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Certificate in Faith Based Gerontology Elder Care

Academic unitHBIU Training InstituteTotal credits18Estimated duration1 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Credential abbreviation

Certificate in Faith Based Gerontology Elder Care

Total program length

18 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Six to nine months

General education

Not required

Foundational faith-based gerontology courses

12 credit hours

Professional application courses

3 credit hours

Final applied project

3 credit hours

The Certificate in Faith-Based Gerontology Elder Care provides an academic foundation for students interested in serving aging populations within community and organizational settings. The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from sociology, ethics, and gerontological studies to explore the physiological, psychological, and social dimensions of the aging process. Students gain a rigorous understanding of the complexities surrounding elder care through a lens of stewardship and human dignity, preparing them to respond effectively to the needs of older adults.

This certificate bridges academic inquiry with practical service, ensuring that graduates possess the theoretical knowledge and ethical framework necessary for supportive roles in various community-based settings. By integrating empirical research with a commitment to compassionate, faith-informed service, the curriculum fosters professional competence in navigating the systemic, relational, and administrative challenges inherent in modern elder care. Students engage in critical analysis to develop strategies that honor the wisdom and contributions of the aging community.

The certificate provides introductory academic and applied preparation for faith-based gerontology elder care-support, community-care, outreach, referral, and service-related roles. It does not constitute professional licensure or independent authorization to provide regulated clinical services.

Program Facts

Program facts

Total program length
18 semester credit hours
Normal completion time
Six to nine months
General education
Not required
Professional application courses
3 credit hours
Academic unit
HBIU Training Institute
Total credits
18
Duration
1 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze the physical, cognitive, and social changes associated with the aging process using evidence-based gerontological theories.
  • Evaluate ethical dilemmas in elder care through the application of principles rooted in human dignity and stewardship.
  • Design comprehensive support strategies that promote independence and holistic wellness for older adults in institutional or community settings.
  • Demonstrate servant leadership competencies by advocating for the rights and needs of the elderly in various social and organizational contexts.
  • Integrate Christian worldview perspectives into the planning and delivery of social services for aging individuals.
  • Communicate effective interpersonal strategies for engaging with older adults and their support networks.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • SOC101
  • Sociology of Aging
  • 3
  • None
  • PSY120
  • Psychology of Adulthood
  • 2
  • None
  • PHI205
  • Professional Ethics in Human Services
  • 2
  • None
  • COU210
  • Communication in Elder Care
  • 2
  • None
  • SOC101 — Sociology of Aging: This course explores the sociological aspects of aging, including social roles, family dynamics, and the impact of societal structures on the elderly. It emphasizes the importance of social support systems and community inclusion. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PSY120 — Psychology of Adulthood: This course examines the psychological development of individuals through late adulthood, covering cognitive changes and emotional well-being. It focuses on strategies for supporting mental health and life satisfaction. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PHI205 — Professional Ethics in Human Services: This course examines ethical frameworks, decision-making models, and professional codes of conduct relevant to human service delivery. Students analyze real-world case studies to navigate complex dilemmas in care environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • COU210 — Communication in Elder Care: This course teaches essential communication skills for interacting with aging populations, including active listening and empathetic dialogue. Students learn how to navigate difficult conversations while maintaining professional boundaries. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • MGT301
  • Stewardship in Nonprofit Leadership
  • 3
  • SOC101
  • EDU315
  • Health and Wellness Education
  • 2
  • SOC101
  • MIN350
  • Servant Leadership in Practice
  • 2
  • THE205
  • CAP400
  • Capstone: Gerontology Project
  • 2
  • All prior coursework
  • MGT301 — Stewardship in Nonprofit Leadership: This course introduces principles of stewardship and organizational management, focusing on the effective utilization of resources in faith-based settings. Students explore strategies for program sustainability and community engagement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • EDU315 — Health and Wellness Education: This course covers health literacy and wellness education initiatives tailored for the elderly, emphasizing preventative care and lifestyle choices. Students learn to develop educational materials that are accessible and empowering. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MIN350 — Servant Leadership in Practice: This course investigates the theoretical and practical application of servant leadership within the context of caring for vulnerable populations. It emphasizes the importance of leading with compassion and humility. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • CAP400 — Capstone: Gerontology Project: The capstone project requires the synthesis of all program learning through the development of an applied project in gerontology. Students integrate ethical reflection and professional skill sets to address a specific elder care need. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must hold a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent. Candidates should demonstrate an aptitude for service-oriented work and a commitment to the mission of the institution. Submission of an academic transcript, a personal statement detailing the applicant's intent for study, and a letter of recommendation from a professional or character reference is required for review by the admissions committee. Culminating Project The Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience, requiring students to synthesize their learning through the development of a comprehensive project that addresses a specific need in elder care. Students will identify a challenge within a chosen community or organization and design an evidence-based intervention or program proposal that reflects both professional standards and a faith-informed commitment to stewardship and human dignity. This project provides a platform for students to demonstrate their ability to apply theoretical concepts to real-world complexities in a manner that upholds institutional values. Students must produce a formal project report and a reflective essay, which are evaluated by a faculty panel for academic rigor and ethical integration. The project requires students to articulate how their proposed solutions reflect principles of servant leadership and spiritual formation, demonstrating that their academic journey has fostered both intellectual growth and character development. This requirement is weighted at 2 credit hours and serves as the primary instrument for assessing a student's readiness to engage in professional, faith-informed service.

