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Gerontology Print
Certificate Level I
Gerontology		Campus Availability(AllBSL
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What is Gerontology?  Gerontology is the multi-disciplinary study of aging which encompasses the biological, psychological, sociological, spiritual and economic aspects of aging.

Why study Gerontology? People are living longer than ever before. The population of those over 65 will more than double by 2030. This means one of the challenges facing the future will be providing care for increasing numbers of the aged. As a result, analysts predict an expansion of additional jobs in gerontology and related fields in the coming years. Gerontology offers excellent career opportunities in a field of growing social and economic significance. Employees who fill these jobs will need a background in gerontology in order to effectively respond to the specific needs of older adults.  older gentleman

A gerontology certificate is advantageous to many professionals:

  • Nurses, nursing assistants and physicians who provide care for the aging population
  • Social workers who plan to work with older adults and their families in residential care, long-term care, hospitals, clinics, and community settings
  • Occupational, recreation and physical therapists who help to optimize the older population’s ability to function well in their daily living and working environments
  • Adult children of aging parents, older adults and general public who have a growing need for understanding the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of aging

The Gerontology Certificate prepares students for jobs in adult day care centers, 55+ programs at hospitals and banks, elder hostels, and senior academic opportunities operated through colleges and universities, social service agencies, and recreation/leisure industry, which includes senior tours and senior centers.

Students learn strategies for enhancing the quality of life and life expectancy. No matter what your area of study, a Gerontology Certificate may make you more marketable to a future employer. Increased life expectancy means more opportunities for careers with older Americans. It is projected that the number of Americans over the age of 65 will double by 2030. This population increase is expected to result in greater demand for services and professionals trained to meet the special needs of the older adult. If you want to capitalize on some of the opportunities this presents for your future career, consider the Gerontology Certification.

 

Course Information: Howard College Catalog

 

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