Emphasis in Adult Development and Aging

The U.S. population is aging, and those with skills and expertise delivering assistance to older adults are in great demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook, employment in the social and human services sector is expected to increase much faster than average. This emphasis is designed to prepare professionals for careers in aging, including careers related to administration, housing, wellness, community service, public policy and/or fields requiring further graduate study, such as counseling or research. 

Areas of Study and Credentials

As a graduate of the adult development and aging emphasis, you are eligible to apply for the Illinois Nursing Home Administrator license from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, which is required to be employed as a nursing home administrator. You need a bachelor’s degree to be eligible to take the exam. Our Leadership in Aging Services Certificate is designed to prepare you for the licensing examination for nursing home administration.

Leadership Studies

If you’re looking to pursue management or leadership positions within aging services in both clinical and nonclinical roles, this certificate is for you. Through your coursework, you’ll focus on specific issues in the aging services industry as well as leadership roles and responsibilities. Students wishing to sit for the Illinois Nursing Home Administrator licensure exam should follow a leadership path through these courses in consultation with their advisor.

Adult Development and Aging Internship

One of the unique aspects of the adult development and aging emphasis is the requirement of acquiring volunteer hours and completing an internship at a community agency or clinic that serves older adults and families. Internship work helps students to become involved with aging populations and agency functions. Internship can provide meaningful experiences for career exploration and locating a potential work site.

Other Opportunities

Students in adult development and aging have many options to connect and learn across campus and within their home communities. The college is home to a variety of student groups and activities, including those focused on philanthropy as well as on adult development and aging. We encourage you to become involved early in your college career to volunteer and work with older adults and families. In addition, you will have opportunities to pursue further study in family social services each year through the University Honors Program, Office of Student Engagement and Experiential Learning (OSEEL) and NIU minors and certificates.