The Gerontology Certificate is a series of four courses (12 credits) offered over an eight-month period. The program is open to any nurse, whether prepared as an ADN, BSN, MSN or with a terminal degree. It is tailored to the working nurse with a combination of in-class and online learning. This program will also prepare you for the ANCC Gerontological Nursing Certification (RN-BC) by providing the continuing education hours in gerontological nursing required for eligibility.

Why Obtain a Gerontology Certificate?

Nurses provide front-line health care for older adults in a variety of settings, including preventative care in primary care offices and the community, acute care in hospitals and long-term care in assisted living facilities and nursing homes. Nurses who have additional education in this area of health care will be better able to anticipate, prepare for and meet the needs of the increased number of older adults.

Advantages and career opportunities with a certificate include:

• Confidence in providing exceptional care to older adults in any setting
• Preparation for certification as a gerontological nurse
• Movement up the clinical ladder

Admission Requirements

The only admission requirement is a current RN license.

Certificate Requirements

Courses start in the beginning of March and go through the end of November. Courses are as follows:

• Nursing Care of Older Adults – 8 weeks: runs March-May
• Gerontological Management of Care – 5 weeks: runs June-July
• Gerontological Policy, Service and Social Issues – 5 weeks: runs July-August
• Death and Dying – 8 weeks: runs September-November

No required clinical time