Gerontology is the study of aging and its effects on individuals and society as a whole. As the population continues to age, there is an increasing demand for professionals with expertise in this field. Online graduate programs in gerontology offer individuals the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to work with older adults in a variety of settings.
In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of pursuing an online graduate program in gerontology, the types of programs available, and the potential career paths for graduates.
Let’s get started!
Master’s Degree
The Master of Science in Medical Sciences with a concentration in Gerontology is ideal for current and aspiring professionals in the field of gerontology and geriatric care. This 36-credit-hour, non-thesis program will impart the skills, knowledge and experience students need to advance their careers and help aging populations transition from one stage of life to the next.
The number of Americans ages 65 and older is projected to reach 77 million by the year 2034, and within two decades, seniors will outnumber children for the first time in U.S. history. There is a growing call for gerontologists and geriatricians that is going unanswered.
Become an Advocate for Older Adults
As a master’s degree student, you will be provided a comprehensive and personalized curriculum covering the biological, clinical, psychological, sociological, legal and ethical aspects of aging. You’ll learn to advocate for the unique needs of older adults, including their mental and physical health and independence.
Through our program, you’ll deepen your knowledge of aging in preparation for providing older adults with services as a gerontologist or quality health care as a geriatrician. Our program also affords the opportunity to earn a graduate certificate with the successful completion of the 9-credit track in addition to your degree.
Additional benefits include:
- Accessibility: No clinical experience or campus visits are required.
- Affordability: Tuition is competitively priced and the same for all students, regardless of their location.
- Efficiency: Earn a master’s degree in as little as one year.
- Flexibility: Courses are asynchronous and can be completed at students’ convenience.
- Relevancy: Curriculum is updated regularly to reflect the latest trends and research findings.
Earn your master’s degree in as little as one year and gain a specialized skill set. Distinguish yourself from your competitors and succeed in your profession or medical school.
Master Gerontology Topics in Our Virtual Classroom
Entirely online and asynchronous, our MS in gerontology program will allow you to complete coursework on your own time and at your own pace. Throughout our program, you’ll access readings, view multimedia materials, complete assignments and participate in discussion boards, all from the comfort of your own home.
Learn (virtually) alongside your fellow graduate students from leading doctors and researchers in the field of aging. Become a master’s degree student to join a supportive online learning environment that’ll prioritize your personal, professional and academic needs.
Secure Your Future in the Field of Aging
For the first time in human history, the majority of people can expect to live well into their sixties. The aging population will become more racially and ethnically diverse with time, meaning that untrained professionals will be unable to adequately provide for the needs of older adults.
Professionals who are able to account for an individual’s unique circumstances, such as their race, gender and health, will find their expertise rewarded. To benefit from emerging opportunities, students can enroll in our online MS in gerontology program.
Required Core Courses (24 credit hours)
- COURSE NUMBER COURSE TITLE CREDITS SPRING SUMMER FALL
- GMS 6099 Research Methods in Gerontology 3 X X X
- GMS 6483 Theories of Aging 3 X X X
- GMS 6484 Geriatric and Age-Related Diseases 3 X X X
- GMS 6485 Population-Based Research 3 X –– ––
- GMS 6486 Biology of Aging 3 X X X
- GMS 6715 Healthy Aging: Behavioral Outcomes 3 X X X
- GMS 6717 Healthy Aging in the New Millennium 3 X X X
- GMS 6771 Clinical Neuroscience of Aging 3 X X X
Elective Courses (12 credit hours)
- COURSE NUMBER COURSE TITLE CREDITS SPRING SUMMER FALL
- GMS 6487 Anti-Aging Interventions 3 X X X
- GMS 6495 Aging Practicum (Master’s Thesis) 3 X X X
- GMS 6495 Data Science and Technology in Gerontology 3 X X X
- GMS 6491 Aging Research Journal Club 1 X X X
- GMS 6440 Fundamentals of Medical Physiology 1 X X X
- GMS 6474 Medical Cardiovascular and Muscle Physiology 3 X X X
- GMS 6419 Medical Endocrinology and Reproduction 3 X X X
Complete the UF Master’s Degree Application
When completing and submitting the application, please note the following important information for each section of the application:
Getting Started
- Go to the Graduate Application.
Keep the username and password that you create in order to log in and edit your application before submission.
- Submitting the Online Application
- Personal Information
Provide all of the requested Personal Information:
- International Applicants:
- You must enter your Surname and Given name in the Passport Name section even if you do not have a passport.
- If you are a permanent resident alien and/or reside in the United States, you must provide your resident alien number and upload a copy of your permanent resident alien card directly to the application.
- Conduct Disclosure
- Accurately answer and report all information in the Conduct Disclosure section.
Application Information & Program of Study
Follow the instructions below to make the correct selections for the degree you are applying for:
- In the Location of Intended Program dropdown, select Distance Education.
- In the Program of Study section, click or search College of Medicine. From the expanded selection, choose Medical Sciences.
- Choose the term you are applying for from the dropdown.
- Review your selection in the Program Display and verify that it is correct before moving to the next application step. If you need to amend your selection, choose Re-Select Program.
- Fill out the Additional Information section with the following:
- Under Concentration, choose the dropdown option Gerontology.
- In the Department Contact Name field, type blank.
- Fill out the Additional Information section with the following:
Activities
- Report past and/or planned activities in this section, including pertinent work experience.
