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Launch into a new career and become a caring advocate for the aging
About the course
This introductory course serves as a starting point for those eager to pursue careers caregiving for, or working with, aging populations, whether you’re a healthcare professional, a caring family member, or someone interested in working in the field. The course explores the support systems, services, and policy considerations designed to meet the needs of older adults. The focus of the program includes topics such as the physical and mental changes associated with aging, common health issues affecting seniors and the older population, and effective communication strategies for senior engagement and inclusion.
This introductory online course serves as an ideal starting point for those eager to pursue careers in caregiving for our aging population and can stack into an MSU Denver credential or degree.
Convert course into college credit
Whether you’re looking to learn a new subject or pivot into a new career, noncredit courses can be stacked into credit toward an MSU Denver degree or credential. Learn more about converting Career Launchpad courses into credit on our FAQ page.
Future outlook of aging services
Need career inspiration? Use our occupational data widget to browse in-demand occupations, employment trends, and salary information, all within your area.
Why take this course?
Flexible schedule
The course can be completed in 4-8 weeks and is self-paced online.
Career advisement
Receive a personal advising session with an industry leader.
High job demand
Gain a competitive edge.
What students are saying about Career Launchpad
The majority of students who completed a post-course survey in spring 2025 report:
✓ Increased knowledge, skills, and understanding of the subject matter.
✓ We’re highly satisfied with the overall experience of the course.
✓ Agreed that the subject matter was organized and presented effectively.
Career pathways in Elder Care and Aging Services
Approximate return on investment for each academic pathway
Pathway 1: Enter the workforce quickly. Complete the Aging Services course and pursue jobs for caregivers.
- Median salary is $32,000 a year.
Pathway 2: Continue your academic journey and earn an Aging Services Leadership Certificate. Roles include being an assistant activity director or other positions in senior communities.
- Median salary is $42,000 a year.
Pathway 3: Pursue degree programs. Continue your academic journey and earn a degree in Aging Services Leadership, which allows you to increase your earning potential. You can find a job as an Activity Director or other similar roles with seniors.
- Median salary is $55,000 a year.
About the Aging Services course
In this course, students explore support systems, services and policy considerations designed to meet the needs of older adults. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to identify characteristics of older adults, assess demographic changes, describe shifts in population aging, recognize stereotypes and myths surrounding ageism, investigate common health disparities, evaluate programs and services, and explore workforce development and career options for caregivers.
The course is $450, with a $35 transaction fee per payment. There are no books to purchase.
- Registration opens in April
- Course begins – September 2, 2025
- Last day to register – September 9, 2025
- Course ends – November 2, 2025
Once you successfully complete the course about aging services, you can immediately enter the workforce with newly learned skills. You will receive a digital badge embedded with the competencies learned. You can include this badge on your resume, LinkedIn page, portfolio, or share it with an employer. Students will also receive a certificate of completion.
Students can also convert the course to three credits and continue to an MSU Denver certificate or degree. See FAQs for more information.
Students will:
- Develop a holistic understanding of the physiological, psychological, and social aspects of aging.
- Gain the ability to address physical and mental health challenges by developing patient-centered skills focused on the needs of older adults.
- Gain knowledge in demographic shifts and long-term elder care business acumen, a key aspect of elder care career development.
- Advocate for elder care policy changes and navigate the legal and regulatory landscape and related dealings regarding the advancement of senior care and systems in place that address mental health needs in older adults.
- Become skilled in using technology for better communication and improved care practices in aging services.
- Develop a deep understanding of how societal factors impact the aging process and influence the well-being of the aging population.
About your course instructor
Aging Services training instructor
Melinda Gisbert
Melinda Gisbert is an affiliate faculty member at Metropolitan State University of Denver. For over 7 years, Melinda’s goal has been to educate and empower students about the current and future challenges for healthcare leaders; and where we can work together to provide the highest quality of future care. In addition to MSU Denver, Melinda is a Client Success Manager at Senior Living SMART, a marketing agency dedicated to the senior living industry, where she partners with her clients nationwide to bolster sales and marketing efforts.
Melinda received her master’s degree in strategic leadership in Healthcare from the University of Denver in 2017, and her undergraduate degree in health care management from MSU Denver in 2012.
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Frequently asked questionsContact us
Email usPhone: 303-615-1234
Office Location:
Jordan Student Success Building
3rd Floor – #330
Auraria Campus
Mailing Address:
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Innovative and Lifelong Learning
P.O. Box 173362
Campus Box 6
Denver, CO 80217-3362