Certificate in Geriatrics and Gerontology
Overview of the field
Geriatrics is the branch of medicine that focuses on the health and care of the elderly while gerontology is the study of the ageing process along with its physiological and psychological aspects.
Certificate in Geriatrics and Gerontology Programs
Keiser University Graduate School
Penn Foster Career School
National American University
University of Illinois at Chicago
Structure and duration of the program
A Certificate of Geriatrics and Gerontology is completed after three courses worth 30 credit points. These courses are usually taken one at a time and the program normally takes around one year to complete.
Highlights of the degree program
The coursework prepares students for working with the elderly and understanding different aspects of ageing. Some of the common courses offered as a part of the Certificate of Geriatrics and Gerontology are:
Elderly action research
Social and economic implications of ageing
Concepts and practices with the elderly
Ageing and family
The purpose is to understand these aspects and minimize the psychological damage.
Admission criteria and graduation requirements
Admission into a Certificate of Geriatrics and Gerontology doesn’t require a particular degree or work experience but prior knowledge of the field is a huge plus. It is a good program for you if you have a focused ambition of working with the elderly. To graduate, 30 credits are to be completed which can then be transferred to a diploma completed in another year.
Careers prospects and salary
A Certificate of Geriatrics and Gerontology prepares students to work in some of the following fields: elder housing
Adult day care
Companies marketing to elderly
Assisted living
Geriatric care management
Jobs in the field are expected to increase with the increasing number of elderly in the country.