Careers in Geriatrics and Gerontology

What is ‘Geriatrics & Gerontology’?

Top Schools Offering Geriatrics and Gerontology Degrees

Kaplan University Online

The fields of gerontology and geriatrics deal with providing physical and mental care to elderly people and include the biological and psychological study of aging. Professionals working in this field also examine the changing social dynamics and sociological changes associated with aging. Gerontology is a vast field that includes the study of various biological, physical and mental changes in older people.  Subjects such as biology, sociology, psychology and therapy are the main areas of gerontology.

Geriatrics is mainly concerned with healthcare and providing medical assistance to the aging population, and as such is also considered a sub-field of gerontology. Due to the rapidly increasing number of elderly people in the United States, and around the world, numerous opportunities are arising for professionals in geriatrics and gerontology. In addition to people who aspire to become social welfare workers, the fields of gerontology and geriatrics also attract nurses, therapists and other aspiring healthcare workers.


What programs are offered?

Numerous university degrees and certification programs in geriatrics and gerontology are offered to students across the country. These include associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate degrees in geriatrics and gerontology or related fields. While there are no special educational prerequisites for these programs except a high school degree or GED, people aspiring to make careers in geriatrics and gerontology need to have a compassionate nature and should be able to put other people’s needs before their own. They need to genuinely care for the older population, and understand their patients’ specific needs. Additionally, good communication skills, basic medical knowledge, physical therapy skills and first aid training go a long way in this field. Most students who enter this field normally start off with an associate’s degree in gerontology, which is a two year program offered at most universities and community colleges. This program includes a number of general education courses in addition to courses in basic healthcare, hygiene and sanitation, pharmacology, drug usage, sociology and psychology. Students enrolled in a four year bachelor’s degree program obtain extensive instruction in biology, sociology, social work and psychology. Students interested in further education can go on to obtain a master’s or doctorate (Ph. D.) degree, which focuses more on field work and research. Specializations in these programs include healthcare administration, social work, family services, sociology, psychology or geriatrics.


What career opportunities are available?

After graduating with a degree in geriatrics and gerontology, people can explore a variety of exciting career options. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of elderly people in the United States will be at its highest over the next decade, and will continue to grow. This will ensure a sustained growth in careers in geriatrics and gerontology, which are expected to increase by 20% through 2020. From entry level positions in nursing homes and clinics to positions in large hospitals, social welfare organizations, charity organizations and government bodies – hundreds of career opportunities are available in geriatrics and gerontology. Latest research indicates average starting salaries at $76,000 per year, which increase to more than $200,000 per year for experienced professionals. While fields such as marketing and business administration become over-saturated due to an ample supply of graduates, the field of geriatrics and gerontology is set to guarantee a rewarding career with excellent advancement opportunities.