Bridge to ADC Course Starts Nov. 4, 2024
Activity Director Certification Course starts Nov. 25, 2024
The Activity Director Certification Course combines the APC and Bridge ADC programs in a continuous format without breaks.
*Two additional Bridge ADC Courses will start Jan. 6, 2025 & March 3rd, 2025
NCCAP Certification
For over 30 years, NCCAP certification has been accepted for meeting the highest standard of CMS F680 and is the only certification accepted by NAAP for meeting the Professional Standards of Practice to be an Activity Professional.
The standardized curriculum is infused with the person-centered principles of the Pioneer Network as well as the Alzheimer’s Association Dementia Care Practice Recommendations. It is reviewed and updated regularly by an independent Clinical and Curriculum Advisory Board of geriatric experts and long-term care practitioners.
Like all Allied Healthcare credentials, NCCAP certification is based on a formal course of study, the standardized curriculum, and an independent final exam. NCCAP certification ensures you are competent to deliver person-centered care and life-enriching activity programs to enhance physical, cognitive and psychosocial well-being.
Standardized Curriculum
Bridge for Activities Director Certification Course
This is a live virtual 36 hour course. Scheduled on Mondays, Tuesdays, & Thursdays 9am-12noon EASTERN TIME. 11/4/24-12/5/24. Schedule is subject to change with notice.
Prior to the start of the course, each student must select a Practicum Supervisor. The practicum can be completed at the student’s current facility.
The course includes homework, practicum assignments, and a final exam. To receive a certificate of completion and be eligible to apply for the National Exam through the National Certification Council for Activity Professionals, students are required to attend all sessions and complete the practicum. Upon passing the National Exam, students will be awarded Activity Director Certification.
Course fee is $500 and includes the digital course book, National Exam and 2 years certification. NCCAP offers a few payment plan options for an additional $30.00 administrative fee that will be added to your first payment.
Bridge for ADC Outline & Summary
Module One: Activity Manager Leader
This module introduces the essential skills and knowledge needed to be an effective activity manager and leader. Students will learn about the balance between the art and science of management, key characteristics of leadership, and how to build strong relationships between leaders and their teams. Additionally, it covers the core responsibilities of a manager, including planning, organizing, staffing, and evaluating, while also providing insights on how to maximize leadership power.
Module Two: Planning and Organizing
In this module, the learner will explore the importance of planning and organizing within management. They will learn how to assess programming and staffing needs, create effective schedules, and manage time efficiently. The course also covers different types of planning—strategic, operational, and project-based—and introduces the basics of budgeting for a department. A focus is placed on organizing tasks, delegating responsibilities, and ensuring team success.
Module Three: Staffing and Staff Development
This module focuses on building a strong team through effective staffing and staff development strategies. Students will learn how to assess staffing needs, interview candidates objectively, and identify skills and competencies through behavioral interview techniques. The module also covers legal hiring practices, training new staff, and incorporating volunteers into the department. By the end of this module, students will be prepared to manage staff costs and develop a cohesive, productive team.
Module Four: Staff Engagement
Staff engagement and motivation are the primary focus of this module. Students will learn how to apply Maslow’s theory of motivation to meet employee needs and drive engagement. This module also covers leadership techniques that inspire staff, how to coach employees for professional development, and how to address poor performance. Conflict resolution and the proper steps for applying progressive discipline are also discussed to ensure a motivated and well-functioning team.
Module Five: Program and Staff Evaluation
In the final module, students will learn how to evaluate both programs and staff performance effectively. This module introduces the principles of management control, auditing processes, and standards of practice based on regulations and professional organizations. Students will develop the skills to appraise staff performance objectively and solve problems using structured solutions and action plans to improve departmental success.
Standardized Curriculum
Activities Professional Certification Course
This is a live virtual 90 hour course. Scheduled on Mondays, Tuesdays, & Thursdays 9am-12noon EASTERN TIME. Schedule is subject to change with notice.
Each student will need to select a Practicum Supervisor prior to the start of the class and can complete this practicum at their facility.
This course contains homework assignments, projects, and a final exam. The Student must attend all sessions and complete the practicum to receive a certificate of completion to be used toward certification through the National Certification Council for Activity Professionals.
APC Course Outline and Summary
Module 1: Therapeutic Activity Concepts
This module introduces the fundamental aspects of the activity profession, including its definition, philosophy, and standards of practice. It covers the historical evolution of the field, person-centered care principles, and the roles and responsibilities of activity professionals across various health care settings.
Module 2: Introduction to Standards, Regulations and Survey Process
Learners will differentiate between standards, regulations, and policies, while understanding how to meet regulatory requirements related to activity programs and resident dignity. This module emphasizes the application of regulations, infection control, and effective interaction during surveys.
Module 3: Communication Strategies for the Activity Professional
This module focuses on mastering communication techniques essential for activity professionals, including active listening, non-verbal cues, and professional behavior. It also covers ethical standards for using technology and social media, as well as strategies for interviewing and maintaining confidentiality.
Module 4: Aging Through the Lifespan
Explore the impact of cultural and individual factors on aging, including physical, psychosocial, and spiritual aspects. This module addresses age-related changes, common disorders, and the role of activity professionals in supporting end-of-life care and adapting to aging-related needs.
Module 5: Cognitive and Behavioral Health
This module covers cognitive functions, and the characteristics of dementia and delirium. It includes techniques for effective communication with individuals experiencing cognitive impairments and the development of nonpharmacological interventions for enhancing their quality of life.
Module 6: Documentation Skills for the Activity Professional
Learners will acquire skills in documenting assessments, care plans, and interventions, both manually and electronically. This module emphasizes accurate and compliant record-keeping, correction of errors, and adherence to legal and facility policies.
Module 7: Person-Centered Engagement Programs
This module focuses on creating and leading person-centered group and individual activities based on comprehensive assessments. It covers designing engaging programs across various domains and tailoring approaches to meet diverse needs, including those of different genders and age groups.
Module 8: Professional Growth and Self-Care
The final module encourages self-assessment, managing stress and professional development, including completing the NCCAP certification application. It covers the responsibilities of departmental leadership and devising a personal growth plan to enhance professional skills and career advancement.
The cost of the Standardized APC Course is $650.00. This course fee includes the coursebook, exam and 2 years certification. NCCAP offers a few payment plan options for an additional $30.00 administrative fee that will be added to your first payment.
The Bridge for Activity Director Certification (ADC) will be offered upon completion of the APC Course. You will need to successfully complete the Bridge for ADC, in order to apply for your ADC (Activity Director Certification)