Taking more than one independent study course requires permission of the Gerontology Education Committee. Students interested in developing a Portfolio in Gerontology must complete an application form which will be reviewed by the Gerontology Portfolio Education Committee. The application must also include the signature of the student's Graduate Advisor. An integral part of the application process is the submission of a one-page essay describing the importance of the work in gerontology to the student's doctoral program and career goals. Students who are accepted for the portfolio program will choose or be assigned a Gerontology Faculty member who will assist in selecting appropriate coursework in gerontology and will monitor the student's progress through the Portfolio Program.
Students can enter the portfolio program at any point in their doctoral work.
Students in the Portfolio Program in Gerontology must attend four Seminars in Gerontology. A scholarly report must be submitted to the Gerontology Faculty, and be approved before the program is complete. Students accepted into the Gerontology Portfolio Program must keep the Gerontology office updated each year on their progress through approved courses. Students should meet each semester with a faculty in Gerontology to update the faculty regarding progress on their portfolio.