How it Works - Credentialing Process
The National Association for Professional Gerontologists awards credentials to those
who demonstrate that they possess a core body of Gerontological knowledge. NAPG
defines core Gerontological knowledge as including the following: a broad background
in the social, psychological and physical/biological aspects of aging, including
theoretical concepts; and, knowledge of practice concepts in working with older
adults, including ethical issues.
NAPG offers two ways to obtain a NAPG credential and regular membership. Memberships
are also available for students currently enrolled in Gerontology and related degree
programs at accredited colleges or universities.
Regular Memberships
Demonstrating academic preparation
(submission and approval of academic transcripts)
GRADUATE LEVEL/Gerontologist
Professionals and academics/educators in the field of Gerontology, with an MA/MS
degree in Gerontology or Doctorate in Gerontology, or related field with an emphasis
in aging, from an accredited institution.
BACCALAUREATE LEVEL/Gerontological Specialist
Professional or administrator providing services to seniors, with a BA/BS degree
in Gerontology from an accredited institution.
ASSOCIATE/CERTIFICATE LEVEL/Gerontological Coordinator
Service provider for seniors, with an AA Degree/Certificate in Gerontology or a
minimum of 24 units in Gerontology from an accredited institution.
PROFESSIONAL/SCHOLAR/Affiliate
NAPG recognizes and invites those who have dedicated their careers and contributed
to the field of aging to become professional/scholar affiliates. Please send curriculum
vitae or resume for consideration.
Successfully passing a credentialing examination at the requested level as listed
above.
Examinations are offered a minimum of 2 times per year in conjunction with national
gerontology conferences and professional meetings (e.g., AGHE, ASA, GSA) or at selected
sites as needed. Contact NAPG’s Executive Director Dr. Donna Schafer at
donna_schafer@sbcglobal.net to make arrangements.
Evaluation Process for Regular Membership:
Evaluating Transcripts
NAPG board members review and approve academic transcripts for credentialing. On
a rotation basis, one board member is designated as the arbitrator for transcripts,
and the remainder of the board is divided into evaluation teams. If team members
are consistent in their decisions, the applicant will be notified of the decision.
If team members do not agree, the arbitrator reviews transcripts and makes a final
decision. Applicants with transcripts not accepted will be notified as to the deficient
areas with suggestions for further coursework.
Exam Scoring Process
Using a process for inter-rater reliability, exams are reviewed by the NAPG board
of directors. On a rotation basis, one board member is designated as the arbitrator
for exams, and the remainder of the board is divided into evaluation teams. If team
members are consistent in their decisions, the applicant will be notified of the
decision. If exam scorers do not agree, the arbitrator reviews the exam and makes
a final decision. Applicants with exam scores not at a passing level will be notified
as to the deficient areas with suggestions for further learning and preparation
to retake the exam.
Appeal Process
After the transcript or exam review process, if the applicant chooses to appeal
the decision, the application will go to the arbitrator. The applicant at that point
may be asked to provide additional information or documentation. The decision of
the arbitrator is final.
Student Memberships
To become a Student Member of NAPG you must be currently enrolled in an academic
degree program in Gerontology or related discipline with an emphasis in Gerontology
at the Associate/Certificate level, the Baccalaureate level, or the Graduate (Master’s
or Ph.D.) level at an accredited college or university.
Evaluation Process for Student Membership
Students must provide evidence of enrollment. Normally academic transcripts are
used to provide evidence of enrollment. Board members review academic transcripts
and notify applicants.
Renewal of Membership:
Regular Members
NAPG credentials are renewed every two years by completion of 30 hours of professional
development activities, such as: CEUs offered by NAPG affiliates or State-approved
providers of continuing education. The majority of course content must be in the
field of aging. Up to 15 hours/units may be accepted from providers other than NAPG.
CEUs offered by NAPG. (Consult course listings on this website: CEU Listing) Documented
presentations and participation in national and regional professional gerontology
meetings at the level of double time for presentations and hour-for-hour for attendance.
Publication in peer-reviewed journals in the field of aging satisfies CEUs for one
two-year renewal period.
Student Members
If a student member has not completed his/her academic program after the initial
two-year period of student membership, the student member may apply for renewal
by submitting current transcripts along with the application fee.
