Certificate Overview

The Graduate Certificate in Gerontology is a university-approved program of advanced study offered by the Center for Gerontology.

The required minimum of 9 credits focus on three core gerontology competency domains, namely aging processes and outcomes related to (1) biological changes and health, (2) dimensions of psychological functioning, and (3) contemporary social and societal issues.

The goal of the curriculum is to offer learning experiences consistent with the recommendations of the Association for Gerontology in Higher Education. The Center for Gerontology is a sustainable university-level research center engaging in research resulting in peer-reviewed publications, presentations, and collaboration with diverse faculty affiliates.

How to Apply:
Fill out the online application for participation in the certificate program.

Upon processing of the application, you will be contacted
with information about the submission of additional
required materials. Thank you for your interest.

Admission Requirements

Applicants for the Graduate Certificate in Gerontology must complete the following requirements:

Obtain admission to the Graduate School in a degree program or as a non-degree student: Apply here.
Complete the Center for Gerontology application form.
Complete the Graduate School Graduate Certificate Application form, get signature from the Director of the Center for Gerontology, submit form to the Graduate School, and submit a copy to the Center for Gerontology.
International students must be able to read, write, and speak English.

Course Requirements

The Graduate Certificate in Gerontology requires 9 credits:

Module #1 – Foundations of Gerontology
• HD 5104 - Adult Development & Aging I

Module #2 – Biology/Health
• PHS 5714 - Health of the Elderly

Module #3 – Gerontology Elective (3 cr)
• HD 5114 - Adult Development & Aging II
• SOC 5714 - Aging in Social Context
• 5904 - Project and Report
• 5964 - Practicum/Field Study
• Other approved course; assignments will be focused on gerontology

Optional Practicum/Field Study

An optional practicum or field study may be arranged through the student's academic department or the Center for Gerontology. The contract or letter of agreement with the host agency is reviewed and signed by the Center's director, the student, an agency representative, and the faculty supervisor before the experience occurs in order for credit to be granted. A copy of the final written report on the internship or field study must be submitted to the Center for Gerontology for the student's file. See Practicum Guidelines for more details.

Thesis/Dissertation Requirement

The research topic of the thesis or dissertation must be on an issue in adult development and aging. This requirement is not meant to supersede the authority of the student's committee. Its aim is to assure that an issue in gerontology is examined in the research. To meet this requirement:

Meet with the center director to discuss the topic of the thesis/dissertation before completing the proposal.

After the advisory committee has approved the final draft of the thesis/dissertation, submit a signed cover sheet and abstract to the Center for Gerontology.

Final Documentation

Submit the Graduate School's on-line Application for Certificate Conferral Form by the Application for Degree deadline. Students applying for a degree and the Certificate conferral in the same semester/summer session will pay only one fee if the forms are submitted at the same time.