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What are the qualifications to utilize this program? Do you have to have an associates degree or higher?
Hi Brenda,
Please see this link for the requirements to apply for national certification through NCCAP. You do not need an associates degree or higher, look specifically at Tracks 3 and 4 for ADC level.
http://www.nccap.org/certification/index.shtml
Theresa
do you have to have an activities license in order to do activities and to direct supporting staff to do activities.
Hi Shelly,
To direct an activities department in a long term care facility you have to meet the Federal tag #F249. There are several avenues of meeting this tag, so no, one does not necessarily need to be “licensed” Please see below:
(1) The facility must provide for an ongoing program of activities designed to meet, in accordance with the comprehensive assessment, the interests and the physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being of each resident.
(2) The activities program must be directed by a qualified professional who~~~
(i) Is a qualified therapeutic recreation specialist or an activity professional who~~~
(A) If licensed or registered, if applicable, by the State in which practicing; and
(B) Is eligible for certification as a therapeutic recreation specialist or as an activities professional by a recognized accrediting body on or after October 1, 1990; or
(ii) Has 2 years of experience in a social or recreational program within the last 5 years, one of which was full-time in a patient activities program in a health care setting; or
(iii) Is a qualified occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant; or
(iv) Has completed a training course approved by the State
Theresa:
1. If you are a home course of study with “Experiential Learning” how does someone out of your state participate in the “Experiential Learning” portion of MEPAP?
2. If I currently hold a BA in K-12 Art Education and am applying for ADPC
(track 4) do I apply for the certification first or take the MEPAPs first?
3. What is the best way to obtain the 6000 hrs. of activities experience?
Hi Connie,
To answer your questions:
1. All of my courses are structured to be very interactive. Even though it is an independent home study, the student is very engaged with residents, co-workers, and community resources. There are interviews, audits, program planning, interactions, and observations incorporated into the course curriculum so the student is not just researching/reading information and reporting on findings or answering questions. In order to complete the coursework, the student either has to be working in a long term care facility or, make arrangements with a facility to complete the coursework on a volunteer basis. Students need to have access to the resident’s medical records, be able to organize and facilitate programs, and interact with residents as well as the interdisciplinary team members.
2. To apply for ADPC, NCCAP requires 3 of the 5 components to be completed. In your case you would be following Track 1. You have a BA so in addition you would need any 2 of the following components:
~4000 hours of activity experience within the past 5 years
~30 CEU’s within the past 5 years
~MEPAP Part 1
~MEPAP Part 2 (You must complete MEPAP Part 1 before Part 2)
Once you have any combination of any 3 of the 5 required components, you are eligible to apply for ADPC. Please refer to the following links for more details: http://www.nccap.org/certification/levels/adc.shtml and http://www.nccap.org/certification/levels/adpc.shtml
3. NCCAP requires the experience be specifically in activities and with a population where at least 50% of the resident/clients are 55 years or older. There are various avenues to accumulate the activity experience Please see this link for specific details: http://www.nccap.org/certification/definitions/experience.shtml
I hope I’ve answered your questions.
I have the exact same background as you—and I worked in assisted living activites for one year. What hav you found out and by waht channels or websites? It’s all so emense. With whom are you taking courses thru? Thanks Joanne
Does practicum have to be done under a certified acitivities director?
Hi Michael,
I require the practicum supervisor to be licensed or certified their field with at least one year of experience in a supervisory position. The person does not have to be an Activity Director. Others may be appropriate but need prior approval.
Question 1) What is the cost of the courses you have available?
Question 2) I am located in Albany, New York. Would you be willing to come to the site here in Albany if I were to enroll in the courses you have available?
Michael, please see course fees on my website. Yes, I would be willing to come to your facility to consult with you.
Is it against the law for one who is not certified and only has 1 Mepap to hold the
position of Activity Director? Is it also
against the law for one with an Activity
Director Certification to sign off on all
that person’s work who is not certified,
qualified and is brand new at the job?
Thanks.
Linda,
To meet F-tag 249, the Activity Director must be qualified, not necessarily certified. MEPAP Part 1 would qualify an individual to hold the position of Activity Director. An Activity Director who meets F-tag 249 by being either qualified or certified would be appropriate to sign off on a person’s work who is not certified or qualified. I’m not sure of the circumstance you are referring to so I hope I’ve answered your question.
hi , im certified activities director in georgia , what do i do to transfer my certification to texas?
Hi Brenda,
If you are certified through NCCAP, then your certification is recognized in Texas, you don’t transfer it. If you completed a Georgia state approved activity training course, then you will have to take either the MEPAP Part 1 or Texas state approved activity training course to be qualified in Texas.
over the summer i had two weeks of training with miss irene taylor from nap..do i need to take some sort of certification exam to be state certified…miss taylor said that the two weeks will make me state qualified but is there anything else i need to do
Hi Brandi, I recommend that you investigate the state regulations for the state you took the training in. If you still have questions, then contact the state Department of Health to make sure you have completed an approved course and are qualified.
