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Certificate in Gerontology

Gain Key Skills for Working With Older Adults

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Program Details

  • Location: Online
  • Duration: 11 months
  • Times: Flexible
  • Cost: $3,500 (noncredit)
    $4,524 (credit)

Next start date

September 27, 2017

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About this Program


People who work with older adults often get great satisfaction from making a positive difference in their lives. As average life expectancies rise and this group makes up a growing share of the U.S. population, the need for professionals with gerontology expertise will continue to expand.

In this four-course certificate program, you’ll examine the specific challenges and opportunities involved in supporting this demographic group. We’ll take a detailed look at the relevant psychological, biological and social factors. Develop the knowledge to better serve older adults in fields such as health and wellness, finance, housing and recreation.

▸ Related Article: Discover a Meaningful Career Serving Older Adults

DESIGNED FOR

Professionals, community figures and family members who provide services to older adults.

See Requirements

What You'll learn

  • Biological aspects of aging and functional changes associated with the process, including illnesses
  • Social, cultural and economic factors that influence the perception and treatment of the older adults
  • Different psychological theories of aging, with a focus on current research
  • How political issues relating to advocacy, public policy and long-term care can affect the lives of older adults
  • Information about career developments and trends

Get Hands-On Experience

You’ll complete a research project that includes interviewing older adults and connecting with an agency that provides services to this community. 

Choose From Noncredit and Credit Options

By completing this certificate program, you can earn credit toward your bachelor’s degree. To do so, you must enroll in the credit version of the program. Because policies vary, check with your intended degree program to make sure the credits will apply. If you don’t plan to pursue a degree, choose the noncredit offering. See Noncredit & Credit Options.

APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP

You can apply for a $1,000 scholarship to help pay for this program. Details are provided as part of the certificate application process.

Program Overview

Complete the courses listed below to earn the certificate. You may be able to take individual courses without enrolling in the certificate program; check the course pages for details.

Quarter 1

Biological Aspects of Aging (UCONJ DL440)

Quarter 2

Psychology of Aging (UCONJ DL411)

Quarter 3

Families & Aging in a Social-Cultural Context (UCONJ DL442)

Quarter 4

Current Issues in Aging (UCONJ DL413)

Certificate in Gerontology

Approved by the UW School of Social Work.

View this program's advisory board.

Program Sessions

Online

Cost of Program: $3,500

Divided into quarterly payments – additional fees apply – See Details

Cost of Program: $4,524

Divided into quarterly payments – additional fees apply – See Details

Closed Sessions

Cost of Program: $3,300

Divided into quarterly payments – additional fees apply – See Details

Cost of Program: $4,524

Divided into quarterly payments – additional fees apply – See Details

Learning Formats

Online

Courses are offered 100 percent online. The flexible online format allows you to access course content wherever you are, on your own schedule. You simply need to complete assignments by their due dates. Lessons, assignments and other course materials are delivered through a Web-based learning management system, such as Canvas or Moodle, which also serves as a hub for communicating with your instructors and classmates.

Blended

Our special blended programs combine the convenience of online study with the vibrancy of in-person classes for a unique learning experience.

Not available for this program

Classroom

Attend class in person at one of our convenient locations. You’ll engage face to face with your classmates and instructors as part of a highly interactive curriculum. An online learning management system may be required to access some course materials and assignments.

Not available for this program

Related Articles

  • Discover a Meaningful Career Serving Older Adults

    The 65 and over set is growing. And so is demand for products and services that address their needs. Learn how all of this translates into a wealth of opportunities for you to build a meaningful career.

  • Possible Ways to Pay for Your Education

    If you’re thinking about heading back to school, you’re probably also wondering how you’ll pay for it. To help you figure that out, we’ve put together a list of ways to help fund your education.

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