higher degree in health education, community health education, or public health education are likely not eligible for the national certification. If you are a community health worker with a degree in a health education-related major, check out our page on eligibility requirements for CHES®.

READ MORE: Should I prescreen for CHES® eligibility?

How does health education credentialing and certification help the public?

Each and every individual can identify as one of the following - an employee, a citizen, a community member, a student. In order for public and private health programs and initiatives to function properly with measurable results, well-trained and qualified employees are needed to plan and implement them. Credentialing functions as a "quality assurance mechanism", ensuring that all CHES® and MCHES® are operating with the same skill set on a national level.

READ MORE: Employers Who Hire CHES® and MCHES®

How does health education credentialing and certification benefit employers?

Employers seeking to hire individuals to create, implement, or organize health education programs or to educate members of the community on important health and wellness issues, should hire a CHES® or MCHES®. Nationally accredited credentialing ensures the candidate meets appropriate educational requirements and has passed a competency-based examination. Certification also shows a commitment to continuing competency, as additional education is required for recertification. Without credentialing, it would be difficult for an employer to know exactly which type of training a potential employee has received.

READ MORE: 3 Reasons to Hire a Certified Health Education Specialist

In addition to showing dedication to their career and health initiatives by seeking to pursue credentialing, CHES® and MCHES® are more qualified to serve as leaders and to create new programs and initiatives than many of their counterparts. Are you an employer looking to fill a position on your team? Learn more about the advantages of hiring a certified health education specialist.

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Community Health Worker Education Requirements

There are several educational requirements to become a community health worker. Community health workers usually study psychology, social work, or human services. 60% of community health workers hold a bachelor's degree, and 16% hold an associate degree. We analyzed 3,391 real community health worker resumes to see exactly what community health worker education sections show.

The most common colleges for community health workers are the Temple University and the Temple University.

There are also many online community health worker courses to help get the education required to be a community health worker.

There are certain community health worker certifications that you should consider. These community health worker certifications include Certified in Public Health (CPH) and First Aid, CPR and AED Instructor.

What education do you need to become a community health worker?

What degree do you need to be a community health worker.

The most common degree for community health workers is bachelor's degree, with 60% of community health workers earning that degree. The second and third most common degree levels are associate degree degree at 16% and associate degree degree at 12%.

• Bachelor's , 60%
• Associate , 16%
• Master's , 12%
• High School Diploma , 6%
• Other Degrees , 6%

What should I major in to become a community health worker?

According to Ted Eaves , Associate Teaching Professor at Wake Forest University, a community health worker should find an area they are passionate about, such as health care, research, or behavioral medicine. The most popular majors for this career are psychology, social work, human services, and public health. Health education specialists typically need at least a bachelor's degree, while community health workers typically need at least a high school diploma and may benefit from a 1-year certificate or 2-year associate's degree.

• Psychology , 16%
• Social Work , 10%
• Human Services , 8%
• Criminal Justice , 8%
• Other Majors , 58%

Most common colleges for community health workers

Community health workers often get their degrees at Temple University, University of Phoenix, and Pennsylvania State University. Here are the most common colleges for community health workers in the US based on their resumes.

Best majors for community health workers

Best colleges for community health workers.

The best colleges for a community health worker include University of Southern California, California State University - Long Beach, and San Jose State University. These institutions matter for community health workers as they offer education at various levels, from high school diplomas to doctorates, with a focus on bachelor's degrees. Earning a degree from these colleges can lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries.

