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Graduate Certificate in Dementia
The graduate certificate in dementia is designed to accommodate the practical needs of professional groups, including nurses, social workers, dieticians, interior designers, psychologists, occupational and speech therapists, health care administrators and music, art and recreational therapists. It is also intended for graduate students interested in innovative clinical practices, program planning and leadership in the administration of dementia services.
This multidisciplinary program provides a theoretical framework and practical grounding for working with families and persons with dementia in the home, community-based programs and 24-hour care settings. The program focuses on the social psychology of dementia; changes in the person and their communication; and ways they compensate throughout the progression of dementia. Students learn techniques to accommodate these changes. Major themes of the program are ongoing assessment of the person and his/her environment and the development of supportive interventions to increase the well being of the person with dementia.
Career Opportunities
There is a steady increase in the number and proportion of older people in American society as a result of improvements in the standard of living, the control and elimination of many diseases and better medical care. Americans now are leading longer and healthier lives than previous generations.
Within the next 30 years, the proportion of older Americans will grow to nearly 22%. Those over 85 are the fastest growing segment of the population in the U.S., resulting in an increased demand for expertise in programs and services for individuals with dementia.
EMU offers the only graduate level certificate program in the U.S. specializing in dementia. The graduate certificate in dementia provides an advantage to many professionals seeking an employment edge.
There are many multi-disciplinary opportunities for those with an education in dementia. Just a few settings where the certificate can be used are: dementia care units, long-term care facilities, Alzheimer's Associations, hospitals, home health care and respite programs.
For more information on careers in aging, visit Exploring Careers in Aging.
Program of Study
Required Courses (12–13 credits)
- GERT 518 Introduction to Alzheimer’s & Related Dementias (2)
- GERT 523 Designing Programs for People with Dementia (2)
- GERT 524 Families and Dementia (2)
- GERT 526 Responding to Behavioral Symptoms in Dementia (2)
- GERT 528 Advanced Issues in Dementia Care (2)
- GERT 689 Gerontology Practicum (120 hours) and Seminar (3)
Admission Requirements
- Have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, with a minimum 2.5 GPA or 3.0 in the last half of the undergraduate program.
- Meet the Graduate School admission requirements.
- Submit a one-page personal statement describing professional history and goals in dementia care.
- Have an interview with the certificate coordinator.
For More Information
Elizabeth Schuster
Gerontology Program
104 Roosevelt Hall
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
734.487.1361
eschuster@emich.edu
Read more information by downloading the fact sheet [PDF].