I have been an activities specialist for 3 years, I would still be working but I injured my Back and have Lift restrictiions. I am able to do every thing else now but lost my job. Can being in management help me to continue doing what has been the best job in the world. What does it cost and I would love benefit of being in class room setting. Are there materials you have to read you can mail to me. Thank you Jonni
Hi Jonni,
Yes, being an Activity Director will certainly keep you in the profession that you enjoy although, your lift restrictions may still apply to this job. That will depend entirely upon the facility you apply at. Activity Directors generally wear several hats and are doing a lot of programs that require lifting etc.
Please see “Course Fees” on this website for all cost information. Also, keep in mind that this is a home study format so you are not in the traditional class setting.
I work for a assisted living community and to move up in the company they require to be at least certified in activities can i take ur course or is it better to go threw the community college? How much is the course threw your website
Hi Crystal,
You can certainly take my course. All MEPAP instructors must teach the required curriculum from NCCAP therefore, you will be getting the same information from me in a home study format as you would through a community college. Please see ‘Course fees’ on my website for all pricing information.
Hi,
I just recently moved from Florida. I was an Activity Director in an ALF. I am now in Virginia, and I’m having a hard time finding an Activity director job here. I was a director for a 1 1/2 yrs. without a degree. Is there a way I can get certified as an Activtiy director here in Virginia without obtaining a 4 year degree? And do you have any suggestions on finding employment in this area?
Thanks
Hi,
You can follow track 4 which requires 12 college credits, one being an English course. Please see: http://www.nccap.org for all of the certification levels and track options available. I suggest contacting area facilities and putting in your application. You may also want to volunteer to get your foot in the door. Getting your certification will certainly make you more marketable.
i attended act.dir.class in 2001 in los angeles county ca and i had to move and lost my certificate how do i get a copy of my act.dir.cert.
You will have to contact the instructor you completed the course from or, possibly NCCAP will have this on file as well if the course you completed was the MEPAP course. If you completed a state course, then the instructor is the only person who would have a record of this. Good luck.
I have a bachelor’s degree in art and have been running a watercolor class for people experiencing dementia and alzheimer’s for the past 2 years. I am now interested in working as an activity director at a retirement home in santa fe, nm. Would I be able to get a job in this area if I just get qualified? Please give me info on cost for the qualifying course. Thanks
Hi Karly,
With your art talents and becoming qualified, you would certainly have a good chance of finding a job in the area of activity programming. The cost for the New Mexico state traning course is $350.00 plus the textbook which is approximately $40.00. Please email me directly at: dtntt@wctatel.net for a registration.
Where do I find a list of the college classes I can pick from to do my certification Track 4?
Hi April,
Please refer to http://www.nccap.org and click on Certification and then on Academic Education Standards to get a list of approved areas. There are a lot of areas to choose from but specific college classes are not listed. This should answer your question for Track 4.
I am looking for classes in Fresno Calif, or on line…..I will be retiring from nursing, and have worked as a consultant for SNF, please advise something I could do while I work fulltime this last year.
Hi Pat,
I teach the MEPAP 2nd Edition (Part 1 and Part 2) as a home study (not on-line) which would certainly allow you the flexibility to complete the work while you are still working. You do need a facility to complete a number of assignments as well as a practicum advisor. Hope this answers your question.
Theresa
Are there any grants or financial aid available to this certification?
Hi Jamie,
NCCAP has some scholarship money available, you would need to contact them directly to apply. Your facility may have scholarship money and in some cases there are local workforce development agencies that may have money available for this course.
I am a activities director at a long term care facilty in Manchester NH. I want to take the courses to get certified.But I am confused is there two parts to this certification and I work full-time 40 hours a week how is the classes set up online and what are the times for the classes. I guess what i am try to sayis I am confused about how all this works. Could someone explain this to me.
Kimberly
Hi Kimberly,
MEPAP 2nd Edition includes Part 1 and Part 2. Each course consists of 90 hours of coursework and 90 hours of practicum work. My courses are in a home study format, not on-line. You will receive all course materials through the postal service, complete the work at your own pace, and then mail everything back to me through the postal service. You do not log into a website or chat room to submit the homework. You may begin at any time, as soon as I receive your registration and payment, the course materials go out in the next day’s mail. I am available through email (usually the best) and phone correspondence with the student throughout the course as needed.
When the new National Activity Certification exam goes into effect January 1, 2012, will we also be required to complete all the MEPAP requirements before we can take the exam? I understand that it would help prepare for the exam, but will it be a requirement?
Hi Dusty,
I have emailed NCCAP regarding this question and am waiting for a reply. You may want to contact them directly as well. As soon as I hear back, I will post again.
Therea
Hi Dusty,
NCCAP will require that all of the components for certification (regardless of which track you follow) be completed before a student takes the national exam.
Theresa
Hello Theresa,
I have enjoyed reading over your well-informed web site. I followed your link from the NCCAP web site and I am very pleased with the results. You have an impressive background, credentials, and the development of the home study format seems to be very exactly what I need at this time in my life. Forty is right around the bend for me, I have a 5 and 7 year old, earned my AA in Gerontology/Social Work in 2003 (Community College of Rhode Island), and I earned my BA in Social Science in May 2010 (Ashford University). However, I have zero hours of activity experience within the last five years. I did an internship at an ALF in 2003 back in RI; I loved doing the activities with the Graying of America, and enjoyed bringing new programs to the Activities Department. My heart is with elderly, I have great compassion for them, and it brings me great joy to see them smile and to remember; if only for a brief moment. Any advice at this time would be out-standing and welcomed. Get my foot in the door through volunteering, during this time complete MEPAP 2nd Edition, Part 1 and Part 2; then obtain my certification on some level. I am a stay at home mom for about 10 more months and will need at least part-time employment there after. Again, Theresa, any advice at the crossroads would be greatly appreciated.
