Students receive a substantial grounding in theory, methods, and applied aspects of gerontology.
In addition to the individual attention received in small classes, students have opportunities to become involved in faculty research and publications. In cooperation with the Virginia Tech Center for Gerontology, students have the opportunity to earn a degree-based Graduate Certificate in Gerontology or a Post Baccalaureate Certificate. The certificate program, like the Adult Development and Aging option, is interdisciplinary and offer students meaningful practical experience. Assistantships in the Department, Adult Day Services and Center for Gerontology also contribute to professional development in teaching, research, and administration. Students are encouraged to become actively involved in local, state, regional, national, and international professional societies in gerontology and to make presentations at conferences.