Written by Leah Flake, Gerontology Curriculum Coordinator
Discover the Activity Professionals Certificate program offered by the USI GWEP, designed for students interested in coordinating activities for older adults in nursing homes or assisted living facilities. This comprehensive certificate program is comprised of four classes and totals 10 credit hours, meeting all Indiana state requirements to become an Activity Director in a senior living center. Gain inspiration from the experience of Cloe Hinkle, one of our former students, as she shares how the skills acquired from the Activity Professionals Certificate program enriched her work at the Good Samaritan Home in Evansville, Indiana.
“I remember sitting with one of the activity employees [at The Good Samaritan Home] as she was making a calendar for the month. She was stumped on what to do, and I decided to speak up and tell her my ideas. She liked them! I was so excited to see my ideas being put into play and then, help perform these activities with the residents. Seeing their facial expressions, hearing their laughter and the comments they’d make, and the pure joy [the activities] would bring them, made me so happy.”
Cloe Hinkle, Financial Office Manager at Bethel Manor, USI B.S. Health Administration, Gerontology minor, Activity Professionals Certificate `23
Curriculum for Advisors :
As the Fall semester approaches, students will be returning to campus, along with some new faces eager to join us for the first time. Many of them will be seeking guidance with their degree paths. Encourage these students to explore the fantastic curriculum offered by the USI GWEP.
For students interested in adding a minor to their degree, they should check out the Interdisciplinary Gerontology Minor. This 20-credit hour program is a valuable addition for anyone interested in long-term care and aging.
Is your student looking for an edge to their degree with limited coursework? Consider the Activity Professionals Certificate, a 10-credit hour program that can be taken in conjunction with any field of study. Upon completion, students will be certified to work as an Activity Director in an Indiana nursing home or assisted living facility.