Lot’s of thanks from the Evergreen State!
~Mary Beth~
Hi Mary Beth,
If you have not yet done so, I recommend looking at the levels of certification. If you are working towards your ADC, then you will follow Track 1 with your Bachelors. You can work on several components at once. You will need to work at a long term care setting or at least be able to volunteer at one that will allow you to have access to resident health information in order to complete the coursework. If you are working in activities or, volunteering in activities as you complete the MEPAP courses, these hours will count towards your work experience requirement. You can also pick up the CEU requirements along the way as they come available to you.
You may want to consider getting your Provisional certification level before January 1, 2012 as NCCAP will be implementing a national exam after that date. Anyone certifed at any level will not have to take the exam. You could complete MEPAP Part 1 and Part 2 and along with your degree, be eligible to apply for ADPC, Activity Director Provisionally Certified. You can also check this out on the NCCAP website under Ceritifaction.
I hope this answers your questions, please do not hesitate to contact me if I can help you with anything else.
Theresa
Would taking the activity director’s certification course count toward college recertification credits for Educator Licensure?
Where would I find out this information?
How do I find out if their are any on-line courses offered at MSU-Billing for recertificaton credits for the Educator Licensure?
Hi Jeanette,
You would have to take the course through a college in order to get college credits. You can find a list of instructors on http://www.nccap.org under MEPAP Instructors. I don’t know what MSU-Billing is but you should be able to contact them directly and request information regarding on-line courses.
Theresa
I am a resident in South Carolina with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry. I am interested in making a career change to become an activities director. How do I go about certification and which courses would I need to sign up for.
Hi Kelly,
With your Bachelor’s degree, you would follow Track 1 for NCCAP certification as and ADC. You can investigate the required components at: http://www.nccap.org and click on “Certification.” You may register at any time for my MEPAP 2nd Edition course. A registration form is provided on this website for you to download.
Theresa
Theresa
What does Texas require for certification?
Hi Monica,
Here are the Texas regulations for activities:
Activity and Activities Director Requirements for the State of Texas
RULE §19.702 Activities
(a) The facility must provide for an ongoing program of activities designed to meet, in accordance with the comprehensive assessment, the interest and the physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being of each resident.
(b) The activities program must be directed by a qualified professional who:
(1) is a qualified therapeutic recreation specialist or an activities professional who is:
(A) licensed or registered, if applicable, by the state in which practicing; and
(B) eligible for certification as a therapeutic recreation specialist, therapeutic recreation assistant, or an activities professional by a recognized accrediting body, such as the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification, on October 1, 1990; or
(2) has two years of experience in a social or recreational program within the last five years, one of which was full-time in a patient activities program in a health care setting; or
(3) is a qualified occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant; or
(4) has completed an activity director training course approved by any state. The Texas Department of Human Services (DHS) does not review or approve any courses. DHS accepts training courses approved by a recognized credentialing body, such as the National Certification Council for Activity Professionals, the National Therapeutic Recreation Society, or the Consortium for Therapeutic Recreation/Activities Certification, Inc.
(c) Activity directors must complete eight hours of approved continuing education or equivalent continuing education units each year. Approval bodies include organizations or associations recognized as such by certified therapeutic recreation specialists or certified activity professionals or registered occupational therapists.
(d) The facility must ensure that activities assessment and care planning are completed and reviewed or updated as provided in §19.801 and §19.802 of this title (relating to Resident Assessment and Comprehensive Care Plans). If indicated by the Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) and/or the resident’s need, an in-depth activities assessment is required.
(e) Toys and recreational equipment for pediatric residents must be appropriate for the size, age, and developmental level of the residents.
I was interested in taking the mepap course but I dont know how to sign up and login. Could you please explain? I am computer literate. Thanks.
Maria
Hi Maria,
I can either email you a registration, send through snail mail, or fax. Please let me know how you prefer, thanks.
Theresa
I was employed for 16 almost 17 yrs. in a nursing home in Texas. I was a certified Activity Professionial. Two yrs. ago I turned in my resignation to travel. I realize now I miss my job. What do I have to do to be reinstated?
Hi Dinah,
If you are able to submit the required ceus before your expiration date, then you will be able to renew your certification. If your NCCAP certification has expired, you will have to start over.
Theresa
What happens if you dont finish the requirements to become activity director certified but you are currently taking courses, can you have an extension?
Hi Kary,
You would need to contact NCCAP directly for this information.
Theresa
Hello:
I am interested in becoming an activities director. Please tell me what I need in order to get a job working in a housing division that will host residents who are 55plus? I need the basic and then can continue to study after employment.
Thank You
Sherry
Hi Sherry,
By completing MEPAP 2nd Edition Part 1, you will be qualified to work as an Activity Director. You can then go back and complete the rest of the required components in order to be eligible to apply for national certification through NCCAP. Please see http://www.nccap.org to investigate the tracks for certification. Click on ‘Certification’ and the top of the tool bar. If you have any additional questions, please let me know.
