While many of the gerontology courses deal with specific issues and problems associated with aging, all of the courses reflect the philosophy of lifelong growth and emphasize the strengths in later life. Research will be a major focus in the expansion of activities within the Gerontology Program. Community service programs for older Americans are provided through the Institute of Gerontology. Career opportunities in the field of aging vary tremendously with respect to geographical area, salaries, and settings. Gerontology students who have obtained the Master of Arts degree or the Certificate in conjunction with undergraduate or graduate degrees in business, psychology, social work, counseling, biology, and related areas should be eligible for many different careers.
Gerontologists are concerned with aging both as a normal part of life and as a potential problem.
They are also concerned with how aging people are affected by their social environment. The uniqueness of gerontology is that it is interdisciplinary, bringing together the efforts of various fields concerned with the causes and consequences of growing old. It involves not only basic disciplines, such as sociology, counseling, psychology, political science, pharmacy, and biology, but also applied service-related disciplines, such as social work, home economics, business, public administration, adult education, and economics. In addition, gerontology encompasses such health professions as medicine, nursing, dentistry, public health, recreational and occupational therapy, and physical therapy. The 39 semester-hour degree program provides an interdisciplinary approach to understanding aging.