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • Graduation from the Certificate in Faith-Based Gerontology Elder Care program requires the successful completion of 18 credit hours with a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0. All students must achieve a passing grade in the Capstone Project, demonstrating mastery of the program's learning outcomes through the integration of academic competence, ethical integrity, and a clear vision for faith-informed service.
  • Beyond academic requirements, students are expected to maintain standards of conduct that align with the institution’s mission, emphasizing personal integrity and ethical behavior. Candidates must demonstrate active engagement in their learning community, showing maturity and a readiness to serve others through the application of the principles of stewardship and Christian witness in their professional and social spheres. Fulfillment of these requirements confirms that the graduate is prepared to act with moral and intellectual excellence in their future endeavors.
  • Career Opportunities
  • Community Outreach Coordinator
  • Faith-Based Senior Ministry Assistant
  • Nonprofit Elder Care Advocate
  • Residential Care Facility Coordinator
  • Senior Wellness Program Assistant
  • Volunteer Service Administrator
  • Support Services Specialist
  • Important Notices
  • The program educates ethical professionals who demonstrate technical excellence, servant leadership, professional integrity, and a commitment to apply sound principles to advance faith-based organizations, strengthen communities, and contribute responsibly.
  • HBIU is a lawfully operating nonpublic faith-based postsecondary institution that maintains its status under section 1005.06(1)(f), Florida Statutes. The University annually affirms its compliance with the requirements applicable to faith-based institutions in Florida through Commission for Independent Education.
  • HBIU accreditation from QAHE (for quality assurance in pre-tertiary and higher education mechanisms). QAHE offers globally recognized accreditation and quality assurance for higher education, training providers, and professional institutions worldwide. Students should consider the nature and scope of this recognition in relation to their individual certification and professional goals.
  • Transfer credit is evaluated individually based on course content, credit hours, grades, institutional documentation, program requirements, and applicable university policies. Although HBIU provides academically structured programs, no institution can guarantee that another college, university, employer, licensing board, or credential-evaluation service will accept its credits or credentials. Students are encouraged to obtain advance written confirmation from the intended receiving organization.
  • The program develops academic knowledge and applied competencies for service in faith-based organizations, nonprofit institutions, community programs, and related professional environments. Some occupations associated with the subject area may be regulated by governmental or professional authorities. A degree from HBIU demonstrates completion of the University's academic requirements but does not, by itself, confer professional licensure or legal authority to perform regulated services.
  • Where a program is related to an external certification, eligibility is determined exclusively by the applicable certifying organization. Certification bodies may establish additional requirements involving education, examinations, experience, background screening, continuing education, or membership. HBIU does not guarantee certification eligibility or examination approval unless a formal written agreement expressly provides otherwise.
  • Career and occupational information is provided to help students make informed educational decisions. Employment outcomes depend on factors such as the graduate's experience, geographic location, professional qualifications, employer requirements, economic conditions, interviewing ability, and any applicable licensure or certification requirements. Completion of a program does not constitute a promise of employment, promotion, job placement, or a particular occupational title.
  • This program is delivered through online instruction. Students must have access to the technology, equipment, internet service, software, and learning resources identified in the University's technology requirements.
  • Internship or field-experience participation is subject to academic eligibility, site availability, supervisor approval, and the requirements of the participating organization. The University assists students with the placement process but cannot guarantee placement with a particular organization, supervisor, location, or schedule.
  • Students are responsible for reviewing the catalog, understanding program requirements, providing accurate information, meeting academic and financial obligations, and verifying whether the program supports their intended educational or professional goals.
  • Completion of a University program does not authorize a graduate to use a professional title that is protected or restricted by law. Graduates must use titles that accurately reflect their education, credentials, employment role, and current licensure or certification status.
  • Credential abbreviation | Certificate in Faith Based Gerontology Elder Care
  • Total program length | 18 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Six to nine months
  • General education | Not required
  • Foundational faith-based gerontology courses | 12 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 3 credit hours
  • Final applied project | 3 credit hours
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • SOC101 | Sociology of Aging | 3 | None
  • PSY120 | Psychology of Adulthood | 2 | None
  • PHI205 | Professional Ethics in Human Services | 2 | None
  • COU210 | Communication in Elder Care | 2 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • MGT301 | Stewardship in Nonprofit Leadership | 3 | SOC101
  • EDU315 | Health and Wellness Education | 2 | SOC101
  • MIN350 | Servant Leadership in Practice | 2 | THE205
  • CAP400 | Capstone: Gerontology Project | 2 | All prior coursework