Theresa
My wife just is just about to finish her ADC certification, there is a ADC at the facility where she currently works and she, the current director, does not want my wife to use ADC after her name. Is my wife entitled to use the professional designation she earned?
Thanks,
Jack
Hi Jack,
ADC (Activity Director Certified) is a credential just like CTRS (Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist), COTA (Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant), RN (Registered Nurse) etc. and not a job title. Anyone who has earned the ADC (or any level of certification through NCCAP) credential is entitled to use the professional designation.
Theresa
Hi,
My name is Christina (Tina) and I do not have all me CEUS for my Activity Director License. I only need 7.5 hours. I attended the NMHCA
last year in August that was held in Albquerque and cannot find the form which showed the forums I attended and that alone will cover my CEUS for the year. I am absolutely positive that I gave my paper work to my Supervisor Louise Bauler and now she is saying she can’t find them. Those CEUS are very important for me to keep my license for my Activity Director. Is there anything I can do to get a copy of the workshops I attended and that were punched in and out from The New Mexico Health Care Association? Your help would be grealy appreciated.
Thank You,
Christina
Hi Christina,
You will have to contact the NMHCA directly and request a copy of your paper work.
Theresa
Hi Teresa,
My name is Antoinette And I have read over a ton of your information. I
love everything about you and everything your doing. I am very much so interested in becoming an activity director. I do not know where to begin. I currently work everyday around seniors but that is as far as that goes.I am a bus driver so I drive them to our local community center daily. Teresa for a first timer like myself where do I begin?
Thx toni
Hi Toni,
In order to work as an Activity Director, you need to meet F-Tag 249. The following is F-tag #249:
(1) The facility must provide for an ongoing program of activities designed to meet, in accordance with the comprehensive assessment, the interests and the physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being of each resident.
(2) The activities program must be directed by a qualified professional who~~~
(i) Is a qualified therapeutic recreation specialist or an activity professional who~~~
(A) If licensed or registered, if applicable, by the State in which practicing; and
(B) Is eligible for certification as a therapeutic recreation specialist or as an activities professional by a recognized accrediting body on or after October 1, 1990; or
(ii) Has 2 years of experience in a social or recreational program within the last 5 years, one of which was full-time in a patient activities program in a health care setting; or
(iii) Is a qualified occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant; or
(iv) Has completed a training course approved by the State
Following is the link for NCCAP’s tracks to certification as an Activity Director (ADC): http://www.nccap.org/certification/levels/adc.shtml
I teach the required MEPAP 2nd Edition as a home study course, so by completing these 2 components (required for any of the 4 tracks detailed at the link above) would be a start. Not knowing your college background, if you do not have the minimum of 12 college credits (Track 4), then you could complete MEPAP Part 1 only, and become qualified, not certified on the Director level, to work as an Activity Director in Long Term Care. MEPAP Part 1 would meet the regulation (2)(iv) stated above in F-Tag 249.
I hope I’ve answered your questions, please feel free to email/call if you have additional questions.
Theresa
Hello,
ive worked at a nursing home in the activities department for the last 7 yrs and have decided to become certified. ive recently completed mepap1. at a recent activity director’s meeting i was informed that there is an exam offered through NAAPCC to get certified providing other qualifications they have set forth are met. is this true? thank you.
Renee
Hi Renee,
Please refer to http://www.thenaap.com or http://www.naapcc.net for details and additional information.
Theresa
I WAS OFFERED AN ACTIVITY DIRECTOR POSITION IN MUSKOGEE OKLAHOMA. THE ADMINERSTRATOR SAID THAT THEIR WAS A CLASS IN OKLAHOMA CITY THAT TOOK 3 DAYS TO COMPLETE. THAT IS GREAT EXCEPT THE FACT THE CLASS IS NOT TILL OCTOBER. MY QUESTION IS THIS– EXCACTLY WHAT DOES THIS COURSE TITLE ME WITH AND APROX. HOW LONG DOES IT LAST? IS THIS CERTIFICATION RECONIZED IN OKLAHOMA? I HAVE NO EXPERIENCE IN THIS AREA. I HAVE BEEN A NURSE AIDE FOR ABOUT FIVE YEARS. CAN YOU PLEASE HELP ME WITH ADVICE ON HOW TO PERSUE THIS?
Hi Tonya
MEPAP Part 1 is recognized in Oklahoma and will qualify you to work as an Activity Director. You will not be certified so your credentials will not be ADC (Activity Director Certified but, your title could be Activity Director. You could always go back and complete Part 2 along with the required ceu’s, work experience, and college credits if you want to get your ADC through NCCAP. Please see this link: http://www.nccap.org click on Certification and you will see all of the information and details for national certification.
The course is self paced so it’s up to you how quickly you complete the work. Remember it’s 180 hours total, 90 hours of coursework and 90 hour of practicum work so you will be getting a much more thorough and in-depth training. By doing about 15 hours of work/week on the course you could complete it in 3 months. This is just an example to give you an idea on how you would have to pace yourself if you have a goal in mind for completion.
I was certified a few years back how can I tell if my certification is still good and if not how can I recertify….
