Center for Molecular Medicine Building, Room 125
(775) 784-7557
Gerontology is a dynamic and innovative field in which students can pursue a wide range of topics and interests. Inherently, gerontology is interdisciplinary and transcends traditional career options. Careers in advertising and marketing, engineering, architecture, healthcare, social services, as well as recreation and leisure industries are just a few areas in which knowledge in gerontology can be applied.
The Gerontology Academic Program provides up-to-date knowledge on the physical, psychological, communicative, and social aspects of aging. Through faculty mentoring relationships that foster student research and critical thinking, student scholars are prepared to apply theoretical knowledge to age-related issues and problems facing a growing elder population. Since older adults represent such a large part of society, Gerontology is a vital area for all students - especially those who plan to work in fields related to human services, public health, public administration, nutrition, nursing, psychology, law, business, speech pathology, social work and many other professions. Through the interdisciplinary study of gerontology, students gain a broad base of knowledge about aging in the United States and international cultures, an understanding of the health and psycho-social aspects of aging, and an awareness of services that constitute the aging network.
For application, advisement and additional information please call (775) 784-7557, email gero@unr.edu or stop by either the Sanford Center for Aging located in the Center for Molecular Medicine Building, room 150 or the Division of Health Sciences Student Center located in the Orvis Building, Room 104. We invite you to visit our website at
http://www.unr.edu/sanford/programs/gap
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Students may select the gerontology certificate program to acquire a specialization in the field of aging that provides a foundation for professional development in many careers. The gerontology certificate program offers an interdisciplinary curriculum, provides a broad base of knowledge as it is applied to the aging process, examines issues of concern to the older adult in today’s society, and includes a practice component where students must apply theoretical knowledge in a community setting serving older adults.
Students are required to take 18 credits of core courses, including three credits of field experience that have been approved by the gerontology director. The remaining six credits are selected from the approved list of electives. Students are expected to enroll in the introductory course at the beginning of their program of study whereas field experience can only be taken after all other core courses have been completed. Students must meet with the gerontology coordinator prior to enrolling in field experience. Upon completing the gerontology certificate program, students participate in a professional poster presentation that focuses on their field experience and receive special recognition at the annual Celebration of Aging.