Graduate Certificate in Nursing Home Administration
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Acquire the skills to be an effective and compassionate leader in Long Term Care.
Earn your Graduate Certificate in Nursing Home Administration from the University of Wisconsin—100% online.
A strong leadership team has a significant impact on the quality of care provided to patients. Acquire the skills and knowledge to meet the growing demand for senior living services across the Long Term Care (LTC) continuum, including memory care, adult day care centers, home healthcare, continuing care retirement communities, assisted living and skilled nursing facilities, and hospice care.
In the certificate, you’ll complete courses that align with the National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB) CORE Domains of Practice:
- Long Term Care services that ensure quality of care, safety, and well-being of residents, and support their psychological, physical, medical, and social needs.
- Facility operations including financial and risk management, and human resources.
- Regulatory compliance with laws governing the operation of licensed nursing homes.
- Developing and maintaining a high-quality, supportive, and patient-centered environment.
- Leadership and organizational strategies that ensure effective administration.
Courses are entirely online—asynchronous, with zero on-campus, virtual, or in-person meeting requirements—an ideal format for busy professionals. Watch lectures, participate in online forums with your classmates, and—although assignments have deadlines—do homework whenever it’s convenient for you. Learn more about online learning with UW.
Career Outlook
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of medical and health services managers, which includes administrators within organizations that provide Long Term Care services, is projected to grow 29 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for other management occupations.
Key drivers behind the growth in demand for senior living and health care services include:
- Increasing life expectancies.
- Increasing prevalence of chronic health issues, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, dementia (including Alzheimer’s disease), kidney disease, osteoporosis, hearing and vision loss, and others. Older adults are also more likely to have multiple conditions.
- Desire to age in place creating a need for home health care services.
People 65+ represented 17.3 percent of the population in the year 2022. That percentage is expected to grow to 22 percent by 2040. —2023 Profile of Older Americans, Administration for Community Living (ACL)
As a result, employment in services for the elderly, especially in home and community-based care industries, is projected to grow by 26.5 percent from 2023 to 2033, far above the projected growth of 4.0 percent for the nation overall.
RELATED: Healthcare Administration Salaries
Who Should Apply?
Students enroll in our certificate programs for a variety of reasons, including to learn new skills that help them advance in their current field, gain a competitive edge in the job market, or change careers.
The Nursing Home Administration Graduate Certificate is an ideal way for those seeking a career within the Long Term Care (LTC) continuum, or those working within LTC seeking career advancement, to expand their skills and knowledge in a flexible, online format. A bachelor’s degree and prerequisite courses in medical terminology, oral communication/public speaking, and statistics are required for admission. Learn more about admission requirements and applying to the program.
Does the program prepare me for licensure?
The Nursing Home Administration Graduate Certificate fulfills the pre-credential educational requirement (as a “program of study” or “specialized courses”) for those seeking Nursing Home Administrator licensure in Wisconsin.
There are additional steps required for licensure in Wisconsin, including fulfilling work experience requirements and passing scores on examinations. The certificate program does not fulfill the work experience requirements or take the place of any credentialing or licensing examinations. You are responsible for understanding all the steps necessary to become a licensed Nursing Home Administrator in Wisconsin.
If you are seeking licensure outside of Wisconsin, you should contact your state licensing board for their specific requirements prior to enrolling. We do not guarantee that this program meets the requirements of other states.
Universities of Wisconsin Collaboration
The Nursing Home Administration Graduate Certificate is a partnership of UW-La Crosse, UW-Parkside*, UW-Platteville, UW-Stevens Point*, and UW-Stout.
Accreditation
Accreditation is your assurance that you will graduate with skills that are relevant to your field and valued by employers. The Nursing Home Administration Graduate Certificate is approved by the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents and is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
*The certificate is pending HLC accreditation at UW-Parkside and UW-Stevens Point and not currently accepting applications for either campus. We expect UW-Stevens Point/NHA certificate applications will be open for Spring 2026, and UW-Parkside/NHA certificate applications will be open for Fall 2026.
To be eligible for the Nursing Home Administration Graduate Certificate, students must meet the following requirements:
- bachelor’s degree, in any discipline, from an accredited university (min. 3.0 GPA), and
- prerequisite coursework:
- medical terminology,
- oral communication/public speaking, and
- statistics (undergraduate level).
Students with a GPA below 3.0 may be considered for provisional admission. If this applies to you, we encourage you to contact an enrollment advisor for more information.
Program academic directors have the option to waive one or more of the above prerequisites based on relevant work experience.
You may also need to submit the following application materials:
- official college transcripts,
- your resume (optional by campus).
International Guidelines
This program welcomes online students from around the world. Online students do not qualify for an F-1 Student Visa to travel to the US, but instead can participate in our online courses remotely. If your native language is not English and/or you attended school outside of the US, you will likely need to provide proof of English language proficiency and an official translation or evaluation of academic transcripts. Requirements will vary based on a student’s academic history and home campus policies. For guidance about these requirements and how they apply to your specific situation, contact your home campus admissions office.
