Cost

Members of the National Consortium for Health Science Education (NCHSE) may purchase the pre-and post-tests for $12 each. The non-member price for the pre-and post-test is $15 each.  Students are allowed to retake the post-test one time at the same price as paid for the first post-test.  NOTE: Some states have made arrangements for all completers to take the post-test under a statewide purchasing agreement. Check the State-Specific section for additional information that may be available on administering the National Health Science Assessment in your state.

Components

The National Health Science Assessment is based upon the National Healthcare Foundation Standards and Accountability Criteria.  The assessment program includes the following components:

1. Portfolio (optional) - Although it is not a required element of the certificate program, students are strongly encouraged to complete a portfolio, which is a collection of evidence of the student's accomplishments towards preparing for a career.  The National Consortium for Health Science Education (NCHSE) has developed a rubric to use when evaluating portfolios that aligns with that used by the National Health Occupations Student Association (HOSA).
2. Pre-Test (optional) - The pretest provides an indication of what students know upon entry into a health science plan of study.  Pretesting is not a prerequisite for taking the National Health Science Assessment (post-test).  The pretest is available for ordering through Jan. 31st.
3. Post-test - The post-test measures student mastery of the basic knowledge and skills needed by all healthcare workers.  Students scoring 60 percent or higher on the National Health Science Assessment (post-test only) receive a certificate recognizing their accomplishment.

Written Test Plan

Both the pre- and post-test consist of 100 multiple-choice test items that align directly to the National Healthcare Foundation Standards.  The assessments are delivered online and provide immediate results feedback.  The chart below identifies the number of items per standard on the test.