Supporting Lifelong Learning, Comment on new CEPH Accreditation Criterion

We Need Your Support!

The Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) is proposing a new lifelong learning accreditation criterion for MPH programs. If adopted, this would be a meaningful shift toward recognizing that public health education does not end at graduation and continues throughout a professional’s career. It would also be a big boost for the promoting the CPH certification! 

The proposed Lifelong Learning criteria is: 

Unit defines plan to ensure cultivation of skills and mindsets needed for ongoing learning and growth as public health professionals throughout graduates’ careers.

All students exposed to professional structures to support lifelong learning, specifically: 

• APHA & state or regional PHAs as appropriate
• CPH credential
• Any other relevant orgs or credentials specific to the unit and/or plan of study, as applicable

The commentary period is open now and closes May 19, 2026.  As a supporter of lifelong learning and public health certification, we need you to voice your support! 

How to Submit a Comment

When submitting your comment:

• Make a clear statement of support “I strongly support the addition of the lifelong learning criterion in the proposed MPH accreditation updates”   See our suggested language below.
• Keep it simple. Clear simple statements of support are needed.  But do personalize the statement from your own perspective.  Tell CEPH why you think the lifelong learning criterion (and inclusion of the CEPH) is important, from a personal or professional perspective.  
• Review the proposed changes on Summary of Changes PDF
• Draft your comment 
• Submit your comment through CEPH’s Public Comment Form

Suggested Comment Language

Suggestion #1

I strongly support the addition of the lifelong learning criterion in the proposed MPH accreditation updates. Public health practice requires ongoing development of knowledge and skills, and this criterion appropriately recognizes that responsibility.

Embedding lifelong learning expectations within accreditation standards will better prepare graduates for sustained professional growth and align academic preparation with workforce realities. I encourage CEPH to adopt this criterion as proposed. 

Suggestion # 2

I strongly support the inclusion of the lifelong learning criterion in the proposed accreditation standards. Public health professionals must continuously update their knowledge and skills to respond to evolving health challenges, emerging evidence, and changing community needs.

This criterion strengthens the connection between academic preparation and long-term workforce development by emphasizing habits and expectations around continuous learning. It also aligns with existing professional standards and certification pathways that promote ongoing competency.

I recommend adopting this criterion as proposed.