1. University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA • Private

In-State Tuition

2. California State University - Long Beach

Long Beach, CA • Private

3. San Jose State University

San Jose, CA • Private

4. San Diego State University

San Diego, CA • Private

5. Northwestern University

Evanston, IL • Private

6. SUNY Stony Brook

Stony Brook, NY • Private

7. University of Washington

Seattle, WA • Private

8. California State University - Dominguez Hills

Carson, CA • Private

9. University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

Minneapolis, MN • Private

10. University of Utah

Salt Lake City, UT • Private

20 best online courses for community health workers

1. Health for All Through Primary Health Care

This course explores why primary health care is central for achieving Health for All. It provides examples of how primary health care has been instrumental in approaching this goal in selected populations and how the principles of primary health care can guide future policies and actions. Two of the most inspiring, least understood, and most often derided terms in global health discourse are “Health for All” and “Primary Health Care.” In this course, we will explore these terms in the context...

2. Foundational Skills for Communicating About Health

Effective communication is a core skill that nearly every health professional will need and use during their careers. Yet, few health professionals receive even basic training in how to design communications to be clear and successful. As “foundational skills,” the content in this course can be applied to both oral and written communication, within and beyond health. Learners will develop the skills to: analyze and tailor a communication effort for different audiences, develop clear messages,...

3. Mental Health Ambassador Certificate

Be a leader in improving society's mental health and learn to provide mental health first aid...

4. Addiction & Mental Health (Dual Diagnosis) Integrative 12hrs

Substance Abuse & Mental Health Interventions: Drug & Alcohol Addiction & Mental Health - Integrative Holistic Approach...

5. Health After Cancer: Cancer Survivorship for Primary Care

This course presents basic principles of cancer survivorship to primary-care physicians. Developed by a team of experts in caring for cancer survivors, and narrated by a primary-care physician, this course provides practical tips and tools that can be easily integrated into medical practice. You will learn about the complex physical and psychosocial needs and concerns of the growing number of cancer survivors, along with the key role that primary care physicians have in guiding these patients...

6. Social Determinants of Health

This is an introductory course on social determinants of population health with a focus on the United States. The course will introduce you to, or reinforce your knowledge of, issues related to health that consider behavioral, psychological and structural factors in population health beyond the healthcare system. We will examine social, economic, and political factors that contribute to health inequalities and suggest innovative ways to reduce disparities in health when the goal is to achieve...

7. Managing mental health issues in the workplace

Learn how to support your own mental health and wellbeing and that of your staff...

8. Health Data 101

An Introduction to Health Data for data analysts...

9. Evaluation of Digital Health Interventions

This course focuses on data, evaluation methods and the economic evaluation of digital health interventions. This module focuses on key data considerations for digital health including data management, data visualisation and methods for evaluating digital health interventions. The key focus is on experimental and quasi-experimental design approaches that can be applied to evaluating digital health interventions and key considerations for the economic evaluation of digital health interventions...

10. Health Care Delivery in Healthcare Organizations

Have you ever needed health care and thought that there must be better ways to get or deliver health care? For example, have you found yourself thinking that there should be a way to get a diagnostic test or treatment at home? Or do you work in a healthcare organization and find yourself thinking that there must be better ways to deliver health care? If you have, this course is for you. Course content includes an overview of health care delivery including healthcare consumerism, the patient's...

11. Addiction & Mental Health - Chemically Speaking Two (2hrs)

Substance Abuse & Mental Health Interventions - Understand Drug & Alcohol Addiction & Mental Health. How to help people...

12. Internationally Accredited Diploma in Health & Wellness

Learn about holistic health, wellness, key biomarkers, good sleep and ways to optimize your health...

13. The Business of Health Care

This Specialization was designed to help you keep pace with the rapidly changing world of health and health care. Through partnership with Wharton and Penn Medicine, you’ll learn from experts in business acumen, health care management, and health care policy to develop the skills you’ll need to successfully navigate the quickly evolving landscape of this fast-growing field.* By the end of this specialization, you will have a strong foundational understanding of the American health care system,...

14. Data and Health Indicators in Public Health Practice

Epidemiology is often described as the cornerstone science in public health. Epidemiology in public health practice uses study design and analyses to identify causes in an outbreak situation, guides interventions to improve population health, and evaluates programs and policies. In this course, we'll define the role of the professional epidemiologist as it relates to public health services, functions, and competencies. With that foundation in mind, we'll introduce you to the problem solving...

