How do I choose a subject for my Fellow Project?
For a thesis, start with a general topic in healthcare management, and refine that topic to a workable area for investigation. Try to choose a topic that could help other executives, consultants, teachers, and researchers get a fresh perspective on a healthcare problem or issue.

Case reports must be based on real-life situations in which you were personally involved. They cannot be speculative, or based on a situation you simply observed. They do not, however, have to be on situations that had positive outcomes; some of the best case reports are on mistakes made and the lessons learned from them.

For the mentorship option, the junior executive or postgraduate fellow you work with need not be your direct subordinate, nor must the person be employed by the same organization. However, the individual must be an affiliate of ACHE and in the early career phase.

Before you begin any project, your thesis topic, case report topics, or mentorship plan must be approved by ACHE. For topic approval forms and other information, see the Fellow Project Guide (PDF).

I have an article I already wrote for a journal, which I think fits the description of the thesis/case report project. Can I submit this article for my Fellow project?
No, your Fellow project must be an original work created specifically for ACHE.

My colleague is planning to advance to Fellow, too. Can we develop a joint Fellow project?
No, you each must be the sole author of your individual projects.

Who reviews and approves the Fellow projects?
Projects are reviewed and approved by ACHE's Credentialing Committee, which consists of ACHE Fellows from various areas of healthcare management. ACHE will mail your project to 3 of the committee members, who will review it and return it to ACHE with comments. Your project must be approved by two out of the three Fellows to be accepted.

When must I submit my project if I want to participate in the Convocation Ceremony at the Congress on Healthcare Leadership next March?
The submission deadline for participation in Convocation is November 15.

I just earned my CHE credential (Diplomate). How long must I wait before beginning my Fellow project?
Although you must be a CHE in good standing for three years before you may advance to Fellow, you may begin your Fellow project immediately after advancing to CHE, if you wish.

For detailed descriptions of the types of Fellow projects and how to complete and format your project, download a copy of the Fellow Project Guide, which is available for download in PDF Format. You will need to have Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your computer to view this document. If you do not have Adobe Acrobat Reader, click here.

To obtain a copy of the Guide by mail, send a request, including your mailing address, to membership1@ache.org.