Hi Salena,
Your certification is valid for 2 years from the date on it. If you have let it expire, you will have to complete all of the required components again and reapply when you are eligible.
Hello Theresa, I have enjoyed reading over your well-informed web site. I followed your link from the NCCAP web site and I am very pleased with the results. You have an impressive background, credentials, and the development of the home study format seems to be very exactly what I need at this time in my life. Forty is right around the bend for me, I have a 5 and 7 year old, earned my AA in Gerontology/Social Work in 2003 (Community College of Rhode Island), and I earned my BA in Social Science in May 2010 (Ashford University). However, I have zero hours of activity experience within the last five years. I did an internship at an ALF in 2003 back in RI; I loved doing the activities with the Graying of America, and enjoyed bringing new programs to the Activities Department. My heart is with elderly, I have great compassion for them, and it brings me great joy to see them smile and to remember; if only for a brief moment. Any advice at this time would be out-standing and welcomed. Get my foot in the door through volunteering, during this time complete MEPAP 2nd Edition, Part 1 and Part 2; then obtain my certification on some level. I am a stay at home mom for about 10 more months and will need at least part-time employment there after. Again, Theresa, any advice at the crossroads would be greatly appreciated.Lot’s of thanks from the Evergreen State!~Mary Beth~
+1
Hi Mary Beth,
You are on the right track with your plan. You will be following Track one and can apply for Provisional certification if you choose when you have 3 of the 5 components completed. If you have not investigated the tracks for certification, please refer to: http://www.nccap.org click on “Certification” and then go from there. If you take MEPAP 2nd Edition from me, you will have to be able to work with a facility in order to complete the assignments. There is much interaction with residents, co-workers, program planning, documentation and care planning etc. to give you an idea. I have numerous students who complete the course without actually working at a facility.
I hope I’ve answered your questions, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have anything else.
Theresa
Do you have to work in nursing home.To be certfied?
Hi Nanci,
To be eligible to apply for national certification through NCCAP, you need a minimum of 4000 hours of activity experience working with individuals where at least 50% of the population is 55 years and older. This doesn’t necessarily need to be a nursing home but does need to be specifically working in activities with the above population criteria.
In order to complete assignments for my MEPAP 2nd Edition, you will need to have access to resident private information, be able to work with residents, audit documentation, care planning, program planning, working with community resources etc. Many students do not work at the facility, but rather become a volunteer as they complete the course. I hope this answers your question.
Theresa
how long is a texas activity directors licenses good for
Hi Salena,
As long as you keep your certification current by completing the required ceus (8 per year for Texas/30 every 2 years for ADC through NCCAP), it is good indefinitely. Please see this link for Texas regulations: http://www.sph.umn.edu/hpm/NHRegsPlus/qol/activities/activities_texas.htm
Theresa
How long does the course actually take? Is it less than a year?
Hi Simon,
It’s self paced so it’s up to you how quickly you want to complete. For example, if you want to complete the 180 hours in 4 months, then you would average about 12 hours a week.
Theresa
Do you know of people/places that conduct MEPAP training in the Dallas, Texas area? I know of one person yet she will not return my emails or phone calls. All I can find are online courses. Thanks.
Hi Kim,
You would have to go to http://www.nccap.org and click on MEPAP Course Instructors, then Texas to look at the instructors for your area. Hope this helps.
Theresa
Do activity programs have to start after 6:30pm to be considered an evening program? Our programs start at 6:00 and usually last @least an hour or so… If we wait until 6:30 we wouldn’t get many residents. Where could I find that answer?
Hi Chris,
Evening hours are considered 5 pm until a resident goes to bed. So this will vary from resident to resident. To answer your question; yes a 6 pm program would be considered an evening program.
after completeing the nccap mepap1 in the state of texas can you be an activity director in a long term care facility, can you do mds 3.0′s, section f, intial and admitt assements. Thanks, Wanda
Hi Wanda,
Yes you can. You will qualified but not certified until you complete all the required components to be eligible to apply for certification through NCCAP. Once you send in your paperwork, application for certification, and the fee, NCCAP reviews it and if all is in order you are awarded the certification.
Please Help
How do I registar for Iowa Home Study Activity Certiffication Course I need to find this out ASAP
Thank You Very Much
Leeann Nielsen
Hi Leeann,
I’ve emailed you the registration. As soon as I receive that back along with payment, the course materials will go out the next day priority mail. Thank you.
Theresa
how much does this course cost?
Hi Bernie,
MEPAP 2nd Edition Part 1 only: $500.00
Textbook: $55.00
Total: $555.00
MEPAP 2nd Edition Part 2 only: $500.00
Textbook: $65.00
Total: $565.00
MEPAP 2nd Edition Part 1 & 2: $850.00
Total including books: $960.00
You can download a registration form from this website.
I have been working as a activity director for the past 5 years at a facility with 184 beds. I supervise a staff of 5 activity assistance. I took a class that allows me to be a activity director 36 hour basic training for activity professionals however I can only use this in the state of TN. I attend conferences every year which I learn all new developments in our state. I really want to continue my education and be able to practice in other states and would love to earn my degree as a rec. therapist I know that experience counts somehow but the paths are all so confusing I would love to work as a consultant someday but want to be a licensed professional can you help me figure out what would be the best path for me. What is my next step?