15. Mental Health and Wellness Professional (MHW) Diploma Course

Discover a flexible and comprehensive way of understanding mental health as a Certified Mental Health Professional (MHP)...

16. Health Coaching Certification Holistic Wellness Health Coach

Health Coaching Practitioner Course Graduates Prepared Health Coaching Specialists in Holistic Wellness Health Coaching...

17. Mental Health First Aid Skills -

This course is designed to provide the tools and knowledge for learners to help and support those experiencing MH issues...

18. Workplace Mental Health: A Manager's Ultimate Guide

How to manage mental health in the workplace to boost productivity and be the best boss!...

19. Mental Health and Neuroplasticity: Change your Brain

10 Alternatives to Medication to Improve Mental Health - Research backed treatments for Depression and Anxiety...

20. Health Masterclass: How To Transform Your Health & Life

Master The 3 Surprising Steps That Can Finally Transform Your Health In The Next 30 Days...

Top 10 most affordable universities for community health workers

The most affordable schools for community health workers are University of Florida, hunter college of the city university of new york, and california state university - long beach.

If the best universities for community health workers are out of your price range, check out these affordable schools. After factoring in in-state tuition and fees, the average cost of attendance, admissions rate, average net price, and mean earnings after six years, we found that these are the most affordable schools for community health workers.

1. University of Florida

Gainesville, FL • Private

Cost of Attendance

2. Hunter College of the City University of New York

New York, NY • Private

3. California State University - Long Beach

4. California State University - Fullerton

Fullerton, CA • Private

5. Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL • Private

6. Brigham Young University

Provo, UT • Private

7. California State University - Los Angeles

9. University of South Florida

Tampa, FL • Private

10. Florida International University

Miami, FL • Private

Top 10 hardest universities to get into for community health workers

The hardest universities for community health workers to get into are Northwestern University, Washington University in St Louis, and University of Southern California.

Some great schools for community health workers are hard to get into, but they also set your career up for greater success. The list below shows the most challenging universities to get into for community health workers based on an institution's admissions rates, average SAT scores accepted, median ACT scores accepted, and mean earnings of students six years after admission.

1. Northwestern University

Admissions Rate

SAT Average

2. Washington University in St Louis

Saint Louis, MO • Private

3. University of Southern California

4. Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD • Private

5. University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA • Private

6. Columbia University in the City of New York

7. Boston University

Boston, MA • Private

8. New York University

9. Northeastern University

10. Case Western Reserve University

Cleveland, OH • Private

Top 10 easy-to-apply-to universities for community health workers

The easiest schools for community health workers to get into are Barry University, kean university, and d'youville college.

Some schools are much easier to get into. If you want to start your career as a community health worker without much hassle, check out the list of schools where you will be accepted in no time. We compiled admissions rates, average SAT scores, average ACT scores, and average salary of students six years after graduation to uncover which were the easiest schools to get into for community health workers.

1. Barry University

2. Kean University

Union, NJ • Private

3. D'Youville College

Buffalo, NY • Private

4. Nyack College

5. Saint Joseph's College of Maine

Standish, ME • Private

6. William Paterson University of New Jersey

Wayne, NJ • Private

7. Marymount University

Arlington, VA • Private

8. The University of Texas at El Paso

El Paso, TX • Private

9. Mount Saint Mary's University

10. Texas Woman's University

Denton, TX • Private

Average community health worker salary by education level

According to our data, community health workers with a Master's degree earn the highest average salary, at $42,300 annually. Community health workers with a Bachelor's degree earn an average annual salary of $37,557.

Community Health Worker Education FAQs

What is the best college for community health workers, search for community health worker jobs.

