Gerontology Certificate Program

Director: Patricia M. Simone

Gerontology is the study of the aging process and adults over 65. Majors from any field may enhance their credentials and their ability to work with this population through the Gerontology Certificate Program. Students examine influences of the roles and quality of life of aged adults as well as physical and psychological aspects of aging. Courses investigate perceptions about aging and aged adults 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 aged adults. Completion of the Gerontology Certificate Program is noted on a student's transcript and with a certificate acknowledging their achievement.

Requirements for the Certificate

Students must complete the following requirements to receive a certificate in gerontology:

• One lower-division course from the following: SOCI 1 (Principles of Sociology), ANTH 3 (Introduction to Social and Cultural Anthropology), PSYC 1 or PSYC 2 (General Psychology I or II), or PHSC 21 (Health and Aging)

• Four upper-division courses from the following (one must be ANTH 172 or PSYC 196): ANTH 172 (Anthropology of Aging), PSYC 196 (Psychology of Aging), PSYC 117 (Health Psychology), PSYC 119 (Psychology of Death, Dying, and Loss), SOCI 172 (Management of Health Care Organizations), SOCI 138 (Populations of India, China, and the United States), SOCI 148 (Stakeholder Diversity in Contemporary American Organizations), TESP 157 (Ethics in the Health Professions), or any gerontology-related course with approval of the director

• A gerontology-related practicum approved by the director (typically completed during your senior year)