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Senior Care Specialist Certificate

NECC Home  /  Academics  /  Programs  /  Human Services  /  Senior Care Specialist Certificate

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Support and Empower Aging Communities

The Senior Care Specialist Certification Program will provide knowledge and skills needed to support the ever-growing aging population in our surrounding communities.

Our population is living longer than ever. A specialized workforce is needed to support the developmental social, behavioral, occupational, and mental health aspects of ageing. NECC offers this innovative one-year certificate that’s integrated with the National Community Support Skill Standards of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Serve Your Neighbors for a Vibrant Community

What You’ll Get from Our Senior Care Specialist Certification Program

Unlock the Secrets to Aging Well

After finishing this program, students will know all about the specific changes in cognitive abilities that come with aging, and they’ll learn practical strategies for supporting healthy aging. Plus, they’ll become skilled at identifying different resources and approaches to help the elderly thrive in their communities.

Do Cool Stuff, Not Just Homework

Forget about endless lectures. We’re talking interactive classes, workshops where you actually get to practice your skills in real-life scenarios, and projects that connect you with your community.

Program Costs

For the 2024-2025 academic year, non-health for-credit courses have a cost of $263/credit for in-state students.

Courses and Requirements

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Gear Up for a Great Career

We’re here to help you build a skill set that’s in high demand. Whether you see yourself as a compassionate caregiver, a dedicated senior support specialist, or anything in between, we’ve got you covered.

Your Schedule, Your Rules

Juggling life, work, and study? No sweat. With a mix of online and on-campus options, you can fit your study into your life, not the other way around.

This certificate program is stackable into NECC’s associate degree in human services.

Where This Journey Can Take You

Imagine yourself as a:

  • Senior Care Coordinator
  • Memory Care Specialist
  • Community Engagement Coordinator
  • Elderly Mental Health Advocate

Why Us? Here’s the Real Talk:

We Get It

Our courses are designed with you in mind—modern, relevant, and engaging.

Learn from the Pros

Our instructors aren’t just teachers; they’re experienced pros who live and breathe accountancy.

Beyond the Classroom

It’s not just about getting a degree. It’s about building a network, finding your tribe, and getting the tools you need to chase your dreams.

We’ve Got Your Back

From the day you start until you land your first gig, our team is here to support, guide, and cheer you on.

  • Career Services
  • NECC Connect

Get Started

Feeling pumped? We thought so! Get all the deets on applying, or hit us up to chat more about why this could be the best choice you’ll ever make.

Employment Outlook

According to Lightcast Q1 2023 Data Set the job market projections for opportunities from present to 2030 and beyond are very good with an average outlook of 20% growth over the next decade.

There is also some relevant data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics that also shows 22% growth in job opportunities related to this specialized population.

Career Paths

The broad-based skills of the program provide a foundation for a wide range of professional pursuits. Graduates who pursue advanced degrees will have opportunities to choose among many fields including:

  • Social work
  • Human resources
  • Organizational psychology
  • Mental health
  • Vocational rehabilitation
  • Rehabilitation
Licensing and Credentialing for Graduates

There are a variety of licenses and certifications possible to graduates of the Human Services Program.

  • Graduates from any of the NECC Human Service Certificate or Associate Degree programs are eligible to apply for credentialing through the National Organization of Human Services (NOHS) as Human Services Board Certified Practitioner.
  • Successful graduates of the Human Services Associate Degree program are eligible to pursue licensure within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as a Licensed Social Work Assistant (LSWA).

Program Pathway

A pathway is the most efficient sequence of courses semester-to-semester recommended for students to complete their degree. View the suggested pathway for the Senior Care Specialist Certificate.

Learning Outcomes

Student Learning Outcomes - Senior Care Specialist Certificate

Student Learning Outcomes – Senior Care Specialist Certificate

Upon completing this Certification students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate a working and practical knowledge of this age specific developmental stage.
  • Develop a working knowledge of biological aging up to and including cellular changes, organ function decline, and the role of genetics.

    • Understand how lifestyle factors and health habits can influence the aging process. Identify and compare different approaches and strategies of treatment.

  • Gain insights into cognitive changes that occur with age, from memory and problem-solving to the impact on mental health. Learn strategies to maintain cognitive function and promote healthy aging.
  • Understand the social dynamics and emotional challenges faced by older adults. Explore issues such as loneliness, retirement, caregiving, and the importance of maintaining social connections.
  • Discuss common health issues associated with aging, including chronic diseases, nutrition, and physical fitness. Discover preventive measures and lifestyle choices that can promote longevity and well-being.
  • Explore the concept of successful aging and how it differs across cultures.
  • Discover available resources, services, and support networks for older adults and their families. Learn how to navigate healthcare systems and access social services.
  • Demonstrate a working and practical knowledge of major treatment approaches currently employed in the field of Human Services as it relates to this population.
  • Identify and compare different approaches and strategies of resources as it relates to this population.
  • Explore end-of-life planning, palliative care, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding aging, including issues related to advance directives and decision-making.

Contact

Program Coordinator

Program Coordinator

Brian MacKenna-Rice

Office: C-304 M
Phone: 978-556-3331
bmackennarice@necc.mass.edu

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