B.S. in Gerontology
a convenient program with in-Person and online courses that address the needs of today's students
Gerontology is the study of the biological, psychological and sociological aspects of aging. It is a multidisciplinary field of study that draws on the expertise of many disciplines, including business, nursing, communication, the arts, sociology and psychology. This field of study combines the knowledge from multiple disciplines, which afford a broad perspective and deeper understanding of the conditions that affect the older adult.
Why Earn Your B.S. in Gerontology?
There are multiple career opportunities for those that study Gerontology. When students engage in either the Gerontology major or Gerontology minor, they can tailor their coursework to meet their academic and career goals.
With this major, students will be able to:
- Meet the high demand of increasing adults over the age of 65 in the U.S. and globally, which creates more opportunities for services and programs designed to meet their needs.
- Work with older adults as clients, patients, partners, employers and employees, regardless of the chosen career.
- Engage with unique older adults who will share their lifetime of experiences.
About the Program
- Students will learn the basic physiological, sociological and psychological changes that accompany aging.
- Students will be exposed to the social injustices that affect the older adult.
- Students will learn to understand communication strategies associated with aging.
- Students will be exposed to the challenges associated with finance and housing management for the older adult.
- Students will be exposed to the increasing demand for older adult programs in the community and across all disciplines.
- Students will gain the unique perspective of the individuals with whom you will engage throughout the program.
A customized internship is offered for those that major in gerontology. This internship prepares you for your career in gerontology.
As a part of the Gerontology studies at SXU, students are mentored and guided through a research initiative and the development of a poster presentation for the annual SXU Research Expo, a great addition for one's resume.
The Interdisciplinary Gerontology major/degree completion studies program is designed to prepare individuals with an understanding of the foundations of gerontology, thus positioning students in various disciplines for specialized career opportunities. The diversity and complexity of older adults and their needs and preferences will be explored from multiple perspectives. Foundational courses will include studies from various disciplines and prepare students for careers that benefit from comprehensive knowledge of the older adult. Students will acquire knowledge of the impact of culture, ethnicity, financial capacity, gender, spirituality, health and wellness, and quality of life on older adults. The Interdisciplinary Gerontology major requirement is 30 credit hours. Please note that the B.S. degree in Gerontology requires a total of 120 credit hours, including general education requirements.
Why should prospective students choose SXU for their degree?
- By studying the biological, physiological, and sociological aspects of aging, you will gain valuable insight into the concerns of growing older, including health risks, economic impact, and social inequities.
- The diversity and complexity of the needs of the older adult are explored from multiple perspectives.
- Foundational courses involve students from various disciplines and aids students in strengthening skills in teamwork and mutual respect.
- Students will have a comprehensive knowledge base about the impact of culture, ethnicity, financial capacity, gender, spirituality, health, wellness and quality of life of older adults
- Students will understand communication strategies associated with aging.
- Students will learn about the increasing demands for older adult programs in the community.
- Students will leave SXU with a B.S. in gerontology as a well-rounded professional in a growing field.
- With core values of service, integrity and excellence exemplified throughout campus, students will become more effective citizens and assets to their communities.
The Interdisciplinary Gerontology Studies program offers a minor that examines the diversity and complexity of the older adult using a venue of varied disciplines and perspectives, including biology, psychology, sociology, spirituality, communication and nursing.
Students will acquire knowledge and understanding of the impact of culture, ethnicity, financial capacity, gender, spirituality, health and level of wellness on quality of life of older adults. They will cultivate critical awareness and ethical and political astuteness in a variety of settings that affect older adults. Students will participate as members of interdisciplinary teams encountering diverse cohorts of older adults.
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Contact the Office of Admission
- 773-298-3050
- Toll Free: 844-GOTO-SXU (844-468-6798)
- Fax: 773-298-3076
- Email: admissionFREESXU
- M-F: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Meet the Faculty
Mary Tiberg
Asst Professor/Coordinator
Phone: 773-298-3179
Email: tiberg@sxu.edu