Gerontology/Geriatrics Graduate Certificate

View information for the Department of Sociology and Gerontology .

Cathy Wong, Ph.D., Adviser

Office:  Bizzini Hall 213
Phone:  (209) 667-3041

The purpose of the Gerontology/Geriatrics Graduate Certificate is to offer post baccalaureate educational opportunities for students, preparing them for professional careers serving older adults and the elderly. The certificate program offers coursework from five departments that address issues in the field of gerontology from a variety of discipline perspectives. The certificate program is designed to meet the needs of professionals working with an aging population such as gaining a deeper appreciation of the needs of this population, issues facing the elderly from medical concerns to end of life issues, societal dynamics impacting their roles and perspectives in society, as well as potential accounting concerns and elder abuse.

The following are expected outcomes for the Gerontology/Geriatrics Graduate Certificate program:

1. Develop understanding of the social, economic, medical, and psychological factors that shape the institutions that serve the aged and that shape the aging person’s experience.
2. Learn skills to be an effective advocate for individuals and their families, as well as for programs designed for the aging and elderly.
3. Communicate effectively orally and in writing with the aging community and with professional audiences that serve the aged.
4. Understand the dynamic forces of cultural diversity within the aging populations and institutions that serve them.
5. Understand and demonstrate the ability to use culturally appropriate models and practices for supporting older adults.

Admission Criteria and Procedures

Admission into the Gerontology/Geriatrics Graduate Certificate will be limited to those who meet the eligibility requirements for post-baccalaureate unclassified students. Applicants must have completed a baccalaureate degree and/or master’s degree from an accredited college or university, having obtained a minimum grade point average of 2.5 in the last 60 graded semester units attempted. Students cannot enroll in courses for the certificate program prior to their admission to the University and to the program. Transfer credits normally are not applicable to this certificate program. Students must remain in good standing throughout the certificate program and adhere to graduate academic requirements for program continuance and completion. Students enrolled in the certificate program are eligible for loans through financial aid as per federal and university regulations.