Higher-Level Credentials
Ready to take your career to the next level? AFPA’s Higher Level Credentials are designed for ambitious professionals who want to build deeper expertise, stack credentials, and stand out in the wellness market.
Maximize Your Credentials and Your Impact
When you’re serious about your career, higher-level credentials open doors to more clients, better results, and greater earning potential. Our health coaching, nutrition, and fitness certification advanced pathways combine core certifications with specialized expertise so you can offer a broader range of services.
Why a Higher-Level Credential is a Smart Choice
Higher-level credentials help you go beyond foundational skills and position yourself as a true expert. Whether you want to become a Certified Master Health and Wellness Coach, Master Level Personal Trainer, Master Level Nutrition Coach, or a Certified Holistic Health Coach, earning advanced certifications shows clients and employers that you’re committed to excellence.
Stack Credentials to Broaden Your Expertise
Combine multiple certifications to expand your skills and services.
Earn a Coveted Higher-Level Credential
Showcase your commitment and credibility with individual certifications, plus an advanced credential.
Attract More Clients and Higher Rates
Advanced credentials help you stand out and justify premium pricing.
Stand Out in the Wellness Industry
Build authority and trust by going beyond baseline certification.
Save Money and Simplify Renewal
Unlike a bundle, higher-level credentials require only one renewal fee and a single set of CECs, saving you time and money long-term.
Future-Proof Your Career
Stay relevant and ready for industry trends and evolving client needs.
Higher-Level Credential FAQ
What are higher-level credentials? Answer
These are stacked certification programs that help you develop deeper expertise across disciplines.
AFPA currently offers the following higher-level credentials:
What’s the difference between a higher-level credential and a certification bundle? Answer
A higher-level credential lets you earn multiple certifications and a prestigious overarching title (like Certified Master Health and Wellness Coach, Certified Master Level Nutrition Consultant, Certified Master Level Personal Trainer, or Holistic Health Coach).
With a higher-level credential, you only need to pay one renewal fee and submit one set of CECs to maintain all certifications included, making it simpler and more affordable to keep your credentials current.
A certification bundle, by contrast, is simply a collection of discounted courses. You still earn individual certifications, but each must be renewed separately, with separate fees and CEC submissions. Plus, a bundle does not grant an advanced title.
Who should pursue higher-level credentials? Answer
They’re ideal for aspiring certified health coaches, trainers, coaches, and wellness professionals who want to offer a variety of skillsets and serve more diverse clients.
Can I complete these programs online? Answer
Yes! All higher-level credentials are fully online, giving you the flexibility to study from anywhere.
How long does it take to complete a higher-level credential? Answer
You will have two years from the date of enrollment to complete the four courses in the Master Level Nutrition Consultant or Master Level Personal Trainer Certification programs, or one year from the date of enrollment to complete the two courses within the Holistic Health Coach Certification. You have one year from the date of enrollment to complete the self-study component of the Certified Master Health and Wellness Coach program, and the live component is completed once you complete your live sessions.
Will I receive certificates for each program I complete? Answer
Yes. You’ll receive individual certificates for each course within a bundle, as well as a final credential that reflects your higher-level achievement.
How many continuing education credits (CECs) do I need to maintain my higher-level credential? Answer
16 CECs are required every two years to maintain your higher-level credential and each individual credential within it. Our CE Advantage membership is designed to help you meet this requirement with ease. Plus, members get waived renewal fees and unlimited exam retests.
Learn more about AFPA renewal requirements.