Hi Debra,
The first step to determine which track you will follow for Activity Director Certification (ADC credentials) depends upon your college background. Visit http://www.nccap.org and click on Certification on the home page. This will take you to Levels of Certification. Click on Activity Director Certification and you will see the tracks. You can also investigate the Provisional certification track as well.
Depending upon your college background, you may be eligible to apply for Provisional Certification now. It sounds as if you have the work experience and ceu’s already. If you don’t have college credits, you could complete MEPAP Part 1 and then be eligible to apply for Provisional certification, as long as you have the amount of ceu’s and work experience required. You will then have 6 years to complete the other 2 components in order to apply for ADC level. Also, if you are certified on any level by 12/31/11, you will not have to take the national exam that is set to be implemented starting 01/01/12 for all initial applicants.
There isn’t any specific order in which to complete the required components to be eligible to apply for certification. You may begin my MEPAP course at any time.
I hope I’ve answered your questions, please feel free to call or email if you have any other questions.
Theresa
Is there any certification or license required to become an Activities Director (only in an ALF) in the state of Florida?
Hi Jodie,
Please see this link for FL Regulations:
http://www.sph.umn.edu/hpm/NHRegsPlus/NH%20Regs%20by%20Topic/Topic%20Quality%20of%20Life-Activities.html
ALF is not as strictly regulated as long term care. Hope this helps!
Theresa
I’m a certified activity director and I wanted to know what website to go on to get my registration number
Hi Barbara,
If you are certified through NCCAP, your number will be on the certificate that you received from them. I’m not sure what you are referring to as far as a “registration number” and I am unaware of any website to refer you to.
Theresa
Hello,
I actualy have a question. I have my 60 hour Activity Directors course in Illinois. Can this transfer down to Florida or do I need to be recertified down there? I have just moved here and had a job interview set up for the same company that I worked for in Iowa but she canceled the interview due to me not being certified in Forida. Is this right? Thank you for your help.
Hi Ann,
That is correct. Each state has different requirements therefore, the “state training courses” are only recognized for that specific state. NCCAP certification, which is the national certification, will be recognized and meet the regulation in all states.
Please see this link for regulations: http://www.sph.umn.edu/hpm/NHRegsPlus/ Nursing Home Regulations Plus page
Theresa
Hello. I also have a question. I have been working as an activity assistant for the past 4 years, I have been working in long term care for 10. I am a Certified Nursing Assistant. I want to become an Activity Director what exactly do I have to do. I live in Florida.( I would like to be a national accredited activity professional.) How expensive is it? I have completed some college but I do not have a degree.
Hi Ojo,
Please see: http://www.nccap.org/certification/levels/adc.shtml to look at the requirements for the various tracks for ADC level of certification. As you can see, Track 3 and 4 do not require a college degree.
See this link for fees: http://www.nccap.org/certification/fees/what.shtml
For fees on my courses, please see my website under MEPAP Registration.
I hope I’ve answered your questions, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have anything else. Have a great day and thank you.
Theresa
Theresa,
I have a BA in Education, have worked 3 years as an Activity Director in the state of NH, have many CE’s each year to keep up to date. Is there a provision where experience can qualify you to become certified without the MEPAP?
Hi Elisia,
To be certified through NCCAP, you will need to complete all of the required components in order to be eligible to apply for certification. You have 3 of the 5 and would still need to take MEPAP 2nd Edition, Part 1 and Part 2.
Theresa
Hello.
Currently I am a senior at college who will be graduating in May. After graduation I would like to become a certified Activity Director. I just have a few questions.
Do you need to take both MEPAP’s to get certification from NCCAP? What will this National Exam consist of and how will it be taken? Can I still take the home course even though I live in PA – is it for all states?
Hi Lindsey,
Yes, you will have to take the full MEPAP 2nd Edition (Part 1 and Part 2) along with your college degree, ceus, and required work experience.
The National exam consists of questions that will be covered in the MEPAP course curriculum. There will be T/F and multiple choice. You will be able to take it at your facility as long as you have a proctor. I’m not aware of any other specific details at this time.
Yes, my course is recognized in PA and all other states so you would be able to take it. Hope this answers your questions.
Theresa
Hi Theresa,
I’m currently certified through the National Recreation and Park Association as a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP). I work in a long term care facility in NYC and have over 18 years experience as a Recreation assistant and Coordinator.
I have recently been assigned unofficial duties as the director of the therapeutic recreation department due to our director’s retirement and they are looking to hire me as the full time director. i believe I have the qualifications based on my years of experience alone however, do you think the CPRP certification is helpful? Also, is there anyway that a CPRP can be “grandfathered” into an ADC certification? Thank you.
Hi Johnny,
In order to meet the regulations to be qualified to work as the director, your years or work experience must be the following:
(ii) Has 2 years of experience in a social or recreational program within the last 5 years, one of which was full-time in a patient activities program in a health care setting;
If your work experience meets this criteria of F-tag #249, then yes, you are qualified. I also think your credentials of CPRP would be helpful but, NCCAP does not ‘grandfather’ in activity professionals for certification. You would certainly have some of the required components already in place if you were to consider obtaining NCCAP certification.
Excellent, thank you Theresa….
