Master's in Applied Gerontology Interdisciplinary Studies

Program Overview

The Interdisciplinary Studies Master's in Applied Gerontology prepares students to understand the aging process and address the needs of aging populations. The 30-credit hour program emphasizes research in healthcare and social sciences and offers flexibility in course selection from disciplines including anthropology, criminal justice, and health care management. Ranked among the top 25 in the nation, the program equips students with marketable skills in interdisciplinary work, teamwork, and professional writing.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Interdisciplinary Studies Master's with a concentration in Applied Gerontology is a program designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of aging processes, a commitment to research and development, and a belief in the value and potential for human fulfillment in later life. The program emphasizes the application of research in healthcare and social sciences to improve care for aging populations. It aims to develop professionals who can address the needs of growing populations of older adults.

Objectives:

• Develop a sound understanding of the processes of aging.
• Foster a commitment to the pursuit of new developments and research in gerontology.
• Instill a belief that the latter years of life have intrinsic value and offer the potential for human fulfillment.
• Equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to meet the needs of aging populations.

Program Description:

• The program requires students to complete 30 credit hours.
• Students can choose to complete the program online, in a hybrid format, or in person at the Frisco or Denton campuses.
• Students must complete coursework in three academic areas: gerontology, and two other related disciplines such as anthropology, criminal justice, geography, health care management, or sociology.
• At least 6 credit hours must be completed in each of the three academic areas.
• Students will develop a degree plan with the assistance of the INSD academic counselor.

Other:

• The program is ranked a Top 25 Program in the Nation by MyDegreeGuide.com.
• Students will develop a degree plan with the aid and approval of a three-member faculty advisory committee composed of representatives from their three academic areas of study.
• The interdisciplinary studies program offers students a high degree of flexibility in designing a program of study that cuts across disciplinary boundaries.
• The program emphasizes the development of marketable skills such as independent work across disciplines, teamwork, function across organizational silos, information synthesis, and professional writing.