Gerontology

Gerontology is the study of the biological, psychological and social aspects of aging. An understanding of aging is useful in many fields of work including nursing, social work, psychology, medicine, occupational and physical therapy, exercise physiology, economics and management. Thus, the study of aging complements many majors. Given the dramatic increase in the number of older adults expected in the United States in the next 30 years, those with preparation in gerontology will be best prepared to meet the demands of our aging population.

Program Director: Angela Rosenberg Hauger, Ph.D., L.P.

GERONTOLOGY MINOR AND CERTIFICATE PROGRAM

 

The Gerontology Minor/Certificate Program provides students with a strong foundation in gerontology, preparing them to work with and advocate for older adults. The program is structured so students are able to individualize their courses of study to fit their career needs. Typically, degree-seeking students choose the minor and non-degree seeking students choose the certificate. The requirements for both the minor and the certificate are the same (equivalent of 20 credits).

Requirements

 

Core courses (8 credits total): GER 3315 and GER 3316Elective Courses

Students are able to individualize their courses of study to fit their career needs by choosing among a number of electives. These electives address aging-related knowledge and skills. A total of eight credits is required.

Electives (8 credits from the following):GER 2203, GER 3310,GER 3318,GER 3325*,GER 3341*,GER 3424, GER 3777, GER 4125, and GER 4444, and SWK 4440. PTH 5513 and PTH 6567 or OTH 6524 count as 4 elective credits. *Only one of these courses may be used as an elective course.

The Gerontology Directed Applied Project (GERO-DAP) is a supervised field experience that allows students to transfer academic theory into practical application by working with or for older adults. Students choose where to complete their projects. Popular sites include agencies that provide services to older adults and long-term care settings such as the Benedictine Health Center on the College campus. Supervised primary research involving a literature review and older adults as research participants can also meet the GERO-DAP requirement.   Gerontology Directed Applied Project or equivalent: GER 4555 (4 credits) or GER 4556/5556 (0 or 1 credit) with supervised field work for credit as required by the student's major.Application to minor/certificate

Application to Minor/Certificate

Students must be enrolled at the College. Application to the minor/ certificate program involves a short consultation with the program director to plan coursework. There are no other requirements.