Gerontology, Certificate
Certificate in Gerontology (300006C)
This certificate program is a special course of study in gerontology that complements undergraduate degree programs in various departments and colleges throughout the University. Individuals who already hold an undergraduate 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 multi-disciplinary training of personnel in adult development and aging and helps to meet the critical shortage of trained individuals in the field of gerontology. Students also engage in interprofessional education, learning alongside students from different disciplines, which helps prepare students for employment in our increasingly team-based workforce.
Requirements for Admission
To participate in the program, a student must:
- Obtain admittance to The University of Akron as an undergraduate or post-baccalaureate student.
- Submit an application to the program countersigned by the student's major academic advisor.
- Participate in an interview with a designated faculty member of the Institute for Life-Span Development and Gerontology.
- Consult with the Director or designated faculty member to formulate a program of study.
- Complete and submit the BCAS Add Program form.
- Receive written notification of admission from the Director of the Institute for Life-Span Development and Gerontology.
Program Contact
Jennifer Stanley, Ph.D.
Director, Institute for Lifespan
Development & Gerontology
Associate Professor, Psychology
330-972-8376
jstanley@uakron.edu
The following information has official approval of the Buchtel College of Arts & Sciences, but is intended only as a guide. Completion of this certificate is contingent upon many factors, including but not limited to: class availability, total number of required credits, work schedule, finances, family, course drops/withdrawals, successfully passing courses, prerequisites, among others.
The following courses constitute a “Certificate in Gerontology” and must be completed with a minimum grade point average of 2.0 overall for the certificate to be noted on the student’s record. To participate in the program, a student must participate in an interview, receive written notification of admission, and consult with the Director or a designated faculty member of the Institute for Lifespan Development and Gerontology to formulate a program of study.
Summary
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | 12 | |
| Electives | 3 | |
| Total Hours | 15 | |
Required Courses
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| ILSD 450 | Interdisciplinary Seminar in Life-Span Development & Gerontology | 2 |
| ILSD 495 | Practicum in Life-Span Development & Gerontology | 1-3 |
| PSYC 475 | Psychology of Adulthood & Aging 1 | 4 |
| SOCIO 343 | Sociology of Aging 1 | 3 |
| Total Hours | 10-12 | |
Electives
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Select three credits from the following: | 3 | |
| Special Topics in Life-Span Development & Gerontology 3 | ||
| Special Topics in Sociology 2 | ||
| Introduction to Health-Care Management 1 | ||
| Family Relationships in Middle and Later Years | ||
| Introduction to Disorders of Communications | ||
| Emotion Across the Lifespan | ||
| Integrated Human Behavior and Health | ||
| Developmental Psychology | ||
| Total Hours | 3 | |
- 1
In the absence of the prerequisites for PSYC 475 Psychology of Adulthood & Aging, SOCIO 343 Sociology of Aging, HCM 480 Introduction to Health-Care Management, the student in this certificate may request permission of the instructor to waive the prerequisite.
- 2
ILSD 495 Practicum in Life-Span Development & Gerontology and SOCIO 365 Special Topics in Sociology are typically offered for 3 credits.
- 3
ILSD 485 Special Topics in Life-Span Development & Gerontology courses are typically offered for 3 credits.
- 4
Students may also use Independent Study to fulfill elective requirement. In special cases, more than one course in a major department may be used with permission.