Gerontology is the study of older adults and of the aging process. Majors from any field may enhance their credentials and their ability to work with older adults – a fast-growing population – through the Gerontology Certificate Program. Students examine influences on the roles and quality of life of older people as well as the physical and psychological aspects of aging. Courses investigate perceptions about older people in various societies and how the experiences of older people differ according to culture, ethnicity, class, and gender. Students complete a practicum that gives them experience working with this population. Completion of the Gerontology Certificate Program is noted on the student's transcript, and students receive a certificate acknowledging their attainment. |
In addition to the University Core Curriculum and College requirements for a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree, students must complete the following: Lower-Division Courses At least one of the following four courses: - Sociology 1 (Principles of Sociology)
- Anthropology 3 (Introduction to Social/Cultural Anthropology)
- General Psychology I
- General Psychology II
Upper-Division Courses - Biology 187 (Biology of Aging): A gerontology-related practicum approved by the director
At least three of the following: - Anthropology 172 (Anthropology of Aging)
- Political Science 168 (Special Topics in Public Policy/Politics of Aging)
- Psychology 119 (Psychology of Death, Dying, and Loss)
- Psychology 196 (Psychology of Aging)
- Religious Studies TESP 126 (Spirituality and Aging)
- Sociology 172 (Management of Health Care Organizations)
- Sociology 176 (Elder Law)
- Any gerontology-related course with approval of the director.
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While gerontological specialists devote most of their professional time working for or with older people, the roles that gerontological specialists carry out are diverse. Examples of jobs in traditional fields: clinical psychologists, counselors, educators and researchers, lawyers, long-term care administrators, nurses, physicians, recreation therapists, rehabilitation therapists, social workers, marketing specialists, managers, program planners. |