If you would like to apply as an international student to a Universities of Wisconsin on-campus program, please refer to these resources through Go Wisconsin.
Application Deadline
Your online application and all required materials must be submitted to your preferred home campus generally 2-4 weeks prior to the date classes start (this varies by campus) to be considered for admission.
Are there specific enrollment/start times?
You may start the Nursing Home Administration Graduate Certificate at the beginning of any semester. Fall semester begins in early September, spring semester in late January, and summer semester in early June.
How to Apply
While you are free to apply on your own, many prospective students find it helpful to speak with an enrollment adviser first.
Step 1. Select a home campus from our list of program partners: UW-La Crosse, UW-Parkside*, UW-Platteville, UW-Stevens Point*, and UW-Stout. Learn more about our campus partners and choosing a home campus.
*The certificate is pending HLC accreditation at UW-Parkside and UW-Stevens Point and not currently accepting applications for either campus. We expect UW-Stevens Point/NHA certificate applications will be open for Spring 2026, and UW-Parkside/NHA certificate applications will be open for Fall 2026.
Step 2. Apply to your preferred home campus using the Universities of Wisconsin Online Admission Application. If you are applying to UW-Stout, you will use the UW-Stout Online Application.
Please review the application instructions for your preferred home campus below.
Apply as a “Graduate Applicant.”
- When asked “Are you applying as a degree-seeking student?” select “Yes”, and that you would like to earn a “Graduate Degree”.
- Select “UW-La Crosse” as the campus.
- Choose “Healthcare Administration-Collaborative” and then click on “Nursing Home Administration Certificate-Collaborative” for program.
$56 application fee*
*We’re waiving the application fee for Spring, Summer, and Fall 2026 semesters. To redeem, use coupon code APPLY26 on the UW Online Application payment page.
Not eligible for financial aid.
Apply as a “Graduate Non-Degree Applicant.”
- When asked “Are you applying as a degree-seeking student?” select “No”, and that you plan to take “Graduate” classes.
- Select “UW-Parkside” as the campus.
- Choose “Nursing Home Administration Certificate” for program.
No application fee. Skip the application fee section (not required for the certificate).
Not eligible for financial aid.
Apply as a “Graduate Non-Degree Applicant.”
- When asked “Are you applying as a degree-seeking student?” select “No”, and that you plan to take “Graduate” classes.
- Select “UW-Platteville” as the campus.
- Choose “Online Graduate Special” for program.
- State that you are interested in the Graduate Certificate in Nursing Home Administration in the essay portion of the application.
No application fee. Skip the application fee section (not required for the certificate).
Not eligible for financial aid.
Apply as a “Graduate Non-Degree Applicant.”
- When asked “Are you applying as a degree-seeking student?” select “No”, and that you plan to take “Graduate” classes.
- Select “UW-Stevens Point” as the campus.
- Choose “Grad Non-Degree Seeking” for program.
- State that you are interested in the Graduate Certificate in Nursing Home Administration in the essay portion of the application.
No application fee. Skip the application fee section (not required for the certificate).
Not eligible for financial aid.
- If you are applying to UW-Stout, you will use the UW-Stout Online Application.
- No application fee.
- Not eligible for financial aid.
Step 3. Send your resume (if required) and arrange to have your official college transcripts (from each institution you attended) sent to the graduate student admissions office of the home campus to which you applied. Please request electronic transcripts, if this service is offered by your previous school(s), to be sent directly to the admissions email of your chosen home campus. Electronic transcripts are usually delivered more quickly than physical copies sent by mail.
4 Courses. 12 Credits. 100% Online.
Courses in the Nursing Home Administration Graduate Certificate develop skills and knowledge by covering topics aligned with the National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB) CORE Domains of Practice. As a graduate, you’ll be prepared to meet the changing demands of today’s seniors and contemporary senior living service models.
How long will it take to earn my certificate?
The length of time it takes to complete your certificate depends on the number of courses you take during a semester and whether you attend all three semesters (fall, spring, and summer). Course availability may also vary each semester. You’ll have flexibility to complete your certificate in the time frame that fits your life. Many students study part-time, while maintaining their full-time job and personal activities.
