How to Become a Diabetes Educator

Because of the growing diabetic population, there is a major need for certified diabetes educators across the country. In order to become a diabetes educator, however, there are several criteria that must be met. Once these criteria are met, you will reach a position where you can help thousands of people diagnosed with diabetes and teach them how to properly manage their condition.

Instructions

• 1

  Obtain a formal education from an accredited school. A Master's degree in a health care related subject is the minimum for this requirement.

• 2

  Complete at least 2 years of professional practice as a doctor, licensed nurse, pharmacist, dietitian or other health care provider. You'll need to become specifically involved with diabetes education for the duration of the two qualifying years.

• 3

  Acquire at least a thousand hours of experience in a health care environment where you provide services as a diabetes educator. Though you will not be licensed in this capacity until you have met all the requirements, you must have been actively involved in the role of diabetes educator.

• 4

  Hold a job in a health care facility that treats diabetes on a regular basis. You must be employed at least 4 days a week, or the equivalent of 32 hours per 7 days.

• 5

  Sign up for the exam. The test is offered twice a year at various locations throughout the country. Check the website for the National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators for test dates and locations (see Resources below).

• 6

  Pay the exam fee of $350. This fee is nonrefundable, and will not be returned if you fail the test.

• 7

  Take the exam. The test consists of 200 questions, 25 of which are control questions that are used for statistical evaluation and may be used on future tests. You'll have 4 hours to complete the exam to become a diabetes educator.

• 8

  Maintain your certification by retaking the exam or gaining continuing education credits every 5 years.