Celebrating our elders
Study the scientific and social transitions and challenges related to aging
As the average age in the U.S. goes up, it’s more important than ever to understand the natural aging process and the impacts for individuals, families, and society at large. With FLC’s Gerontology certificate program, you’ll have opportunities to intern with regional agencies that work with older adults and graduate with the credentials you’ll need to help the elderly and their families make informed choices.
"FLC’s Gerontology certificate program is special because it provides students with an interdisciplinary background, access to a diverse elderly population, and a depth and breadth necessary to transfer learning into action."
For students and community members
To apply
You may complete this certificate program in as little as two semesters, and either pursue it concurrently with your bachelor’s degree, or enroll solely for the certificate. Either way, you’ll be well-prepared to meet the needs of an aging population.
You will be asked to submit supporting documents when you apply for the Gerontology Certificate.
*Please note: seeking the Gerontology Certificate alone will not qualify you for any state or federal financial aid.
Simply add the certificate as you would declare a major or minor.
Coursework
You’ll take three core courses and internship, and then select two of the eleven elective options to complete the certificate. Take a peek at the courses below, or go to the catalog for more detail.
Develop an understanding of how we study and communicate about health at the level of populations. Learn about community health problems, and the systems we use to manage health as well as the disparities in those systems. This course typically includes field trips, guest speakers and a service-learning experience in community health. Go to course catalog.
Study the physical, cognitive, and social development of humans across the lifespan, from conception to death, with special attention to the influence context has on development. Go to course catalog.
Look at the social structures that influence an individual’s aging process. You’ll examine demographic, economic, political, environmental and organizational factors that shape societal and individual views on aging. Go to course catalog.
Partner up with an area agency in the field of human services or sociological research to gain hands-on experience in the practice of sociology. Go to course catalog.
Choose from courses in anthropology, biology, gender & sexuality studies, history, psychology, philosophy, and sociology to tailor your study to your interests. See the list in the course catalog.
Listen to the stories. Glean the wisdom. At times, ease the discomfort. Bring your passion for social service work to an elder population at a time when our society needs it more than ever.