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
This course provides detailed exploration of essential services, supports and an introduction to operational aspects within Long Term Care facilities. Students will learn about the multifaceted nature of providing comprehensive care and enhancing quality of care for residents with a wide range of medical diagnosis and care needs. Differences and similarities of palliative and hospice care will be addressed. Special consideration will also be given to ancillary care including addressing dental, vision and podiatry care needs. Diagnostic, trauma care, community services and resources will be explored for addressing unique care needs. HCA 703 course syllabus | 3 Credits |
This course prepares future administrators and managers to navigate the complexities of healthcare administration, uphold quality standards, and contribute to the enhancement of resident-centered care in Long Term Care settings. A comprehensive exploration of the operational strategies and management principles essential for Long Term Care facilities will be conducted. Topics include financial management, human resource management, risk management/compliance and developing a high-quality environment for residents. HCA 704 course syllabus | 3 Credits |
This course explores concepts associated with quality care, safety regulations and protocols. Students will develop and implement programs and practices advancing a high quality, safe living or service environment. Selected topics include certification and license, governmental programs, federal codes for safe environments and development of a person-centered environment for senior and other service populations. HCA 706 course syllabus | 3 Credits |
This course focuses participants on exploration and application of topics critical to the success of an administrative leader in senior care and services. Special emphasis on critical/crucial conversations, change management, organizational behavior, marketing, public relations and strategic planning will be explored and applied across the care spectrum. Selected topics focus application of leadership and managerial skills required in today’s healthcare and aging services environment. HCA 707 course syllabus | 3 Credits |
Course availability for the Nursing Home Administration Graduate Certificate varies each semester, and is subject to change due to fluctuating enrollment. If you are a current student, please consult with your campus adviser prior to registration.
Spring 2026
Request Permission NumberCourse Preview Week: January 20 - January 26, 2026
Semester Dates: January 27 - May 08, 2026
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
This course provides detailed exploration of essential services, supports and an introduction to operational aspects within Long Term Care facilities. Students will learn about the multifaceted nature of providing comprehensive care and enhancing quality of care for residents with a wide range of medical diagnosis and care needs. Differences and similarities of palliative and hospice care will be addressed. Special consideration will also be given to ancillary care including addressing dental, vision and podiatry care needs. Diagnostic, trauma care, community services and resources will be explored for addressing unique care needs. HCA 703 course syllabus | 3 Credits |
Summer 2026
Registration Opens: March 09, 2026
Course Preview Week: May 19 - May 25, 2026
Semester Dates: May 26 - August 07, 2026
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
This course explores concepts associated with quality care, safety regulations and protocols. Students will develop and implement programs and practices advancing a high quality, safe living or service environment. Selected topics include certification and license, governmental programs, federal codes for safe environments and development of a person-centered environment for senior and other service populations. HCA 706 course syllabus | 3 Credits |
Fall 2026
Registration Opens: April 13, 2026
Course Preview Week: September 01 - September 07, 2026
Semester Dates: September 08 - December 18, 2026
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
This course prepares future administrators and managers to navigate the complexities of healthcare administration, uphold quality standards, and contribute to the enhancement of resident-centered care in Long Term Care settings. A comprehensive exploration of the operational strategies and management principles essential for Long Term Care facilities will be conducted. Topics include financial management, human resource management, risk management/compliance and developing a high-quality environment for residents. HCA 704 course syllabus | 3 Credits |
Spring 2027
Registration Opens: November 09, 2026
Course Preview Week: January 19 - January 25, 2027
Semester Dates: January 26 - May 07, 2027
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
This course focuses participants on exploration and application of topics critical to the success of an administrative leader in senior care and services. Special emphasis on critical/crucial conversations, change management, organizational behavior, marketing, public relations and strategic planning will be explored and applied across the care spectrum. Selected topics focus application of leadership and managerial skills required in today’s healthcare and aging services environment. HCA 707 course syllabus | 3 Credits |
Students completing the Nursing Home Administration Graduate Certificate will be able to:
- Evaluate the services and support of nursing home facilities through the oversight of psychological, physical, medical, and social needs of residents.
- Illustrate the ideal operations of nursing home facilities through financial management, risk management, human resources and the protection of the interests, safety, and well-being of residents of nursing homes.
- Recognize the application and oversight of environmental quality in a nursing home setting inclusive of regulatory compliance and the application of laws governing the operation of licensed nursing homes.
- Develop leadership and strategy through organizational management and practice elements of proper and effective administration of licensed nursing homes.
Tuition is $725 per credit. There are no additional course or program fees, with the exception of textbooks which are purchased separately and are not included in tuition.
- You’ll pay the same tuition whether you live in Wisconsin or out of state.
- You will not pay technology fees. If software or special technology is required in a course, it will be provided to you and is included in tuition.
- You will not pay segregated fees (fees for student services, activities, programs, and facilities).
If you are seeking licensure: license application, credentialing, and exam fees are paid separately to the respective credentialing agency and/or examining board(s).
- $8,700 total tuition for 12-credit graduate certificate.
Financial Aid
Financial aid options may be limited for students enrolling in certificate programs. Financial aid is awarded by your home campus. To learn more, contact an enrollment adviser or your home campus financial aid office:
You can also visit our financial aid page to learn more about FAFSA and other sources of financial aid.