Program structure
Courses are open to students in and out of the certificate program. Students who complete the program will be awarded a Certificate in Gerontology and Aging Studies. All students who wish to enroll in courses must complete an application through the College of Graduate Studies or, for those who have not completed a bachelor's degree, the Degree Completion Program.
The course of study requires 18 hours of aging studies coursework, a professional elective in an area related to one's field and a practicum project completed in one's field of expertise or work area. A full description of the gerontology program structure and requirements is available online in PDF format.
Core courses in the certificate program:
- Issues in Gerontology and Aging Studies OR an equivalent adult development and aging course.
- Aspects of Health and Aging
- Social Gerontology
- Mental Health and Aging
- Faith Development and Later Life
Four of these core courses are offered in online format (via
Blackboard). The fifth course is offered twice a year in an intensive format and in select cases through self-study. Students may take courses at either the graduate or undergraduate level. Graduate level courses require additional research and application of course content.
Students who are accepted into the certificate program
are assigned an advisor and mentor to assist with the practicum proposal and project.