Program Overview
Niagara University's Gerontology program equips students with a comprehensive understanding of aging, covering biological, psychological, and sociological aspects. Through a flexible curriculum, students tailor their studies to their interests and career goals, choosing from elective courses in three disciplinary perspectives. The program emphasizes research skills, social policy, and practical experience through internships, preparing graduates for careers in fields serving older adults.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Gerontology program at Niagara University provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work with and understand the aging population. The program's curriculum covers a range of topics, including the biological, psychological, and sociological aspects of aging; research methods; and social policy. Students also have the opportunity to complete an internship in a field related to aging.
Objectives:
- Prepare students for careers in fields that serve older adults.
- Provide students with a foundation in the study of aging.
- Develop students' research skills.
- Foster students' understanding of social policy related to aging.
Program Description:
The gerontology program offers a flexible curriculum that can be tailored to the individual student's interests and career goals. Students can choose from a variety of elective courses to create a program of study that meets their needs. The program is also easily accommodated minors and double majors.
Outline:
The gerontology program consists of the following required courses:
- GRN 100: Introduction to Gerontology
- GRN 403: Supervised Research
- GRN 493: Internship In addition to the required courses, students must complete seven elective courses. The electives represent three disciplinary perspectives: biological, psychological, and sociocultural. Depending on their interests and career plans, students select between one and five courses from each of the disciplinary perspectives.
Assessment:
Students are assessed on their knowledge and skills through a variety of methods, including:
- Exams
- Papers
- Presentations
- Research projects
- Internships
Teaching:
The gerontology program is taught by a team of experienced faculty who are dedicated to providing students with a high-quality education. The faculty members use a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Group projects
- Simulations
- Field trips
Careers:
Graduates of the Niagara University gerontology program are well positioned to enter the workforce or continue their studies in professional or graduate programs. The gerontology major provides every student with a broad knowledge base, as well as research and applied experience. The program's flexibility allows students to select electives, minors, and double majors that support their interests and career goals. Students also have a choice of research topics and placement sites. Potential career paths for graduates of the gerontology program include:
- Healthcare
- Elder law
- Social services
- Residential management
- Recreational activities
