Gerontology Degree Online

What is Gerontology?

Gerontology is the study of human aging and of the problems that elderly people often have. The major has a focus on helping with and solving these problems.

Is Gerontology a Good Major / Degree for Me?

Are you compassionate and patient? Do you have a soft spot for the elderly? Do you like to help people? Are you a creative thinker? Are you a strong communicator? Would you like to incorporate many different disciplines into your studies, such as biology, psychology, and business? If you’ve answered yes to some of these questions, then a degree in gerontology might be for you!

High School Classes Needed for a Gerontology Degree in College:

• 4 English Credits
• 3 Math Credits
• 3 Science Credits
• 3 Social Studies Credits
• 2 Foreign Language Credits
• If your high school offers the following courses, take advantage:
  • AP Biology
  • AP Psychology
  • Sociology
• If your high school offers the following co-curricular opportunities, take advantage:
  • Community Service / Service Learning
  • Student Government

Common Gerontology Courses in College:

• The Biology of Aging
• Cultural Anthropology and Linguistics
• Ethnicity and Aging
• Health and Aging
• Intercultural Communications
• Introduction to Gerontology
• Programs, Services, and Policies
• Psychology of Adulthood and Aging
• Sociology
• Statistics in Psychology
• Women and Aging

Many programs require an internship.

Similar Degree Programs You Might Want to Explore:

• Anthropology: the study of humankind, societies, and cultures
• Health Care Administration: a program that prepares students to manage the business aspects in the health care industry
• Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN): a course of study that prepares students to serve as nurses who assist registered nurses and doctors
• Occupational Therapy: the study of how to use specific activities to treat and rehabilitate injured, ill, or disabled people
• Psychology: the study of the human mind and human behavior
• Physical Therapy: a program that prepares students to work as physical therapists or physical therapy assistants (health care professionals who work to rehabilitate people using exercise and specialized equipment)
• Nursing (RN): a course of study that prepares students to serve as registered nurses
• Social Work: a course of study that prepares students to help people in need via a variety of institutions such as prisons, hospitals, and schools

Gerontology Careers:

There are many job opportunities for people in this field. As our population continues to grow and to age, jobs continue to be available. Some gerontology students go on to graduate school, including law school and medical school. Some go into research. Some go to work in and/or manage facilities that care for the elderly. Some become caseworkers. Some work for social services. Some work for private companies as consultants.