The Activity Professionals Certificate program! In this program, students will gain the knowledge and understanding of the health care activity director, their purpose and function, including regulation and processes applicable to public and private sectors. Students will apply resident assessment and care plan development skills to evaluate short and long-term goals and to monitor participation.
In conjunction with any field of study at USI, a student can obtain this certification through successful completion of the 10 credits described below. The Activity Profession is a career path in and of itself. In addition, this career path is a launching point for professions such as health facility administrators (HFA) and other health care leadership roles. The Activity Professional Certificate is a nationally and state-recognized certification for Activity Professionals or Activity Directors.
As an Activity Director in long-term care, you will plan and oversee recreational events and programs for a community of older adults. You will create and lead activities like arts and crafts, music, dance, and sports to meet their social and emotional needs and promote active, healthy lifestyles.
Current USI Degree-Seeking Students (you have already declared a major at USI or are undecided)
Complete the Change of Academic Program Form, available in the Health Services Department (third floor of Health Professions Center) or from the Registrar.
Non-degree Seeking Students (you are not enrolled at USI)
Apply to the University - USI.edu/apply
Overall, the job outlook for activity professionals is favorable, with steady demand expected due to the aging population and the growing emphasis on holistic and recreational care in various health and community settings. As the population of older adults grows, there is an increased need for activity professionals in settings such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities and senior centers. This demographic shift drives demand for activities that enhance quality of life and promote physical and mental well-being.
*income information provided by O*NET Online. Occupation opportunities vary by region and experience.
The University of Southern Indiana is committed to making college accessible to those wishing to further their education by providing numerous scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to assist students in managing tuition expenses.
The Activity Professionals Certificate Program aligns with the University of Southern Indiana (USI) mission/strategic plan and USI’s federally funded Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program (GWEP) initiative by increasing the educational programs to prepare students for a career working with older adults. The certification increases knowledge and marketability while supporting the workforce needs in the state of Indiana.
This program is in full alignment with the Activity Professionals certification requirements of the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH). The state of Indiana requires each skilled nursing facility (SNF) and licensed residential care facility (RCF) or assisted living facility (ALF) to employ a certified Activity Professional, as cited in the Indiana Administrative Code sections 410 IAC 16.2-3.1-33 and 410 IAC 16.2-5-7.1.
This project is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of an award totaling $3,691,706 million with zero percentage financed with nongovernmental sources. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by HRSA, HHS or the U.S. Government.
