Gerontology, Certificate

This certificate program is a special course of study in gerontology that compliments graduate degree programs in various departments and colleges throughout the University. There is a combined graduate certificate program with Kent State University. Combined, the two universities offer a diverse range of graduate courses with aging-related content and join faculty that are nationally and internationally recognized scholars in gerontology. The graduate certificate is to be received with either a master’s or doctoral degree. Individuals who already hold a graduate degree may also pursue the certificate. The program represents a concentration involving current knowledge and research in gerontology. It adds another dimension to the knowledge and skills a student is able to offer in the many professions that are becoming specialized in research and service to adults and older adults. This course of study coordinates multidisciplinary training of personnel in adult development and aging and helps to meet the critical shortage of trained individuals in the field of gerontology.

The graduate curriculum committee of the Institute for Life-Span Development and Gerontology will oversee this certificate program and certify, through the director of the Institute, that all requirements of the certificate have been completed.

B.S./M.D. students may complete Practicum/Internship and electives from courses available from the Institute or the Office of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED).

Admission

To participate in the program at the graduate level, a student must:

  • Obtain admittance to the Graduate School.
  • Submit an application to the program countersigned by the student’s major academic advisor.
  • Participate in an interview with the Director or designated faculty member of the Institute for Life-Span Development and Gerontology.
  • Consult with the director or a designated faculty member to formulate a program of study.
  • Receive written notification for admission from the director of the Institute for Life-Span Development and Gerontology.

Program

Core9
Research Methods Course
ILSD 680Interdisciplinary Seminar in Life-Span Development & Gerontology
ILSD 695Practicum in Life-Span Development & Gerontology
Electives9
Select a minimum of three courses: 1
ILSD 686Retirement Specialist
ILSD 690Workshop: Life-Span Development & Gerontology
ILSD 690Workshop: Life-Span Development & Gerontology
POLIT 580Policy Problems in Political Science (Offered every other year)
PSYC 620Core II: Cognitive Psychology
PSYC 727Psychology of Adulthood & Aging
CHFD 541Family Relationships in Middle and Later Years
SOCIO 678Social Gerontology
HCM 683Health Services Systems Management (with permission)
SLPA 624Neurogenic Speech & Language Disorders
Total Hours18
1

A student is required to take two of the three electives outside the major or degree department. One credit workshop may be included as an elective, with permission.