• Gerontology is the study of later life. As a social science, it focuses on social aspects of the aging experience. The world population is growing older. For the first time in human history, there are now more people age 60 and over than age 5 and under. The effects of population aging societies affect everyone. Gerontology majors engage in critical, multidisciplinary analysis of aging and develop ideas and skills that can be integrated with other areas of study such as business, policy, health, and many others. Students learn about policies and programs for older persons, how to conduct age-related research, issues related to health and aging, and many other important topics that influence societies, organizations, communities, and individuals.
  • Students conduct applied research as part of their coursework and have additional opportunities to work on independent research with faculty.
  • Based on their interest, students choose one of three track areas: applied research, aspiring health professions, or policies and programs.