International
Qualification
Framework (IQF)
Welcome to the International Universities Strength and Conditioning Association (IUSCA) portal for the International Qualification Framework (IQF) and the IQF Independent Regulatory Council (IQF-IRC). Here, we provide detailed information about our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of education and professional practice in the strength and conditioning field.
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What is the International Qualification Framework (IQF)?
The International Qualification Framework (IQF) is a comprehensive global standard designed to align strength and conditioning certifications, qualifications, and educational programs. Developed through extensive research and stakeholder engagement, the IQF ensures transparency, consistency, and international recognition of qualifications within the profession.
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Key Objectives of the IQF:
Standardization: Align international certifications and qualifications with a universal rating system.
Transparency: Provide clear understanding of qualification levels and equivalencies across different regions and organizations.
Mobility: Facilitate global recognition and mobility for strength and conditioning professionals.
Quality Assurance: Uphold high standards of education and professional practice.
Structure of the IQF
Developed following the landmark academic paper published by the International Universities Strength and Conditioning Association, The IQF uses a standardized rating system, modelled after the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) and Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), which categorizes qualifications into levels from 1 to 8.
These levels correspond to different stages of education and professional development:
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Level 1: Foundational learning, equivalent to early school education.
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Level 2: Basic knowledge and skills, comparable to high school education.
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Level 3: Intermediate knowledge, suitable for further education or entry-level work.
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Level 4: Advanced knowledge, suitable for independent work in the field.
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Level 5: Advanced learning and professional skills, working towards a degree.
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Level 6: Degree level knowledge, competencies, and professional skills.
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Level 7: Specialized knowledge for expert professional practice, equivalent to a master's degree.
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Level 8: Highest level of academic and professional achievement, equivalent to a doctoral degree.
What is the IQF Independent Regulatory Council (IQF-IRC)?
The IQF Independent Regulatory Council (IQF-IRC) is the authoritative body responsible for overseeing the self-regulatory framework and ensuring that qualifications within the IQF meet established standards. The IQF-IRC plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity, credibility, and international recognition of strength and conditioning certifications.
Responsibilities of the IQF-IRC:
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Evaluation and Verification: Assess and verify the qualifications and certifications to ensure they meet IQF standards.
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Accreditation: Oversee the accreditation of educational programs that align with the IQF.
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Compliance: Ensure ongoing compliance with independent self-regulatory standards through monitoring and audits.
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Appeals and Disputes: Handle appeals and disputes related to certification and accreditation.
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Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and update the IQF to reflect industry developments and stakeholder feedback.
Chair of the IQF-IRC | Professor David Morley
The IQF-IRC recently announced the appointment of Professor David Morley as its new Chair.
Prof. Morley, a distinguished senior leader and mentor with extensive experience in sports, physical education, and coaching, will lead the Council in its mission to maintain the integrity and credibility of certifications globally.
Prof. Morley's career spans significant leadership roles across academia in the UK and Australia, where he has served as Associate Dean, Dean, and in various faculty and executive team positions. His partnerships with major organizations such as Nike, Manchester United FC, England Rugby League, the Australian Institute of Sport, and Sport England underscore his deep connection with the industry and his commitment to fostering excellence in S&C education.
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“As Chair, I have the privilege of working alongside esteemed colleagues who are at the peak of their S&C careers, renowned for understanding the vocational requirements of S&C practitioners across diverse contexts,” said Prof. Morley.
“Our role as an Independent Regulatory Council is to support organizations in their continuous improvement within the S&C profession. My responsibility as Chair is to oversee this critical function with the integrity and fastidiousness it deserves.”
Benefits of the IQF-IRC
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For Professionals
Enhanced credibility and recognition of qualifications globally.
Clear pathways for career development and advancement.
Assurance of high standards in education and practice.
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For Employers
Easy comparison of candidate qualifications on an international scale.
Confidence in the competence and professionalism of certified individuals.
Access to a larger pool of qualified professionals.
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For Educational Institutions
Accreditation that aligns with international standards.
Increased attractiveness to prospective students seeking industry qualifications.
Collaboration opportunities with a global network of institutions.
Get Involved
We encourage all stakeholders, including strength and conditioning professionals, educational institutions, and employers, to engage with the IQF and the IQF-IRC. Your feedback and participation are vital to the continuous improvement and success of this independent self-regulatory framework.
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Contact Us
For more information about the IQF and the IQF-IRC, please contact us at iqf@iusca.org