Gerontology, Minor

Liberal Arts (Code 670-400)

Advisor: L. Olson-McBride

Gerontology is a multidisciplinary field that examines the correlates and consequences of human aging. To reflect this multidisciplinarity, the Gerontology minor includes courses from a variety of academic disciplines. Objectives of the minor include:

  1. promoting an understanding of the multifaceted nature of the human aging process;
  2. generating awareness of both the rewards and challenges associated with aging;
  3. providing a broad program of study that complements a number of major programs and prepares students for graduate study and/or careers in the field of aging.

Twenty-four semester credits, including:

Select at least one of the following:3
Aging and the Aged
Death and Bereavement
Select remaining credits from the following:21
Biology of Humans
Human Nutrition
Human Anatomy and Physiology II
Communication Changes and Disorders of the Older Adult
Health Economics
Overview of the U.S. Health Care System
Multidisciplinary Perspectives on Aging
Brain: Introduction to Neuroscience
Wellness: Food for Fitness
Navigating Health Care
Body, Mind, Spirit Wellness
Ethics of Health Care
Human Development
Psychology of Adulthood and Aging
Psychology of Religion
Sociology of Family
Social Gerontology
Aging and the Aged
Death and Bereavement

Up to three credits from Directed Studies, Independent Study, or Special Topics courses that focus on gerontological issues may be applied to the minor with approval from the Gerontology minor advisor.

Program Learning Outcomes 

Students completing this program will be expected to meet the following outcomes:

  • Illustrate the multidisciplinary nature of the human aging process.
  • Differentiate between myths and realities of the aging process.
  • Discuss key issues impacting older people (e.g. social policies/programs, ethical concerns, health care).