Accreditation

Distance Education and Training Council (DETC)

ISSA is proud to be accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC), which is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a nationally recognized accrediting agency, and is a recognized member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

Our accreditation assures our students, the fitness industry, and the general public that we, as a distance-education provider and certification body:


1. have met the performance standards of the USDoE and CHEA;
2. provide the quality of education we claim;
3. operate on a sound financial basis;
4. have approved programs of study, qualified instructors, adequate facilities and equipment;
5. utilize effective recruitment and admission policies; and
6. advertise our courses truthfully.

We believe that a USDoE- and CHEA-recognized accreditation helps to legitimize the perception of fitness educators by the public, and gives the entire profession more credibility as wellness providers. We also believe that DETC accreditation is congruent with IHRSA's mission to "protect and promote the health and fitness industry."

Why not NCCA?

NCCA is not recognized by the U.S. Dept. of Education to grant accreditation nor are they recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

Further, the NCCA does not accredit institutions or educational programs, only examinations. NCCA specifically states that any organization that seeks accreditation of their examination cannot require candidates to take any of their courses, classes, training, or workshops as a prerequisite to sit for their examination.

It is for these reasons that the ISSA chose to seek accreditation from the DETC, as they truly represent the platinum level of accreditation.