Gerontology - Undergraduate & Graduate Programs
Demographics continue to drive the study of aging. It is estimated that in 2030, 1 in 5 Americans will be over the age of 65 (70 million persons). Currently, the fastest growing segment in the United States is over 85 years of age.
The Department of Human Development and Family Studies offers an undergraduate minor or certificate program in Gerontology, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Gerontology and a Master of Arts in Human Development/Gerontology. These programs promote understanding of the nature of aging, socially constructed definitions of aging, public policy, and systems and networks for promoting human development.
The 18 credit undergraduate curriculum is designed to compliment a variety of undergraduate degree programs, like nursing, social work, sociology and more. The core courses and related electives provide a fundamental overview of gerontological issues and the aging process. (link to core courses & related electives)
After more than 30 years of offering our Saint Joseph College Gerontology graduate program, we are taking time to reexamine the needs of today's gerontology professionals and organizations in the changed environment of the 21st century. In order to create space and energy to engage in this reflection, research, and visioning, we will suspend new admissions to the graduate Gerontology certificate and master's degree programs through 2012. We hope to refine our gerontology program so that our graduates are qualified to obtain nationally recognized certification as Masters’ level Gerontological Care Managers after graduation. Please visit our website regularly for updates as we move toward a renewed commitment to providing outstanding professional leaders in the field of gerontology.
For more information contact:
Vivian Carlson, Ph.D.
Department Chair
860.231.5341
vcarlson@sjc.edu