I have enough work experience, we were looking at F-Tag #249 today and they agreed that the 18 years of full time experience in both hospital and nursing home settings will be sufficient. I’ll look closely at the ADC in the near future for sure!
Thank you for your input….
Wishing you and yours a very happy holiday season.
Grandfathering Activity Professional Certification
Hi,
I was a certified Recreation Director in Connecticut under the Public Healthy Code 2000. I have a Bachelors Degree in Art Education and had worked as a full time Recreation person for over ten years. I was a member of the Connecticut Association of Therapeutic Recreation Directors, Inc. Membership #— while working 5 years at an Alzheimer’s facility in CT and five years as Recreation Director at an Eldercare Day Center in CT. I moved to New Hampshire four years ago and continue to work as a Activities Specialist full time. How do I go about transferring my Recreation Director status from Connecticut to New Hampshire?
Val
Hi Valerie,
If you completed a state specific training course for CT, then this would not transfer to NH. However, with your work experience you definitely meet F-Tag #249 so the facility you are working at is in compliance with the federal regulations.
If I’m not answering your question regarding transferring your Recreation Director status, then I recommend contacting the NH Department of Health directly.
Theresa
Hello. I work at one of Seniors Resource Center’s Adult Day Centers for Developmental Disabled adults as the activity planner. I would like to become certified in this area. Will this program help me to do this with this population? If not can you reccomend one? Thank You. I can be reached at 720-234-5109 and email listed above or 303-233-0423 nramsey@srcaging.org.
Hi Nancy,
The criteria for the work experience is at least 50% of the population you are providing activities for are at least 55 years or older. So if the clients at the Senior Resource Adult Day Center meet this criteria then you would be able to use these hours to fulfill the required work experience.
To answer your question, yes, my courses would meet the requirement of MEPAP 2nd Edition. If you have not been to the NCCAP website to investigate the tracks for certification, please see this link for more information:
http://www.nccap.org/certification/levels/adc.shtml
Theresa
I have recently been told by another activity professional that I now have to be certified to be an activity director in the state of PA. I have been the activity director for two and a half years now. I have worked in activities for 6 years total and I have the MEPAP 2nd edition Part 1. So I am quailified, correct? She has me second guessing myslf now.
Hi Marie,
You have to meet F-tag 249 which doesn’t necessarily mean “certified”. Please see this link for PA regulations regarding activities.
http://www.sph.umn.edu/hpm/NHRegsPlus/NH%20Regs%20by%20Topic/NH%20Regs%20Topic%20Pdfs/Quality%20of%20Life%20Complete/PA%20qlc.pdf
Look at ‘ii’ and if you meet this criteria, then you are qualified under this ruling. MEPAP Part 1, in most states, will qualify you as an activity director. If you have any additional questions, I recommend contacting the PA Department of Health directly.
Theresa
So by taking a mepap part two course, how do you benefit if it is not needed? And by taking the mepap 2 you still can’t get certified, correct? You still need something else. I did look at the website alreay.
Hi Lily,
If your professional goal is to become nationally certified or, if you want the training/education then you would benefit from completing Part 2. Also, in some states you are not qualified just by completing MEPAP Part 1, you need to be certified. Becoming NCCAP certified would ensure your qualifications to meet F-Tag 249 in all states.
Yes, in addtion to MEPAP Part 1 and Part 2, you still need college credits, work experience, and ceu’s to be eligible to apply for certification through NCCAP.
Theresa
I have a bachelors degree in therapeutic recreation is there any way I can get a job in the field If I don’t get certified
Hi Chad,
The following is F-tag #249:
(1) The facility must provide for an ongoing program of activities designed to meet, in accordance with the comprehensive assessment, the interests and the physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being of each resident.
(2) The activities program must be directed by a qualified professional who~~~
(i) Is a qualified therapeutic recreation specialist or an activity professional who~~~
(A) If licensed or registered, if applicable, by the State in which practicing; and
(B) Is eligible for certification as a therapeutic recreation specialist or as an activities professional by a recognized accrediting body on or after October 1, 1990; or
(ii) Has 2 years of experience in a social or recreational program within the last 5 years, one of which was full-time in a patient activities program in a health care setting; or
(iii) Is a qualified occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant; or
(iv) Has completed a training course approved by the State
You would fall under (2) (i), qualified therapeutic recreation specialist, not a certified therapeutic recreation specialist. Hope this answers your question.
Theresa
I am a Property Manager in the apartment business in Memphis, and I do a lot of activities for my residents. I have found that I have a passion to work directly with seniors, and am very interested in becoming a Activities Director. What steps should I make to complete this career change in the future? Can I take all of the courses that I need to qualify on this website?
Hi Michelle,
Please refer to http://www.nccap.org for the details on becoming a certified activity director (ADC). There isn’t a certain order in completing the required components for certification and you may already have some under your belt. Yes, you may take the MEPAP 2nd Edition course through me. I teach a home study format, not on-line.
You will be given a password and username once you register with me to participate in a MEPAP Blog with students across the United States. You may register and begin the course at any time. I hope I’ve answered your questions, please let me know if you have additional questions.
Theresa
do u have any online ceu classes? do they cost or r they free
Hi Donna,
I do have ceu courses available. The information is on my website on “Courses”.
