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

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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

Graphic showing pathways to either enter the workforce after taking the Aging Services course or to convert the course to credit and continue towards a degree at MSU Denver.

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

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.

Melinda Gisbert

Contact us

Email us

Phone: 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