Gerontology Certificate

Program Overview

This gerontology certificate program offers a comprehensive curriculum with core courses in aging fundamentals and elective options tailored to specific interests. Students gain practical experience through a field placement and must maintain a B grade average in all coursework. Graduates are prepared for careers in diverse settings serving older adults, including healthcare, social services, and community organizations.

Program Outline

Outline:

• Core Courses (9 credit hours):
• Introduction to Gerontology
• Social Policy and Aging
• Health and Aging
• Elective Courses (6 credit hours):
• Students choose at least two elective courses from a list of approved options, such as:
• Aging and the Family
• Mental Health and Aging
• Geriatric Social Work
• Death and Dying
• Field Education (3 credit hours):
• Students complete a field placement in a setting that serves older adults, such as a nursing home, assisted living facility, or community center.

Assessment:

Careers:

• Graduates with a gerontology certificate may find employment in various settings, including:
• Institutional settings
• Community care agencies
• Mental health services
• Other areas serving older adults