Gerontology
Our Program
The online, 30 credit hour Master of Science in Gerontology prepares graduates to become practitioners, advocates, leaders, and changemakers in the field of aging. Progress at your own pace and tailor your degree through three pathway tracks, a wide range of electives, and capstone experiences including research and internships.
Program content for this degree is based on core competencies identified by AGHE (Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education), a member group of the Gerontological Society of America.
Ready to Apply?
Everything you need to submit your application.
- The Graduate School Application
- Graduate School application fee
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
- Unofficial transcripts for application; official transcripts upon acceptance
- Written professional statement/statement of purpose
- Three letters of recommendation
- No GRE or entrance exam required
- TOEFL/IELTS for non-native English speakers
If you have questions about the application or admission process, please contact Ms. Ajay Thompson
Choose Your Pathway
Every student completes 15 credit hours of core coursework. From there, choose the pathway that fits your goals.
15 credit hours Core
15 credit hours Electives
15 credit hours Core
6 credit hours LTC Administration
9 credit hours Electives
Most students who complete this option are eligible to sit for their state's administrator licensing exam.
15 credit hours Core
12 credit hours Thesis track
3 credit hours Electives
Required Core Courses
15 credit hours completed by all students, regardless of pathway.
- GERON 772: Adult Development & Aging (3)
- GERON 775: Advanced Diversity in the Aging Experience (3)
- GERON 777: Advanced Policy and Advocacy in Gerontology (3)
- GERON 799: (Capstone) Professional Application in Gerontology (3)
Plus one of the following:
- GERON 605: Practicum in Gerontology (3)
- GERON 620: Independent Study in Gerontology (3)
Please note: GERON 605 and GERON 620 may count toward your core requirement or as an elective, but not both. Each course must be designated as either required or elective on your program of study.
Pathway Course Requirements
Expand your chosen track to see its required courses.
- GERON 610: Healthcare Administration (3)
- GERON 615: Internship in Long-Term Care Administration (3)
Required:
- HHS 888: Foundations in Research Methodology (3)
- HDFS 899: MS Research (Thesis) in Human Development and Family Science (6)
Plus one research methods course:
- EDCEP 817: Statistical Methods in Education (3)
- EDLEA 838: Qualitative Research in Education (3)
- HDFS 806: Statistical Methods in Human Development and Family Science (3)
- HDFS 809: Qualitative Research Methods in Human Development and Family Science (3)
- STAT 703: Introduction to Statistical Methods for the Sciences (3)
Electives
Choose from the courses below, or select approved electives from across campus based on your professional goals. Electives outside this list must be approved by your academic advisor.
- GERON 605: Practicum in Gerontology (1-3)
- GERON 610: Healthcare Administration (3)
- GERON 620: Independent Study in Gerontology (1-3)
- GERON 625: Advanced Physical Health & Well-Being of Older Adults (3)
- GERON 630: Advanced Mental Health & Aging (3)
- GERON 715: Aging Veterans (3)
- GERON 725: Advanced Topics in Gerontology (Study Abroad Trip)
- GERON 730: Advanced Sexuality & Aging (3)
- GERON 740: Advanced Creativity & Aging (3)
- GERON 774: Advanced Environments & Aging (3)
- GERON 778: Advanced Aging Family Dynamics & Caregiving (3)
Getting Ready
Before enrolling, review online learning FAQ page to see computer and software requirements and information about Canvas, the learning management system used in online courses.
Full course descriptions are listed in the Catalog.
For additional information please contact us via e-mail or by phone at 785-532-5510.