- English Proficiency Test Score Information
- International applicants that are required to provide English proficiency test scores should select the test that they have taken, or plan to take, to meet this requirement.
Additional Questions (Statement of Purpose & Resume/CV)
- A statement of purpose and resume/CV are required and should be uploaded to the application.
- Pursuant to Florida Statute, your application requires inclusion of all post-high school education and employment, as well as information about ongoing international affiliations and research funding.
- Please ensure this information is included on your curriculum vitae (CV) or résumé.
- Letters of Recommendation
- Two letters of recommendation are required and should be uploaded to the application.
Academic Background
- Report your undergraduate major.
- Enter all of the colleges or universities you have attended. Accurately report both the degree you earned and the date it was earned.
- Upload your unofficial transcripts for each school, if you have them.
- Note that your application will not be reviewed for an admission decision until your official transcripts are received (instructions for sending official transcripts are on the Step Three tab on this page).
- The upper-division GPA must be reported on the UF Graduate Application.
Residency Information
- Enter your residency information. The residency of our students has no bearing on tuition cost for our program, but this information is required by the University of Florida.
- If you are a non-Florida resident, check the appropriate box.
- If you are a Florida resident, fully complete the Residency Information section, including the numbers and original issue dates for two of the following three identifying documents.
- Documents may be directly uploaded to the application:
- Driver’s License
- Vehicle Registration
- Voter Registration
- Application Fee
- The $30 application fee must be paid with the submission of the online application in order for the application to be submitted.
- Documents may be directly uploaded to the application:
Benefits of Online Graduate Programs in Gerontology
There are many benefits to pursuing an online graduate program in gerontology. One of the main advantages is the flexibility that online programs offer. Students can complete coursework on their own schedule, which is especially beneficial for individuals who are working full-time or have other commitments.
Another benefit of online programs is that they often have lower tuition costs compared to traditional, on-campus programs. This is because online programs do not have the same overhead costs associated with maintaining a physical campus.
Additionally, online programs often offer the same quality of education as on-campus programs. Many online programs are accredited by the same organizations that accredit on-campus programs, ensuring that graduates receive a high-quality education.
Types of Online Graduate Programs in Gerontology
There are several types of online graduate programs in gerontology available, including master’s degrees, graduate certificates, and doctoral degrees.
A master’s degree in gerontology typically takes two years to complete and provides a comprehensive education in the field. Students will learn about topics such as aging biology, social policy, and healthcare management.
Graduate certificates in gerontology are shorter programs that typically take one year to complete. These programs are designed for individuals who already have a graduate degree in another field but want to gain expertise in gerontology.
Doctoral degrees in gerontology are the most advanced programs available in the field. These programs typically take three to five years to complete and prepare graduates for leadership roles in academia, research, and policy.
Curriculum for Online Graduate Programs in Gerontology
The curriculum for online graduate programs in gerontology will vary depending on the specific program and level of degree. However, there are several common themes that are typically covered in these programs.
One of the main areas of focus in gerontology programs is aging biology. Students will learn about the physical and biological changes that occur as individuals age, as well as the impact of these changes on overall health and well-being.
Another important area of study is social policy. Students will learn about the policies and programs that affect older adults, such as Medicare and Social Security. They will also explore the role of advocacy and activism in promoting policies that benefit older adults.
Other common areas of study include healthcare management, psychology of aging, and end-of-life care.
Potential Career Paths for Graduates
Graduates of online graduate programs in gerontology are well-prepared for a variety of careers in the field. Some potential career paths include:
- Geriatric care manager
- Social worker
- Policy analyst
- Healthcare administrator
- Researcher
Graduates may also choose to pursue additional education, such as a doctoral degree, to further specialize in their field.
Accreditation and Certification
When considering an online graduate program in gerontology, it is important to ensure that the program is accredited by a reputable organization. Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain standards of quality and rigor.
Additionally, graduates may choose to pursue certification in gerontology. The National Association for Professional Gerontologists offers a certification program for individuals who have completed a graduate degree in gerontology or a related field.
Online Learning Tips
Online learning can be a great option for individuals who need flexibility in their schedule. However, it is important to have good time management skills and self-discipline in order to succeed in an online program.
Here are a few tips for success in an online graduate program in gerontology:
- Create a schedule and stick to it
- Eliminate distractions during study time
- Participate in online discussions and group work
- Communicate regularly with professors and classmates
- Take advantage of the resources available, such as online tutoring and writing centers
Choosing an Online Graduate Program in Gerontology
When choosing an online graduate program in gerontology, there are several factors to consider. Some factors to consider include:
- Accreditation
- Tuition cost
- Program length
- Curriculum
- Faculty expertise
- Career services and job placement assistance
It is important to thoroughly research programs before making a decision to ensure that the program meets your needs and career goals.
Additional Information
Add @ufl.edu to your email account’s ‘safe list.’ If you receive any emails from UF regarding your application, you must respond.
Conclusion
Online graduate programs in gerontology offer individuals the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to work with older adults in a variety of settings. These programs provide flexibility, affordability, and a quality education. Graduates are prepared for a variety of careers in the field and may choose to pursue additional education or certification to further specialize in their area of interest. When choosing a program, it is important to consider factors such as accreditation, tuition cost, and curriculum to ensure that the program meets your needs and career goals.
References: Our blog post does not include a reference section as per guidelines. However, the sources used for this post include reputable online resources such as the National Institute on Aging, the Gerontological Society of America, and the National Association for Professional Gerontologists.
