Gerontology for Professionals

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Gerontology for Professionals

Unique in the State

Pathway Certificate

12 Credits | 2 Semesters

Multiple Start Dates

Ashland*, New Richmond*, Rice Lake*, Superior*

Outreach Centers: Balsam Lake*, Hayward*, Ladysmith*

*Combination of Online and Your Choice instruction 

Career Cluster: Health Sciences

The Gerontology for Professionals pathway certificate is designed to meet the needs of individuals working in a variety of nonprofit and for-profit industries who are working with increasing numbers of older adults and caregivers in our communities. It is ideal for people entering the job market or choosing to enhance their current careers in service delivery or leadership roles within a variety of settings. 

Program Overview

You will be able to directly apply your acquired theory, knowledge and practical skills within a variety of professional settings. This pathway certificate is designed to enhance the education and experience of practitioners who work directly with older adults in healthcare and clinical settings, community-based programs, residential facilities, and private or for-profit business and industry. 

Program Outcomes

Gerontology for Professionals graduates will be able to:

  • Analyze the physical, social, psychological, and spiritual aspects of aging throughout the lifespan
  • Apply ethical and legal practice consistent with a gerontology professional
  • Identify the role of the gerontology professional in the connection of service delivery
  • Identify strategies to cultivate an age-friendly community
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Meet the emerging and rapidly growing career prospects for individuals understanding the needs of our aging population who work in a variety of nonprofit and for-profit industries. This short-term credential can be earned in a year or less and is offered in flexible 8-week course offerings.

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High-future demand.

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Flexible and innovative.

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Designed to fit a busy life. 


Academics

This pathways certificate nationally trains and prepares the up-and-coming and existing workforce for the expanding population of older adults.

Enhance your education and marketability with any of the following programs: Nursing – Associate Degree, Occupational Therapy Assistant, Medical Assistant, Paramedic Technician, EMT-Paramedic, Nursing Assistant, Human Services Associate, Human Resource Management, or other business programs.

Gerontology for Professionals pathways certificate classes are offered fully online, at all four campuses (Ashland, New Richmond, Rice Lake, Superior), and the three outreach centers (Balsam Lake, Hayward, Ladysmith).

Flexible Learning Options

Accelerated, 8-week evening courses offered through convenient virtual and in-person options. Maintain a work/life balance with part-time and full-time schedule options.

Cutting Edge & Interactive

Simulation equipment builds empathy through virtual aging experiences such as dementia, vision/hearing loss, and mobility impairments.

Stackable, Career-Enhancing Credentials

Start or enhance your career through embedded credentials in Dementia Care and Gerontology for Professionals. Single courses and pathways certificates are eligible for Start College Now.


Required Courses

Coursework addresses physical, social, psychological, legal, emotional, ethical and spiritual aspects of aging throughout the lifespan. Program specific subjects explore the wide spectrum of services available, and how to work with older adults and caregivers in your community.   

Explore the Required Courses

Featured Gerontology for Professionals Courses

10544110
|
UGRD
| 3 CR
Explore the wide spectrum of programs and services available to older adults that address a variety of physical, mental, emotional, social, financial, legal, spiritual, and recreational needs.Examine social policy as it relates to aging and available federal funding for the aging consumer including community resources, eligibility criteria, and how to access and coordinate services. Additional topics include supplementing social networking and enhancing mental health functioning.
10544100
|
UGRD
| 3 CR
Develop effective communication strategies and supportive interview techniques that enhance rapport and relationships with aging populations. Apply ethical principles, standards and boundaries that acknowledge self-determination.

Gerontology for Professionals is Part of a Career Pathway

As a Gerontology for Professionals student at Northwood Tech, you can earn credentials each step of the way!

You could take this first and get a credential.

Pathway Certificate
12 Credits / 2 semesters
Potential Careers
Hospitals, Hospice, Home Health Care and Assisted Living, Long Term Care, Nursing Homes and Group Homes, Adult Care, Senior Centers, Community, Non- Profit and Government Agencies, Counseling Centers, Business and Industry
Arrow pointing down

Pathway Certificate
12 Credits / 2 Semesters
Potential Careers
Hospitals, Hospice, Home Health Care and Assisted Living, Long Term Care, Nursing Homes and Group Homes, Adult Care, Senior Centers, Community, Non- Profit and Government Agencies, Counseling Centers, Business and Industry
Arrow pointing down

You can continue your education to earn an associate degree.

Associate Degree
61 Credits / 2 Years Full Time; Part Time Options Available
Potential Careers
Aging Services Provider, Advocacy Specialist, Geriatric Care Specialist, Dementia Care Specialist/Provider, Benefits Coordinator, Client Navigation Specialist, Activity/Recreation Coordinator, Housing/ Transportation Specialist, Program Planner
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Continue your education to earn a bachelor's degree. 


Admissions and Tuition

Northwood Tech has an easy admission process. Complete the application and register for classes today!

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Tuition and Fees

Northwood Tech breaks down the cost of education, so you'll have a good idea of how much your education will cost.

Learn More About Paying for College

Estimated Total Program Costs 2023-24*

Gerontology for Professionals

12 Credits | 2 Semesters

$1,893


*Tuition is an estimate and does not include any miscellaneous fees for various courses, tools, books, supplies or uniforms. Program book costs are in addition to tuition and fees and vary depending on course selection and where the books are purchased or rented. 


After the Northwood Tech Gerontology for Professionals Program

Upon completion of the program, you will earn a Gerontology for Professionals certificate. Continue your education at Northwood Tech in the Gerontology - Aging Services Professional associate degree.

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Transfer Center

Transfer your Northwood Tech credits to a four-year college to earn your bachelor's degree and beyond. 

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Career Outlooks

Northwood Tech's graduates experience success. Learn more about the types of careers you can get after graduation.

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Choose a campus to view contact information, or for general assistance, please contact us.

Rice Lake Admissions Contact

Nicole Messicci

Admissions Advisor

715.788.7144

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Ashland Admissions Contact

Jennifer Bednarik

Admissions Advisor

715.685.3039

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New Richmond Admissions Contact

Jodi Saliny

Admissions Advisor

715.752.8119

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Superior Admissions Contact

Anna Kalin

Admissions Advisor

715.319.7331

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Take the Next Step

Are you ready to experience success? Northwood Tech staff are standing by to support you in reaching your educational and career goals, so do it. Take the leap.