Health Sciences Degree (B.S.), Concentration in Gerontology

Cole Chapman, health sciences major. He is wearing a black shirt and leans against a railing.

Empowering Careers in Aging and Elder Care

The Gerontology concentration within the Health Sciences major equips students with a deep, interdisciplinary understanding of aging and its impact on health and society. Blending the foundational Health Sciences curriculum with focused coursework in gerontology, students examine the aging process through biological, psychological, and social lenses. Core topics include medical ethics, public health, and evidence-based research, complemented by specialized classes like Introduction to Gerontology, Health & Physical Aging, and Sociology of Aging. Students also have the opportunity to select electives in areas such as caregiving, policy, and lifespan development, allowing them to shape their academic experience to align with their interests and career goals. Ideal for those interested in long-term care, elder advocacy, or graduate study in gerontology or healthcare, this concentration prepares students to make a meaningful impact in the lives of older adults.

Program Highlights

  • Provides practical learning through the Gerontology Lab
  • Develops skills in research methods and data analysis for aging-related issues
  • Prepares students for careers in elder care or graduate studies
  • Offers diverse electives to tailor the learning experience

Launch Your Career in Gerontology Today!

Explore the field of gerontology and prepare for a rewarding career working with older populations.

Understanding and Supporting the Aging Population

  • An Alzheimer's Association speaker presents to a group of students seated in rows, attentively listening.

    Research-Driven Approach to Aging

    Students develop skills in social science research methods, including statistics and research courses, to analyze aging-related issues and gain the tools needed to address complex challenges in gerontology.

  • A Health Sciences student negotiates obstacles with a walker

    Flexible Elective Options for Career Growth

    The program offers diverse electives, such as Lifespan Development and Sociology of Medical Care, allowing students to tailor their education and enhance career opportunities in elder care, policy, and graduate studies.

  • Two Occupational Therapy students practice with a simulated patient in a car during a lab session.

    Hands-On Learning Experience

    Gain practical training through the Gerontology Lab, where students develop real-world skills by working directly with older populations and applying theoretical knowledge in a clinical setting

Program Details

Learning Outcomes
  • Increase student flexibility to explore a variety of aspects of healthcare.
  • Utilize a multidisciplinary approach to problem solving and patient care.
  • Prepare students to be leaders in the new model of healthcare.
  • Increase relevance of university curriculum.
  • Increase accessibility of graduate school prerequisites.
  • Increase marketability of students as they apply to graduate schools and professional positions.
  • Broaden teaching service and scholarship opportunities for faculty members.
  • Promote interdepartmental collaboration.

What Can You Do with a Health Sciences, Gerontology Concentration, B.S.?

A Health Sciences, Gerontology Concentration, B.S. opens up diverse career paths in healthcare, social services, research, and policy-making focused on aging populations. Here are some opportunities:

  • Aging Services Coordinator
  • Case Manager for Elderly Clients
  • Geriatric Care Coordinator
  • Graduate Studies
  • Long-Term Care Administrator
  • Health Educator in Aging and Wellness
A Health Sciences student presents a research poster to an audience.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Program Description

The Health Sciences major's concentration in Gerontology provides a pathway for Health Science students to gain the skills and understanding necessary to work with an older population. The courses in the concentration in Gerontology include the five foundational Health Sciences courses and an additional number of multidisciplinary courses aimed at helping students develop an understanding of the physical, social, and psychological aspects of aging. Gerontology is an interdisciplinary social science and students claiming a concentration in Gerontology need to have an understanding of the statistics and the research methods that are an intrinsic part of social science disciplines. This concentration is appropriate for students who are wanting to work with an older population, students seeking careers within long-term care facilities, and for students wanting to go into graduate school for specialized training in health care and/or gerontology.

 

Health Sciences Core Requirements (15 Credits)

All Health Science students must complete the following core courses with a grade of B or higher:

Gerontology Concentration (25-26 Credits)

Students completing the Gerontology concentration must take the following courses and earn a grade of C or higher.

Gerontology Required Courses

  • *Students can complete both BIOL 0237 and BIOL 0239 as a substitute for GERO 0201. 
  • Students must choose any one research course from the following:

Gerontology Elective Courses

Students must choose any two electives from the following:

Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the  and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in  or .

Get Big School Features with Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a welcoming campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 15:1

    student-faculty ratio

  • 87%

    of students receive financial aid

  • 700+

    Internship Opportunities

Personalized Attention from Dedicated Faculty

All our faculty hold graduate degrees in the subjects that they teach. You’ll get personalized attention and experience using a multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving and patient care. Your professors are committed to increasing your knowledge of healthcare through a combination of relevant coursework and individual leadership project opportunities.

Health Sciences Faculty Member Group Photo

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).     

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the established by the in order to qualify for admission to a state university.   

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ cost?

À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

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Health Sciences Degree (B.S.), Concentration in Gerontology