Academic Programs

Graduate Level Certificate Program

The residential graduate certificate in gerontology program provides an opportunity for those who have completed a bachelor’s degree in another profession or discipline and are employed in the field of aging to acquire a greater understanding of gerontology theory and research. The program consists of 16 units of gerontology content designed to familiarize the student with several areas of the field which relate to professional practice.

In addition to three of the four required core course areas for the certificate program (GERO 510, GERO 520 or GERO 522, GERO 530 or GERO 585, GERO 540), each student will have the option to choose one elective course which meets his or her particular area of interest.

Certificate students do not take a field practicum. Students admitted to the non-degree certificate program are expected to enroll each semester until the program is completed.

Online Graduate Level Certificate in Gerontology

The online graduate certificate in gerontology program provides an opportunity for those with a bachelor’s degree in another profession or discipline who are employed in the field of aging to acquire a greater understanding of gerontology theory and research. The program is designed to serve individuals who are unable to come to regularly scheduled classes or to the campus by delivering courses over the Internet. The program consists of 16 units of gerontology courses designed to familiarize the student with several areas of the field which relate to professional practice.

Students complete the introductory Internet-based course, GERO 500, two of the four required core course areas (GERO 510 or GERO 513, GERO 520 or GERO 522, GERO 530 or GERO 585, and GERO 540), and one elective course in a particular area of interest.

The required courses are delivered via the Internet. The courses are offered in sequential order and are restricted by availability. Continuous registration in the non-degree program is required. Leaves of absence are available for limited times and are excluded from the total time limit. Entering students are required to begin their course of study by taking GERO 500.

In order to participate in the online courses, students will be required to have access to a multimedia computer with modem, printer and CD-ROM drive; an Internet provider with email and an Internet browser; and word processing software. The department will provide specific details regarding the computer requirements.

Pharm. D - Certificate in Gerontology

This integrated program in pharmacy and gerontology prepares students with an interest in geriatric pharmacy to assume leadership roles at academic, administrative or policy levels within the profession.

The program involves the completion of 16 units of core courses in physiology, psychology, sociology and social policy aspects of aging offered by the School of Gerontology. In addition, students are required to complete 8 units of approved elective courses in gerontology or geriatric pharmacy to be credited toward the requirements for the Pharm.D. and the Graduate Certificate in Gerontology.

It is expected that the program can be successfully completed by candidates taking electives in geriatric pharmacy or gerontology during the regular semester and completing one core course in gerontology during each summer in the four year Pharm.D. program.

Admission Requirements