The International Qualification Framework (IQF) is a groundbreaking global standard designed to enhance the transparency, consistency, and mobility of qualifications within the strength and conditioning profession.
Developed following rigorous research and collaboration with key stakeholders, the IQF aligns strength and conditioning certifications and qualifications across international borders, offering a standardized system that will benefit professionals, employers, and educational institutions worldwide.
What is the IQF?
The IQF is a comprehensive, internationally recognized framework that categorizes qualifications into eight levels, ensuring clarity and consistency in how strength and conditioning credentials are understood globally. Modelled after established systems such as the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) and the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), the IQF aims to create a transparent system for evaluating the knowledge, skills, and competencies of professionals in the field.
Key Objectives of the IQF Include:
Standardization: Establish a universal rating system for certifications and qualifications, fostering consistency across regions.
Transparency: Provide clear insights into the equivalencies of qualifications and the levels of competency required for each stage of professional development.
Mobility: Facilitate the global recognition of qualifications, enabling professionals to work internationally with confidence.
Quality Assurance: Ensure high standards in education and professional practice through a rigorous accreditation and verification process.
Structured for Professional Development
The IQF’s eight levels are designed to align with various stages of education and career progression within the strength and conditioning industry:
Level 1: Foundational learning (equivalent to early school education)
Level 2: Basic knowledge and skills (similar to high school education)
Level 3: Intermediate knowledge (for entry-level roles or further education)
Levels 4-6: Advanced professional skills (equivalent to undergraduate degrees)
Level 7: Specialized knowledge for expert practice (equivalent to a master’s degree)
Level 8: The highest level of academic and professional achievement (doctoral level)
IQF-IRC: A New Era of International Regulation
To ensure the credibility and integrity of the IQF, the IQF Independent Regulatory Council (IQF-IRC) has been established. The IQF-IRC is responsible for overseeing the self-regulatory framework of the IQF, including evaluating certifications, accrediting educational programs, and ensuring compliance with established standards. This body plays a crucial role in maintaining the international recognition of strength and conditioning qualifications.
The IQF-IRC’s responsibilities include:
Evaluation & Verification: Ensuring that qualifications meet established IQF standards.
Accreditation: Accrediting educational programs that align with the framework.
Compliance: Monitoring adherence to the framework through regular audits.
Appeals & Disputes: Resolving issues related to certification and accreditation.
Continuous Improvement: Regularly updating the IQF in response to industry advancements.
Why the IQF Matters:
The launch of the IQF offers numerous benefits to various stakeholders in the strength and conditioning field:
For Professionals: A globally recognized qualification system that enhances credibility and provides clear career pathways.
For Employers: A reliable way to assess candidate qualifications, ensuring competence and professionalism in hiring decisions.
For Educational Institutions: An opportunity for accreditation aligned with international standards, increasing attractiveness to prospective students and fostering global partnerships.
Get Involved
The IQF is an open framework, inviting collaboration and feedback from all stakeholders, including strength and conditioning professionals, employers, and educational institutions. As the profession continues to evolve, the active participation of these groups is crucial to ensuring the success and continued development of the IQF.
“We are excited to see how the IQF will shape the future of the strength and conditioning industry by offering a transparent, globally recognized standard that supports professionals at every stage of their careers,” said Prof. David Morley, Chair of the IQF-IRC. “This is just the beginning, and we look forward to working together with the global community to strengthen the future of the profession.”
For more information on the IQF and how to get involved, visit www.iusca.org/iqf
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