Our gerontology graduate certificate program integrates professional and liberal arts studies, embracing a holistic approach to adult development and aging.

You may complete the 24-credit certificate program or pursue a gerontology focus in the Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (MAIS) program.

In the gerontology graduate gertificate program, you will:

• Explore the social, psychological and biophysical changes that occur as part of the aging process
• Examine the political and economic issues of old age
• Recognize the importance of social, cultural and historical context in understanding the aging process
• Appreciate the diversity of individual aging experiences due to gender, race/ethnicity and class
• Gather information about potential career, learning and service opportunities

Through the gerontology curriculum, you will engage in traditional, rigorous scholarly inquiry in theory and research while you explore and conceptualize aging in creative, new ways.

Careers in Gerontology

New professional roles are emerging and traditional roles are expanding to adapt to the needs of an aging population. Gerontological specialists can be found in the fields of law, corrections, human services, counseling, education, business, housing and government.

In general, you'll follow one of two career ladders in the field of aging: as a specialist or an administrator. As a specialist, you would continue to develop skills and gain increased responsibilities as a health care or service provider, educator or researcher. As an administrator, you might lead organizations and agencies, influencing policy and program development.

Occupational Profile on O*NET
(21-1093: Social and Human Service Assistants)

Program Length & Costs

The estimated time to complete the program is 12 months.
Estimated costs are:
Tuition* (24 credits) = $13,344
Books & Supplies ($50 per credit) = $1,200
TOTAL = $14,544
*Calculated at the current 2012-13 tuition rate.