Is an Online PhD Accepted for State Licensure and Board Certification?

With the increasing popularity of online doctoral programs, many professionals are asking whether an online PhD in Exercise Science is accepted for state licensure and national board certification. The short answer is yes; online PhD programs are widely accepted when they meet accreditation standards and demonstrate academic rigor. However, requirements can vary depending on the state and type of licensure or certification sought.

This blog provides an overview of the key factors influencing acceptance, examples from various states and organizations and guidance on how Concordia University Chicago’s online PhD in Exercise Science supports your professional goals.

Growing Acceptance of Online PhDs

Online education is no longer seen as an alternative path—it is a mainstream method of learning used by respected institutions nationwide. In 2025, most professional licensing boards will recognize online doctoral degrees if the program is accredited and meets the same academic standards as an in-person counterpart.

This is especially true for degrees in health, education and science fields, where knowledge, research capability and practical experience weigh more heavily than course format. An online PhD in Exercise Science prepares students for leadership roles in clinical, academic and research settings and is increasingly accepted by state licensing boards and national certification organizations.

Accreditation Is the Cornerstone

When it comes to licensure and certification, accreditation is often the first factor considered. Programs that are regionally accredited and align with the standards of professional accrediting bodies, such as the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) or the American Society of Exercise Physiologists (ASEP), are typically viewed as equivalent to on-campus programs.

These accreditations ensure the curriculum meets or exceeds national expectations in terms of academic depth, faculty qualifications and practical competencies. For licensure and board certification, the quality and accreditation of the program carry more weight than whether the coursework was completed in person or online.

Understanding What States and Boards Require

Requirements for licensure vary by state and by profession. In most cases, licensure boards review:

• Whether the degree is from a regionally accredited institution

• Whether the program includes required coursework or clinical experience

• The applicant’s GPA (usually 3.0 or higher)

• Any practical experience or supervised training hours

• Whether the national exam requirements have been fulfilled

Boards are increasingly format-agnostic, meaning they do not distinguish between online and traditional programs if these key components are met.

Examples of State-Level Acceptance

To illustrate how states evaluate online PhDs, here are a few examples:

• California: For roles such as physical therapy licensure after a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), California accepts online degrees provided they meet academic and clinical hour requirements.

• Kentucky: Recognizes online doctoral degrees in education and exercise science for state-level roles in educational leadership, research and health promotion.

• General Nationwide Trends: More than 95% of states recognize online degrees for licensure when they are earned from regionally accredited institutions. This includes roles in exercise physiology, health science, kinesiology and education-related positions.

While acceptance is broad, it’s important to check with your specific state licensing board to understand their exact criteria. Each board may have slightly different standards or may require supplemental documentation, such as transcripts, course syllabi or supervised practicum hours.

What About Board Certifications?

In addition to state licensure, professionals often pursue national certifications such as:

• Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP)

• Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (NSCA-CSCS)

• Exercise Physiologist Certified (ASEP EPC)

These organizations place strong emphasis on academic background, clinical experience and exam performance. All three accept online PhDs that come from accredited institutions and meet their core subject requirements.

In fact, the American Society of Exercise Physiologists has stated that what matters most is academic rigor and practical competence, not the mode of delivery. Concordia University Chicago’s online PhD in Exercise Science is designed with these criteria in mind and prepares graduates to meet or exceed professional expectations.

Ensuring Competency Through Curriculum and Experience

Licensing boards and certification organizations want assurance that applicants are prepared to perform their duties safely and effectively. This is achieved by reviewing:

• Course content aligned with national competencies

• Capstone or dissertation research demonstrating subject mastery

• Any internships, residencies or clinical placements completed during the program

CUC’s PhD program integrates these elements to help students build not only academic knowledge but also professional confidence. While it is delivered online, the program includes support for practical application and research that meets or exceeds industry standards.

How to Check Your State’s Requirements

Each state publishes licensure requirements on its respective licensing board website. To verify whether your online PhD will be accepted:

1. Identify your target licensure or certification (e.g., clinical exercise physiologist, health educator, university faculty).
2. Visit the relevant board’s website to download current requirements.
3. Confirm the board accepts regionally accredited online degrees.
4. Review any requirements for field experience, practicum or exam eligibility.
5. Contact the board directly if any details are unclear or if you need documentation from your university.

Most states are transparent and provide helpful resources for applicants pursuing nontraditional education pathways, including online degrees.

How Concordia University Chicago Supports Your Goals

CUC is regionally accredited and recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and student support. The online PhD in Exercise Science offers a curriculum that aligns with national standards for exercise physiology, kinesiology, leadership and research.

Graduates are prepared to pursue:

• State licensure in applicable health and education fields

• Board certification from ASEP, ACSM and NSCA

• Leadership roles in academia, research institutions, clinical settings and athletic organizations

While every licensing journey is unique, Concordia’s program is designed to help students meet both academic and professional benchmarks with confidence.

Take the Next Step with Us

Your doctoral degree should do more than elevate your knowledge; it should open doors to professional opportunities. If you’re ready to pursue licensure or certification and want a program that helps you get there, Concordia University Chicago is here to guide you.

• Learn more: Explore the PhD in Exercise Science.

• Talk with an advisor: Book a one-on-one call.