Applied Gerontology, M.S. Details

Applied Gerontology, M.S. Details Applied Gerontology, M.S.

More people are living longer lives than ever before in history, and this change is happening regionally, nationally, and internationally.

The Master of Science in Applied Gerontology prepares professionals to improve the well-being of older adults, as advocates, direct service providers, educators/trainers, administrators, marketers and product developers, program planners, evaluators, researchers, and more.

Gerontologists may work with a variety of public and private organizations that provide services and goods needed by an aging population, or they may create their own new job opportunities in this fast growing field.

About the Program

This is a 36-credit hour program and prospective students will include those who have majored in fields such as psychology, sociology, social work, exercise science, recreation therapy, public health, biology, or nursing, as well as allied health professionals. The program is built on theoretical foundations, supported by the practical application of service-learning, and integrating teaching, mentoring, research, and service. Many courses are online.

Drawing on the Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education’s competencies as a framework, our goal is to educate gerontologists who will improve quality of life and promote well-being of persons as they age within their families, communities and societies through research, education and application of interdisciplinary knowledge of the aging process and aging populations.

UNCW is a regional university, with a mission statement that indicates a dedication to serve the population of southeastern North Carolina. However, we also recognize that population aging is a global issue, and this perspective is represented in our program as well.

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Admissions & Application Information

Program Information

4+1 Combined Programs

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate

Student Opportunities & Resources

Professional & Career Information

Admissions

Bachelor’s degree earned from a regionally accredited college or university, completed before graduate study begins
Strong overall academic record with a 3.0 GPA or better.
An application for graduation admission
Official transcripts of all college work (undergraduate and graduate)
An essay on the applicant’s goals in pursuing the Master of Science in Applied Gerontology
Three recommendations by individuals in academically or professionally related fields

Application

Application and supplemental documents must be submitted by the published deadline.

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Our 4 + 1 Combined Programs allow UNCW undergraduates in exercise science, psychology, public health, tourism recreation and sport, and recreation therapy to begin taking graduate courses by their senior year. These courses will count towards both their undergraduate degree and the M.S. in Applied Gerontology, which can be completed in just one additional year.

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The goal of the post-baccalaureate certificate is to provide a program of instruction and educational experiences in the field of gerontology at the graduate level, i.e., an academic foundation for anyone who plans to work with aging adults. As those who serve the elderly must be aware of all aspects of aging, in addition to health course work will address the biology, sociology, and psychology of aging with electives in literature, life transitions, economics, psychosocial adjustment to retirement, ethics, communication, and others.

Courses are taught by faculty in a number of different disciplines such as: departments of Biology, Sociology, Psychology, English, Philosophy and Religion, and Communications within the College of Arts and Sciences. Additional courses may be taught by faculty from the schools of Nursing and Social Work within the College of Health and Human and Human Sciences and from the Cameron School of Business, and the Watson School of Education.

Learn more about the Gerontology Post-Baccalaureate Certificate

A big part of an well-rounded, successful and fun college experience happens outside the classroom. Participating in student organizations gives you the chance to get to know your classmates, explore new interests and discover who you are.

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Assistantships:

Student Request for Graduate Assistantship (PDF)

Professional Organizations in Aging

Careers in Aging Information

Alumni in the Field

Hear from alumna, Lydia Arnold, who was interviewed on the Aging Well Together Radio Show (Supportive Programs at the Orange County Department on Aging).

Student Experience

Through course work that is both multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary, the M.S. in Applied Gerontology will prepare graduates to be aware of all aspects of aging, which will help them both personally and professionally.

Graduates will be prepared for careers involving work with older adults through synthesizing coursework in physiology, health, psychology, and social sciences, as well as hands-on experience with older populations. Students will customize the degree program with 12 credit hours of electives to meet their needs and interests.