Report an accessibility problem

Gerontology (Grad Certificate)

Gerontology (Grad Certificate)

- INACTIVE

Academic programs / Graduate degrees / Gerontology (Grad Certificate)

Gerontology, Human Services, OLDER, aging

Program description
Degree awarded: Certificate  Gerontology (certificate)

The program focuses on individual's experiences with aging, as well as broader social concerns about an aging population. The graduate certificate program in gerontology prepares professionals in virtually any field to help older people and their families make the most of their lives. As the number of people who are older continues to grow, there will be an increasing need for professionals in public and private organizations to provide a variety of social and commercial services to older adults, who will represent a variety of ethnic cultures and socioeconomic groups.

Students completing the graduate certificate in gerontology will have a broad knowledge of the wide range of issues affecting older adults today and will be able to apply their knowledge to specific circumstances, including social policy, family issues, health and wellness and business concerns. They will understand the connections between the aging person and their macro- and micro-environments, and how to enhance engagement among all three.

At a glance
  • STEM-OPT extension eligible: No

Degree requirements

21 credit hours

The graduate certificate in gerontology consists of 21 credit hours. Students must earn a 3.00 GPA or higher in course work completed for the certificate. Courses with a grade below a "D" (1.00) are not accepted.

Required Courses:

ALD 505 Perspectives on Aging (3)
ALD 520 Health Aspects of Aging Adults or ALD 540 Public Policy Issues and Aging (3)*
ALD 584 Internship or ALD 592 Research (3)
Four electives (12)

*The other course may be taken as an elective

Admission requirements

General university admission requirements:

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
U.S. applicants | International applicants | English proficiency

The graduate certificate in gerontology is open to individuals who have earned a bachelor's degree. Students enrolled in the certificate program may simultaneously pursue an advanced degree in another academic unit. Students must submit the Graduate College application and official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate course work, as well as the application for the graduate certificate in gerontology, which includes a personal statement indicating professional goals and two letters of recommendation.

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is WRGP (Western Regional Graduate Program)?
The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.

click back to top