New Nursing Home Administration Graduate Certificate Aims to Fill Workforce Shortage in Long Term Care

New program prepares future leaders in Long Term Care to meet growing demand for senior living services 

Universities of Wisconsin Online Collaboratives, in partnership with five UWs, will offer an online Nursing Home Administration Graduate Certificate starting in January 2026. The 4-course, 12-credit program meets the pre-credential educational requirement for Nursing Home Administrator licensure in the state of Wisconsin. 

The universities participating in the certificate program are UW-La Crosse, UW-Parkside, UW-Platteville, UW-Stevens Point, and UW-Stout, with administrative support provided by UW Online Collaboratives. Students take courses taught by faculty from the partner campuses in a 100 percent online learning environment. 

“As someone who had worked for years as a nursing home administrator while completing my MS in Healthcare Administration through UW Online Collaboratives, I know firsthand how vital strong, informed leadership is in Long Term Care,” said Megan Arnold, NHA, MSHCA. “Stepping into the role of adjunct professor for the Nursing Home Administration Graduate Certificate has given me the opportunity to support others who are ready to take that next step in their careers.” 

The certificate’s curriculum consists of 4 courses aligned with the National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB) CORE Domains of Practice. Students will learn about Long Term Care services and supports, facility operations, developing quality patient-centered services, and leadership strategies. 

“This program is designed for those who are passionate about quality and want to become confident, capable leaders who can truly make a difference in Long Term Care,” Arnold said. “When paired with necessary experience, there are several career opportunities that you could explore from obtaining this certificate, such as nursing home administrator, assisted living director, quality assurance director, hospice care director, or just advancing your career within Long Term Care.”

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According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for medical and health services managers, including those in Long Term Care, is projected to grow nearly 29 percent from 2023 to 2033. This significantly outpaces the national average for all occupations. Longer life expectancies, rising chronic health conditions, and a strong preference among older adults to age in place have all contributed to the growth in demand for more Long Term Care professionals. 

The certificate features courses that cover the National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB) CORE Domains of Practice. The program meets the pre-credential educational requirement for Nursing Home Administrator licensure in Wisconsin as a “program of study” and specialized courses. Those seeking licensure outside of Wisconsin should contact their state licensing board for requirements prior to enrolling. 

“If you’re committed to elevating the quality of care and advancing your leadership skills, I encourage you to join us,” Arnold said. “You’ll be investing in both your future and the future of the communities you serve.”

The program joins a growing number of online degree and certificate programs for adult learners who require flexibility to further their education. To learn more about the online Nursing Home Administration Graduate Certificate, contact an enrollment adviser today at 1-608-800-6762 or learn@uwex.wisconsin.edu.

About Universities of Wisconsin Online Collaboratives 

Universities of Wisconsin Online Collaboratives partners with all 13 UW universities to offer online degrees and certificates, as well as continuing education and lifelong learning opportunities. Through UW Online Collaboratives, people of Wisconsin and beyond can access university resources and engage in online learning, wherever they live and work—fulfilling the promise of the “Wisconsin Idea.”