Online Master of Science in Aging

What is gerontology?

Gerontology is the study of aging. The science of gerontology has evolved as people have begun to live longer. Older adults have diverse needs that will have to be addressed by trained professionals.

Due to this variety of needs, areas of specialization are not only limited to health care. Experts in gerontology come from a range of backgrounds. Many have studied in areas like the social sciences, health policy, psychology, social work and public health.

Care for aging populations

Caring for the well-being of aging populations takes many forms. Those with an interest in gerontology may research bodily changes from middle age to later life and examine how these changes affect their daily lives. They may also study societal changes and trends as a result of the aging population.

In the Master of Science in aging, you’ll have the opportunity to develop the skills needed to work with a variety of professionals and the expertise to promote the well-being of older adults. During the program, you’ll learn the following:

• Communicating effectively with older adults.
• Determining how groups will respond to interventions.
• Designing quality improvement and evidence-based practice projects.
• Educating coworkers about aging populations.
• Explaining the generational differences between populations.
• Impacting health care policy.
• Managing research projects.
• Navigating the financial aspects of aging, such as retirement and health care.
• Supporting, educating and advocating for caregivers.
• Translating and applying research.
• Understanding the special and complex needs of older patients.

Throughout the program, you’ll be encouraged to pursue hands-on learning experiences in solving problems related to aging. Although the courses are online, you’ll be expected to participate in learning experiences outside of the classroom. For example, you may be expected to complete a site visit or interview an administrator at a long-term care facility. Or you may shadow an occupational therapist at a rehabilitation facility or interview older adults to learn about their needs.

Due to the aging of our population, job growth is expected to continue in fields related to the well-being of older adults. Upon graduation, you may choose to pursue a research, administrative or consultant role in one of the following settings:

• Accountant office.
• Acute care facility.
• Alzheimer’s disease research facility.
• Assisted living facility.
• Banking.
• Community-based care center.
• Construction.
• Dental office.
• Economic security department.
• Homeless center.
• Housing services.
• Law enforcement.
• Law firm.
• Nonprofit organization.
• Nursing home.
• Older adult housing.
• Primary care facility.
• Rehabilitation center.
• Utility company.
• Veteran’s affairs hospital or care center.
• Or any other setting specifically related to your undergraduate degree.