Updated April 5, 2024

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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Quick Guide to the California Community Health Worker Core Competencies

Community health workers (CHWs) have been working in California for years. CHWs, as well as  promotores , community health representatives (CHRs) and other health promoters, help people in marginalized communities find food and insurance and manage chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. They are major doers for people living in California who need a healthcare boost.

California recognizes the usefulness of CHWs and is pushing for a benefit for them in the Medi-Cal program. This means that CHWs can be paid for providing benefits and services to people enrolled in Medi-Cal.

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CHW Core Competencies

Find out all about what the CHW Core Competencies are, CHW roles, CHW careers, how to cross-train your staff, and how to get state certifications for the CHWs on your team

Are CHW Core Competencies Required In California?

Many states set guidelines for CHW core competencies. California does not require certification of CHWs or provide licensure for them. But they may in the future. Many agencies, employers and organizations are staying up to date on competencies and providing training to CHWs in advance of any requirements.

Medi-Cal Reimbursement for CHWs

Your agency can earn Medi-Cal reimbursement for your CHWs if you meet these criteria:

• Lived Experience: CHWs must have lived experience that aligns with and provides a connection between the CHW and the community or population being served.
• CHW Certificate:  A certificate of completion from an organization such as CHWTraining in the competencies listed below.

Or follow the Work Experience Pathway, listed below.

Training For Core CHW Competencies

According to the California Health Care Foundation, which released a  resource package  providing information for training CHWs and  promotores :

The first level of training for CHW/Ps (community health workers/promotores) focuses on understanding CHW/P positions, developing and strengthening core CHW/P competencies, and preparing individuals to lead in their communities.

While CHW/P positions can vary widely, the core competencies … reflect common skills across many CHW/P positions. These core competencies are shared by many individuals in the community-connected health workforce across different settings, including within medical, public health, behavioral health, and CBO employers.

CHW Core Competencies for California

California has identified the following as the Core CHW/P Competencies:

• Communication . The ability to break down complex concepts for patients, use active and empathetic listening, and identify and overcome communicational barriers between patients and care providers.
• Interpersonal and relationship building . Build rapport with clients, use motivational interviewing techniques, and work as part of a team for the greater good.
• Service coordination and navigation . Help clients access the care they need, whether this means facilitating transportation, providing instructions, or explaining how the healthcare system or insurance works.
• Capacity building . Help individuals advocate for themselves by helping them understand their needs and rights, developing their capacities, and identifying local leaders that can aid the program’s mission.
• Advocacy . Identify the community’s needs and speak up on their behalf in front of the necessary agencies or providers.
• Education and facilitation . Encourage patients to learn about their own health risks and ways to prevent disease as well as facilitate the information for them to do so.
• Individual and community assessment . Use formal assessment tools to determine the starting point for individuals and communities.
• Outreach . Educate communities about the programs and services available to them and how to access them, as well as learn the best ways to communicate with a population and put those into practice for greater efficacy.
• Professional skills and conduct . Effective management of time, resources, and priorities while making use of the tools and technology available for the program. Along with ethical standards and conducts such as laws, bills, and other institutional guidelines.
• Evaluation and research . Use evidence-based practices for research and evaluate, identify, and find the root causes of issues in order to address them.
• Knowledge base . Basic knowledge of public health principles and social determinants of health, as determined by the supervising provider.

Work Experience Pathway

California has identified the following recommendations for a work experience pathway for CHWs:

• 2,000 hours working as a CHW in a paid or volunteer position within the previous three years, and demonstrated skills and practical training in core competencies, as determined by a supervisor.
• A CHW demonstrating qualifications through the Work Experience Pathway, who does not have a certificate of completion as described above, shall earn a certificate of completion within one year of the first CHW visit provided to a Medi-Cal beneficiary.

More information is available from DHCS .

Ready to train your California CHWs?

Contact CHWTraining today for a free consultation to review the full list of training modules and any updates.

Core Competencies for CHWs

Register now for this foundational course and save with the Early Bird Discount.