Overview
The Graduate Certificate in Gerontology allows students to examine aging from a bio-psycho social perspective. It is designed to be an interdisciplinary field of study concerned with the physical, mental, and social aspects of life and aging. The program provides a knowledge base in human aging for those whose work or personal responsibilities include contact or working with aging adults.
The certificate program requires 18 semester hours: 12 semester hours are core courses in gerontology, and the remaining six semester hours can be selected from any electives related to your area of professional/personal interest.
Key Features of the Gerontology Certificate program include:
• Complete all six courses in a face-to-face, online or a hybrid format—combining both methods.
• Transfer the 18 credits in this certificate to the M.S. in Gerontology.
• Tailor the program to your interests or career goals through electives.
• Social workers in PA and MD, and psychologists in PA, can earn CEUs.
Why McDaniel
• Small class size and individual attention from professors.
• Offers convenient schedules to fit your busy schedule.
• Highly competitive tuition.
Admissions Requirements
Initial Admission
• Completed application for graduate study
• Submit the non-refundable application fee
• Official transcripts verifying completion of an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university. No minimum GPA required.
Certificate Requirements
• Successfully complete all six courses in the program with a “B” or better.
Courses
All students complete the 18 credit hours: |
| GRN 501 | Interdisciplinary Approaches to Gerontology
This course provides an introduction to the bio-psycho-social changes of aging. The course will implement a life course framework examining changing age structures, the aging of the individual and society. Included in discussion will be theories and research exploring aging from an individual and societal perspective. Stereotyping, age discrimination, social policies, and career opportunities will also be addressed. | 3 Credits |
| GRN 506 | Biology of Aging
This course examines the physiological, genetic, nutritional, and other biological aspects of the aging human body. Course will include the impact of disease, stress, neurological and endocrinological change, as well as research being done at the molecular, cellular, metabolic, and population levels to increase and promote the heath of the aging population. | 3 Credits |
| GRN 507 | Psychosocial Aspects of Aging
This course examines the connection between the sociological forces and psychological challenges involved in the process of aging. A developmental perspective addressing infancy through old age is presented, with an emphasis on the changes, which occur in later adulthood. Issues such as ageism, retirement, elder abuse, and death and dying are considered. | 3 Credits |
| GRN 560 | Applications in Gerontology
Applications in Gerontology allows the student to choose from one of the following: internship, review of gerontological literature on a topic of interest, a practical project, research or teaching practicum. The student and his or her academic adviser will agree on the structure and criteria of the selection. The student will be required to work independently with supervision and advisement as necessary. | 3 Credits |
Elective Courses (choose two): |
| GRN 502 | Understanding and Combating Ageism
This course examine the origins and causes of ageism in our country. The effect of ageist attitudes in the workplace, customer care and care giving will be addressed. Potential ways of reducing its prevalence and consequences will be explored. | 3 Credits |
| GRN 505 | Public Policy and Aging
This course examines trends and the changing roles of local, state, and federal agencies in the planning, managing, and evaluation of programs in comprehensive, coordinated systems of service for older persons. | 3 Credits |
| GRN 508 | Nutrition and Aging
This course examines how nutritional requirements and metabolism are influence by the aging process. Dietary changes to offset the effects of aging and disease to improve the quality of life will be explored. Community and Institutional food programs will be discussed. | 3 Credits |
| GRN 509 | Sexuality and Aging
This course examines the physical, psychological, spiritual, and social aspects of sexuality in aging person. Attention will focus on the effects of physical illness, mental illness and pharmaceuticals as well as the social domains of living arrangements and both financial and social support systems as determinants of the older person’s sexual desire. | 3 Credits |
| GRN 510 | Geriatric Pharmacology
Students will learn about common medial and psychiatric conditions related to aging (e.g., diabetes, heart disease, elevated cholesterol, depression, anxiety, memory impairments, etc.) and corresponding pharmacological treatment options. Included will be a discussion of the FDA approval process for new drugs and review of existing medications. Drug interactions and other risks in the older population will be evaluated. Costs of medications will also be addressed as will programs aimed at reducing theses costs. | 3 Credits |
| GRN 551 | Special Studies in Gerontology
A special studies course specific to the discipline of geronotology developed in collaboration with the student and instructor, receiving the approval of academic adviser and Dean of Graduate and Professional Studies. The student and instructor agree to meet a minimum of five times for fifty minutes during the term of the course. An application for Special Studies Course with appropriate signatures must be submitted to the Registrar’s Office fully describing the project and final products to be evaluated. | 3.0 Credits |
| GRN 566 | Special Topics in Gerontology
This course will focus on various topics pertaining to the field of gerontology. A different topic is chosen for any given semester and will be fully described in additional information on the section listing in Archway. | 3 Credits |
Close
Faculty
Alva S. Baker, M.D., Director
The Center for the Study of Aging,
abaker@mcdaniel.edu
410-386-4609
Diane Martin, Ph.D., Academic Director
The Center for the Study of Aging
dbmartin@mcdaniel.edu
410-386-4618
Career Opportunities for Graduates
Completers of the graduate certificate in Gerontology can obtain managerial and administrative roles in the following industries and organizations:
• Community, human services and religious organizations
• Healthcare and long-term care institutions
• Local, state and federal agencies
• Retirement communities
• Academic and educational institutions
• Aging research institutions
• Business and industry
Important Dates
Application Deadlines
Fall Semester – August 1
Spring Semester – December 15
Summer Sessions – May 1
FAQs
1. Is this program offered 100% online?
Yes, we do have a version of the program that can be taken totally online.
2. Can I mix online and face-to-face classes?
Yes, please be sure to let your advisor know that you are planning to take courses both ways.
3. I started the program online (or) face-to-face. Can I switch to the other version of the program?
Yes, please be sure to consult with your advisor before doing so.
