May 03, 2024  
2023-2024 Graduate Catalog 
    
2023-2024 Graduate Catalog

Gerontology, M.A.


College of Behavioral and Community Sciences  
Department: School of Aging Studies 

 


Gerontology is the study of the process of human aging in all its aspects: physical, psychological, and social. The demographic imperative of an increasingly older age distribution will require graduates who have acquired an integrated base of knowledge and skills to deal with the complex challenges that will confront individuals, societies, and nations in the coming decades. The M.A. in Gerontology program emphasizes educating students who, in their professional careers, will work to sustain or improve the quality of life of older people. The ultimate goal of this program is to educate the next generation of practitioners and program personnel in the field of aging and gerontology and to prepare interested students for doctoral programs in aging and related fields.

Admission Information

Must meet University Admission and English Proficiency requirements as well as requirements for admission to the major, listed below.

  • The GRE examination is optional for applicants who either have a 3.25 or higher GPA for all work completed as an undergraduate student, a 3.50 or higher in a completed master’s degree program, or a completed doctoral degree (including professional degrees such as the JD and MD), all from an accredited institution.
  • For students submitting a GRE score, a preferred GRE score of at least 149V (41st percentile), 142Q (16th percentile), 3.5 A.W.
  • Statement of Purpose in pursuing a MA in Gerontology
  • Current Resume
  • 2 letters of references

Curriculum Requirements


Total Minimum Hours - 30

  • Core courses - 9 credit hours
  • Electives - 18 credit hours
  • Capstone - 3 credit hours

Electives (18 Credit Hours Minimum)


The remaining 18 hours of coursework beyond the required Core coursework and Capston class must be selected from other graduate courses in Gerontology. Under certain circumstances, students may be able to substitute other graduate classes as part of the elective courses required for the degree with permission from the Graduate Director.

Capstone Requirement (3 Credit Hours)


The Capstone may include an internship, portfolio, or project, selected in consultation with the Graduate Director. Following completion of the necessary coursework, students enroll in GEY 6910 Directed Research , and complete a capstone applied research project designed to integrate key knowledge, concepts, and information in the field of gerontology. This course is pass/fail and must be taken and passed by all students in the M.A. major to meet requirements for the degree.

Comprehensive Exam


Students complete the Capstone requirement in lieu of a comprehensive exam.

Internship


Internships are available for students local to USF who need practical experience in the field of aging.  Please discuss with the Program Director early in your program of study to determine if an internship is needed to meet professional goals.