Overview

The Graduate Certificate in Aging Studies is offered through a customizable 8-week curriculum that is designed and tailored for working professionals interested in beginning or advancing a career in the field of aging and human services. Faculty are nationally and internationally recognized experts in areas such as human longevity, aging-in-place, marital and family relations, long-term care, and cognitive and nutritional health.

Coursework covers many topics, including adult development and aging; family systems; care providers; physical, mental and social changes; economics; nutrition and physical activity; and environments and public policy.

Taken entirely online in 8-week course sessions, you can balance family and work while pursuing your career goals and earning your graduate certificate. The 8-week format has been developed for student success. Data shows increased course success rates, persistence from semester to semester, and higher graduation rates when students can finish courses more quickly. It can be the difference that keeps students in the program despite their complicated schedules.

Successful completion of this certificate program requires 15 credit hours (five courses) of graduate-level coursework. Credit hours are transferable to additional graduate degree programs, including the MS in Aging Studies.

Coursework

Courses in this fully online program are offered through IDEA, a higher education alliance. We facilitate peer-to-peer collaboration and community building using technology.

Required Courses (6 credit hours):

• HDFS 5413: Aging in Human Development
• HDFS 5403: Foundations in Integrative Aging Studies

Elective (select 9 credit hours):

• EDHS 5543: Interdisciplinary Perspectives in Environments in Aging
• HDFS 5493: Aging and Diverse Families
• NSCI 5323: Physical Health, Nutrition, Wellness and Active Aging
• HDFS 5203: Family Systems
• EDHS 5533: Aging Policy and Advocacy
• EDHS 5633: Applied Research Methods and Evaluation of Aging Programs
• REMS 5953: Statistical Methods in Education
• EDHS 5240: Master’s Creative Component
• HDFS 5110: Directed Study in HDFS
• HDFS 5400: Professional Seminar in Gerontology

Admissions Requirements and Deadlines

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but it is strongly encouraged to apply at least three months prior to the preferred starting term. Applicants will be notified of admission status within four to six weeks of submission.

To apply to the program, submit the following:

• Graduate College application
• Transcripts from all previously attended institutions (undergraduate degree from an accredited university with a minimum 3.0 GPA required; admission with qualifications may be considered)
• Professional goal statement
• Academic vita/resume
• Three professional letters of recommendation

Cost and Assistance

Cost for on-campus enrollment

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