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Community Outreach Coordinator
  • Faith-Based Senior Ministry Assistant
  • Nonprofit Elder Care Advocate
  • Residential Care Facility Coordinator
  • Senior Wellness Program Assistant
  • Volunteer Service Administrator
  • Support Services Specialist

Additional Official Information

Additional source information

Important Notices

  • The program educates ethical professionals who demonstrate technical excellence, servant leadership, professional integrity, and a commitment to apply sound principles to advance faith-based organizations, strengthen communities, and contribute responsibly.
  • HBIU is a lawfully operating nonpublic faith-based postsecondary institution that maintains its status under section 1005.06(1)(f), Florida Statutes. The University annually affirms its compliance with the requirements applicable to faith-based institutions in Florida through Commission for Independent Education.
  • HBIU accreditation from QAHE (for quality assurance in pre-tertiary and higher education mechanisms). QAHE offers globally recognized accreditation and quality assurance for higher education, training providers, and professional institutions worldwide. Students should consider the nature and scope of this recognition in relation to their individual certification and professional goals.
  • Transfer credit is evaluated individually based on course content, credit hours, grades, institutional documentation, program requirements, and applicable university policies. Although HBIU provides academically structured programs, no institution can guarantee that another college, university, employer, licensing board, or credential-evaluation service will accept its credits or credentials. Students are encouraged to obtain advance written confirmation from the intended receiving organization.
  • The program develops academic knowledge and applied competencies for service in faith-based organizations, nonprofit institutions, community programs, and related professional environments. Some occupations associated with the subject area may be regulated by governmental or professional authorities. A degree from HBIU demonstrates completion of the University's academic requirements but does not, by itself, confer professional licensure or legal authority to perform regulated services.
  • Where a program is related to an external certification, eligibility is determined exclusively by the applicable certifying organization. Certification bodies may establish additional requirements involving education, examinations, experience, background screening, continuing education, or membership. HBIU does not guarantee certification eligibility or examination approval unless a formal written agreement expressly provides otherwise.
  • Career and occupational information is provided to help students make informed educational decisions. Employment outcomes depend on factors such as the graduate's experience, geographic location, professional qualifications, employer requirements, economic conditions, interviewing ability, and any applicable licensure or certification requirements. Completion of a program does not constitute a promise of employment, promotion, job placement, or a particular occupational title.
  • This program is delivered through online instruction. Students must have access to the technology, equipment, internet service, software, and learning resources identified in the University's technology requirements.
  • Internship or field-experience participation is subject to academic eligibility, site availability, supervisor approval, and the requirements of the participating organization. The University assists students with the placement process but cannot guarantee placement with a particular organization, supervisor, location, or schedule.
  • Students are responsible for reviewing the catalog, understanding program requirements, providing accurate information, meeting academic and financial obligations, and verifying whether the program supports their intended educational or professional goals.
  • Completion of a University program does not authorize a graduate to use a professional title that is protected or restricted by law. Graduates must use titles that accurately reflect their education, credentials, employment role, and current licensure or certification status.
  • Credential abbreviation | Certificate in Faith Based Gerontology Elder Care
  • Total program length | 18 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Six to nine months