Aging & Gerontology

As the population ages, professionals who understand the opportunities and challenges of later life are increasingly in demand. The Gerontology area focuses on the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional aspects of aging, preparing students to support older adults and their families in a variety of settings. 

Students interested in aging-related careers may work in healthcare, senior services, community organizations, long-term care, public policy, nonprofit leadership, and advocacy. Through coursework and experiential learning opportunities, students gain an interdisciplinary understanding of aging and develop skills that are valuable in a rapidly growing field dedicated to enhancing quality of life across the later years.  

Courses Tailored to Aging and Gerontology

Prerequisites: GE Foundation requirements, upper-division standing,  or  or  or . Not open for credit to students with credit in HDEV 400.

Exploration of social, cultural and individual aspects of death experience examined from historical, biological, legal, religious and ethical perspectives. Deathwork, the dying experience, survivorship, ritual and grief examined in light of life-span, cultural and gender diversity.

Prerequisites:  with a 鈥淐鈥 or better and  with a 鈥淐鈥 or better.

This course provides a framework for understanding families, work and their changing relationship. It examines historical transformations in Western and non-Western societies in the nature of work and how these changes have helped to reshape family forms, relationships and processes.

Prerequisites: GE Foundation requirements,  or  or  or  with a 鈥淐鈥 or better.

Biological, psychological and sociocultural aspects in the development of the individual from late adolescence or youth until death. Relevant topics and theoretical issues are treated in an interdisciplinary manner.

Prerequisites:  with a 鈥淐鈥 or better; or  with a 鈥淐鈥 or better; or consent of instructor.

Psychological, social, and cultural transformations associated with the use of digital communication and media devices. We will examine in light of generational change, individual age, and other variables such as identity, cognition, communication, community, civics, human rights, and legacy.

Prerequisite(s):  or  or  or  with a 鈥淐鈥 or better; or consent of the instructor.

This course explores research on health, happiness and well-being in later life. Students examine theories of successful aging from different disciplinary perspectives and explore how sociocultural factors shape people鈥檚 perceptions, expectations, and experiences of aging.

In addition, there are programs you can look into that would complement your degree.

Related Minors/Certificates

  • Geriatric Psychologist
  • Geriatric Care Manager
  • Grief Counselor
  • Health Educator
  • Human Resources Coordinator
  • Nursing
  • Occupational Therapist
  • Physical Therapist
  • Policy Advisor