The Social Services Designee undergraduate certificate program equips students with comprehensive insights into the pivotal role of social services in the realm of long-term care. Throughout this program, participants will delve into topics such as aging, operations of social services, as well as the regulations and procedures specific to the long-term care industry. It's worth noting that this certificate can be pursued concurrently with any academic field at USI.
"Social service designees are entry-level social work assistants who work in senior living communities. Social service designees work under the supervision of licensed social workers and other staff who have more education and experience, and assist these professionals with their daily tasks. They often conduct admission interviews, inform residents and their families of their rights, advocate for residents with social services organizations, help residents to adjust to living in the facility and coordinate care services." - CareForTheAging.org
This certification is not a social work degree, nor does it make one eligible for social work licensure. For more information on becoming a licensed social worker, visit the USI Social Work program webpage. The state of Indiana requires each skilled nursing facility (SNF) to employ staff person to provide social services, as cited in the Indiana Administrative Code sections 410 IAC 16.2-3.1-34.
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.
On the form:
Non-degree Seeking Students (you are not enrolled at USI)
Apply to the University - USI.edu/apply
Once admitted:
There is a growing emphasis on integrating social services within healthcare settings to provide holistic care. This trend increases opportunities for social services designees to work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers and other healthcare facilities in various roles, including case managers, social work assistants and care coordinators. Besides long-term care facilities and healthcare institutions, social services designees can find employment in government agencies, non-profit organizations and private social service agencies.
Overall, the job outlook is favorable, with steady demand driven by demographic trends and the growing need for comprehensive social and healthcare services.
*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 Social Services Designee 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 Social Services Designee certification requirements of the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH). The state of Indiana requires each skilled nursing facility (SNF) to employ staff person to provide social services, as cited in the Indiana Administrative Code sections 410 IAC 16.2-3.1-34.
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.
