Hospice Workers

High School

Persons wishing to obtain a college degree in one of the professions employed by hospice organizations should take a well-balanced college preparatory course in high school, with a good foundation in the sciences. Biology, chemistry, health, and psychology are important courses. You should take anatomy and physiology if your high school offers these courses. You should also take courses in the humanities and social sciences, as well as classes that improve your communication skills. Mathematics and computer science courses are also useful.

High school diploma requirements vary with hospice organizations and the volunteer responsibilities. Some volunteer work does not require a diploma of any kind, for example, answering the phones, cleaning, or maintaining grounds. However, a high school diploma would probably be required for any volunteer position that involves patient contact.

Postsecondary Training

The degree program you should pursue depends on the role you hope to play in the hospice program. Some positions require a bachelor's degree and others a medical degree or other specialized degree. Many hospitals offer medical rotations in hospice care to physicians, nurses, and other professionals involved in training. The University of Maryland offers a master of science, doctorate, and certificates in palliative care. Visit https://graduate.umaryland.edu/palliative for more information.

Certification

Some colleges and universities—such as Madonna University, the University of South Florida, University of Maryland, and University of Illinois Chicago (UIC)—offer certificate programs in hospice and palliative studies, clinical aging sciences, and related fields. To earn the hospice and palliative care certificate from UIC, students must complete the following classes: Dying, Loss & Grief; Palliative Management of Pain & Common Symptoms; and Sociocultural & Ethical Issues in Palliative Care. Contact schools in your area for information about available programs.

Other Education and Training

Throughout their careers, hospice workers in various specialties to continue to build their skills and professional knowledge by taking continuing education classes. For example, nurses may participate in classes that are offered by the American Nurses Association. Physicians might sign up for webinars and workshops that are provided by the American Medical Association. The American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine and the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association also provide continuing education opportunities.