Theresa
It seems that to be certified, the practicum hours can only be 20% volunteer hours. What if no one is hiring, but accepting volunteers? Since a minimum wage law is in effect, we can’t just ask to be hired for a pittance to be able to work and the facility to be able to afford to pay another employee. Thanks.
Hi Aaran,
The practicum hours that is part of the MEPAP 2nd Edition coursework can be all volunteer hours. Please see below for the work experience standards:
1. Applicable activity work experience:
a. directly working with activity programming/documentation 50% of the time
b. 50% or more of residents/clients are 55 yrs. old and over
c. 20% of this experience can be overtime
d. 20% of this experience can be volunteer work
e. internship if not included in academic credits
I hope this helps explain the difference between the practicum hours and required work experience.
Theresa
Just to clarify, I can take MEPAP 1&2, volunteering for the practicum if necessary, then must work in the field and obtain 6000 hrs before I qualify for certification? Thanks.
Hi Aaran,
You need MEPAP 1 and 2, a minimum of 12 college credits, the activity work experience, and ceus. The amount college credits and work experience depends upon which track you are following for certification.
I am in the state of Florida and was wondering if they offer any accelerated courses to become an Activity Director. Also, I found that some places offer online courses that allow you to become certified, however I am not sure if it will be valid in Florida. Is there any way to find out which states require NCCAP certification. Thank you for all of your help.
Hi Rason,
You may look at the regulations for all states on this website: http://www.sph.umn.edu/hpm/NHRegsPlus/NH%20Regs%20by%20Topic/Topic%20Quality%20of%20Life-Activities.html#statecompare
There are no accelerated courses for certification. You would have to complete the full MEPAP 2nd Edition along with the required ceus, college credits, and work experience to be eligible to apply for national certification. If you have not yet done so, please refer to http://www.nccap.org to review the tracks for certification, standards, and criteria. If the course is taught by a NCCAP pre-approved instructor, such as myself, then the course will be valid in all states.
I teach the MEPAP 2nd Edition in a home study format that you may register for and begin at any time.
Theresa
I had my activity directors certification in the past and in 2008 recieved my associates degree in human services . I would like to get recertified but am unsure what to do. Do I Have to take the course all over again. I have many years experience in the field. Can anyone help me?
Hi Jodi,
If you had your certification from NCCAP, you have one year after it expires to renew it. If it’s been more than one year then yes, you have to fulfill all of the requirements over again. Please see the following information from NCCAP:
Reinstatement of Certification
Certification can be renewed up to one year after the expiration date. Activity Professionals are not permitted to use the certification titles during the reinstatement period. Activity Professionals who lapse beyond the reinstatement period must reapply as a new applicant and meet any new standards at the time of the application. Certification files will not be returned but automatically destroyed after a lapse of one year.
Depending upon which state you are from, MEPAP Part 1 will qualify you to oversee the Activity Department. I offer this course as a home study which you can register and begin at any time.
Theresa
Hi Theresa,
I am in Tennessee, have a BA in management and human relations with a lot of credit hours in hands on art and crafts.
For the past 4 years I have been the director of a senior corp program, managing 75 + senior volunteers each day, all over the age of 60. These lovely volunteers work with at risk children every day for at least 4 hours. I write grants, manage budgets, plan monthly trainings, recruit, interview, train, and supervise program staff. Question: will this experience count towards the 4,000 hours of experience needed or will it help in any other area? I look forward to your comments
The information for acquiring a ADC is excellent, thank you.
Penny
Hi Penny,
NCCAP requires the work experience to specifically be in activities with at least 50% of the residents be at least 55 years or older. Please see this link for the exact standards for activity experience: http://www.nccap.org/certification/standards.shtml
I can say, you have excellent experience to include on your resume when applying for an Activity Director’s position! Also, if you are interested, I teach the TN state activity course (40 hours, approved by the TN Department of Health) that would qualify you to work in a long term care setting overseeing the activity department. So you have some options to consider…
Theresa
I live in texas are your courses approved in Texas?
Hi Paula,
Yes, my course is NCCAP approved so therefore, it is approved for TX and all other states.
Theresa
What is the requirement in NJ for someone to be an activity director?
Hi Kelly,
Here is a link for the NJ regulations:
http://www.sph.umn.edu/hpm/NHRegsPlus/NH%20Regs%20by%20Topic/NH%20Regs%20Topic%20Pdfs/QL%20Activities/NJ%20qla.pdf
I am having difficulty finding information about the RAI Manual for MDS 3.0. Any suggestions where to look?
Question. I am wanting to be Activity Consultant Certified. I have completed MEPAP-1st edition and have supervised 8 activity programmers for the last 4 years.
I work 34 hours a week and have gone through QIS training and MDS 3.0 I am also a certified dementia professional
Would I be required to take the MEPAP 2nd edition to recieve my ACC?
If so, does my current experience allow me to bypass any of the requirements?
Hi Kira,
Yes you would be required to complete MEPAP 2nd Edition Part 2 along with the other required components in order to be eligible to apply for ACC level of certification. Please see this link for details: http://www.nccap.org/certification/levels/acc.shtml
You would not be able to ‘bypass’ any of the requirements but your work experience and training may apply towards the consulting experience hours and continuing education. I recommend that you contact NCCAP directly since they will be reviewing and approving your application.
Theresa