Gerontology, Minor
Coordinator
Adelle Williams
Gerontology is an interdisciplinary specialization that focuses on aging and the aging process. This specialization is designed to enhance the understanding of aging and enrich interactions among generations. It is a valuable adjunct for those preparing to work directly with, or indirectly for, older persons. Employment opportunities for students who have academic preparation in gerontology are available in community agencies, long term care facilities, hospitals, assisted living facilities, hospices, retirement villages, senior centers, and mental health facilities among others. The program is open to students in any major.
Students conduct an internship in an organization which provides services to older adults and students actively participate in a service learning project. Opportunities to participate in campus and community activities are available.
Sigma Phi Omega, the national gerontology honorary society recognized students’ exemplary scholastic accomplishments in the field of aging. Undergraduate and graduate students are eligible to apply. The Anne Bicknell Scholarship is offered (based upon available funding) and an application, essay and references are required.
ADVISEMENT
Students planning to complete the program in gerontology will declare a major within a department. Major responsibility for advisement will rest within this department. However, the coordinator will assist students in the selection of gerontology courses and internship sites to fulfill the requirements for the minor in gerontology. Students must assume responsibility for fulfilling all requirements for graduation.
To access Minor Requirements, please view the Curriculum Guide tab.
PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES
- Communicate proficiently using reading, writing, speaking, listening, data (research) multimedia, computers, group process, and the knowledge base of gerontology, to lead individual and group programs that incorporate gerontology principles for a health and diverse population. (UWO #1)
- Identify, define, and describe biological, psychological, and social concepts and theories of aging accurately using theoretical concepts to interpret and analyze information, solve problems, and gain new insights into gerontological issues. (UWO #2, 3, 4)
- Select and administer appropriate gerontology assessments that evaluate a wide range of gerontology components that enhance the quality of living and maintain functional capacity of older adults. (UWO #5)
- Articulate the influence of ethics and values on ideas and actions. Take responsibility for ethical conduct displaying sensitivity for diverse cultural perspectives in the field of gerontology. Understand the impact of social and cultural contexts on the aging process in the United States and internationally. Design interventions consistent with multicultural traditions in individual families and within ethnic communities; and appreciate the contributions that our aging persons make to each other, their families, and society. (UWO #2, 8, 9)
- Value and understand the importance of lifelong wellness activities in the maintenance of functioning for all older adults. Utilize this knowledge to assess, intervene, and enhance their quality of life and improve functioning. (UWO #5, 7)
- Demonstrate knowledge, skills, attitudes, and confidence to function at entry-level in employment in the field of aging within a chosen profession. Take initiative for identifying and solving problems, and pursuing opportunities for continued professional and personal growth. (UWO #1, 2,3, 4, 10)
RELATED LINKS
CURRICULUM GUIDE
GPA REQUIREMENT
Minor GPA: 2.0 or higher
MINOR REQUIREMENTS
- Students must complete at least 6 credit hours in their minor from SRU
- A minimum of 6 credit hours must be upper division (courses numbered 300 and above)
- A minor shall be no fewer than 18 credits.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| Student must complete at least one content course from each block below, plus two additional courses from any of the three blocks. | 15 | |
| Gerontology Courses | ||
| Aging and the Older Person (Required) | ||
| Women and Aging | ||
| Seminar in Gerontology | ||
| Independent Study | ||
| Health/Science Courses | ||
| Nutrition and Health | ||
| Selected Topics | ||
| Biomechanics of Individuals with Disabilities | ||
| Recreational Therapy for Older Adults | ||
| Psychology/Sociology Courses | ||
| Death and Dying | ||
| Sociology of Aging | ||
| Psychology of Aging | ||
| Internship | ||
| GERT 450 | Gerontology Internship (Required) 1 | 3 |
| Total Hours | 18 | |
- 1
Prerequisite – must have 9 hours of GERT courses
- *
Some courses may require pre-requisites. Please see course descriptions to determine if there are any pre-requisites for that specific course.
Important Curriculum Guide Notes
This Curriculum Guide is provided to help SRU students and prospective students better understand their intended major curriculum. Enrolled SRU students should note that the My Rock Audit may place already-earned and/or in progress courses in different, yet valid, curriculum categories. Enrolled SRU students should use the My Rock Audit Report and materials and information provided by their faculty advisers to ensure accurate progress towards degree completion. The information on this guide is current as of the date listed. Students are responsible for curriculum requirements at the time of enrollment at the University.
PASSHE - Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Institutions
MINOR IN GERONTOLOGY (98A)/CIM 207
UCC 02.25.2025
This program is effective as of Summer 2025
Revised 09.22.2025