QAS 2.0 FAQ

What is the QAS 2.0 Program?
The QAS 2.0 or Qualified Association Specialist Certificate Program provides anyone a broad base view of the key elements in running an association.  The program contains 13 modules on association management.

The program is perfect for the following:

• New hires in an association
• Someone working towards their CAE
• Staff who have never had any formal training in how associations operate
• Provide interdepartmental cross training
• Incoming Leadership or new volunteer
• Any Supplier wanting to better understand association clients (Third-Party Meeting Planners, CPAs, Attorneys, Hoteliers, etc.)

Is any future QAS training/renewal required?
No – QAS 2.0 is a certificate program and does not expire. It is not a certification, but it can help you on your certification journey towards a Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation, or any other continuing education where hours are required.

I’ve worked for associations for years.  Will I still get anything out of it?
Absolutely!  Each module of the QAS program is taught by seasoned experts, many who are CAEs, who will bring you the latest in knowledge and trends on each of the course modules. No matter how long you have worked at an association or your experience, you will learn something new from the QAS 2.0 program.

Why are you launching a 2.0 version of QAS?
We introduced the Qualified Association Specialist (QAS) Certificate program over a decade ago to provide comprehensive Association Management 101 training. Since then, thousands of professionals have completed the program and earned their certificate—helping to strengthen associations across the country. But a lot has changed in the industry over the years. New challenges, technologies, and trends have reshaped the way associations operate. To stay relevant and impactful, QAS must evolve too. That’s why we’re excited to launch QAS 2.0—a refreshed and modernized version of the original program. With updated content, new speakers, timely topics, and an all-new design, QAS 2.0 reflects the current realities of association management and prepares professionals for what’s next.

How can the QAS 2.0 program help my professional development?
“Silos” are one of the biggest challenges in associations today. Staff members are typically only knowledgeable in their area of the workplace: membership knows membership, meetings know meetings, finance knows finance, etc. The QAS Program provides a working knowledge of every aspect of running an association. Instead of just knowing your specific area, understanding all facets of associations makes you a much more valuable team member – either in your current position or one you are looking to move into.

Who are the speakers for each of the sessions?
Each of the speakers are long time experts within their field, with many being CAE’s and well known in the association community.  Most are active in either the American Society of Association Executives or their local, State Society.  

Speaker information & bios are included on the Program Overview page.

Would this program be appropriate for my association’s Board/Leadership?
Absolutely! Your leadership may know a lot about the industry your association serves, but not so much about the inner workings of an association. This program provides insight into associations as a whole and may help them better understand your specific policies and procedures for better governance and smoother transitions.

How long do I have to complete the QAS program?
You have 6 months from the date of purchase to the complete the program.

How do I use this for CAE/continuing education credit?
QAS 2.0 is approved for 13 hours of CAE credit!
Your QAS 2.0 Certificate of Completion can be submitted for CAE and continuing education proof for any other reporting. Please note that a maximum of 50 credits from self-study courses can be applied toward CAE applications and 20 credits for renewals.

What if I participated in the original QAS program?
If you previously reported CAE credit for the original QAS, the number of hours you can now report is 10.75. There are 3 components we included from the QAS Program, and those cannot be resubmitted for credit.
We are waiting on final approval from the CAE Commission on this.

What is a passing score?
You must receive an 80% on each module in order to pass the certificate program.

Will I receive a certificate upon passing the QAS program?
Yes. At the conclusion of the program, after passing each module test with an 80% or better score, you will be able to automatically print off a passing certificate. QAS 2.0 will also include a digital badge to share on your profiles!

Is any future training/renewal required?
No – QAS 2.0 is a certificate program and does not expire. It is not a certification, but it can help you on your certification journey towards a Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation, or any other continuing education where hours are required.

How much does the program cost?
The QAS 2.0 program is $295 for members of FSAE and participating SAEs and $395 for non-members.

How do you qualify for the member rate?
If you’re a member of FSAE, you automatically get the member rate. If you’re a member of a participating SAE, you receive member pricing by using the coupon code from your SAE that designates you as a member. Please contact your SAE directly for the coupon code.

FSAE developed the QAS program, do you have to join FSAE to get the member rate?
No, the program is available to members of partner SAEs as well as non-members. If you aren’t a member of FSAE, you will need to create a new account to purchase the program. Use your SAE code for the member rate.

How do I know if my SAE is participating?
All participating State SAE logos are included in the main QAS 2.0 graphic and home page. If you’re unsure, please contact your SAE.
*ASAE is not a partner SAE

Are group discounts available?
Yes! Contact the FSAE office to Buy Three Get 1 Free!
We’re happy to work with you for bulk-buys as well.

Who do I contact if I have any questions?
Please email Pamela Cabrera or Adrian Honderick. You can also call or text FSAE at 850-222-7994. The FSAE office is open from 9 AM -5 PM EST.

Who do I contact if I have any questions?
Please email Pamela Cabrera or Adrian Honderick. You can also call or text FSAE at 850-222-7994. The FSAE office is open from 9 AM -5 PM EST.