Purpose
Today’s older Americans are living longer, having lower rates of disability, achieving higher levels of education, and enjoying a higher standard of living than their predecessors. By 2015, individuals over the age of 60 will comprise over 20% of the American population. (Source: U.S. Populations Projections for Selected Age Groups by State: 2005-2030, an online publication of the US Administration on Aging.)
In order to prepare a qualified workforce to address the needs of our aging populace, WKU is offering an online Graduate Certificate in Aging Studies.
The knowledge and skills acquired through this certificate program will enable graduates to integrate gerontology into their discipline and to provide services for an older population. Through the use of interdisciplinary curriculum, students will be provided with a comprehensive overview of the field of aging studies.
Graduate Certificate in Aging Studies Objectives
Students who complete a Graduate Certificate in Aging Studies will:
- Function effectively in administrative and leadership roles in organizations serving older adults;
- Apply knowledge of aging policies, programs, and services to advocate effectively on behalf of older adults;
- Apply knowledge to recognize and respond to the needs of older adults within the community;
- Think critically and utilize problem solving skills to address organizational problems
This 12-credit hour graduate certificate program is offered completely online. This program is designed for a specific number of students (cohort) to move through the program coursework together, taking the same classes, and building peer relationships.
Core Requirements (9 hours)
- GERO 501 — Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Aging
- GERO 502 — Policy Foundations of Aging Services
- GERO 503 — Adult Program Development & Change
- Elective (3 hours)
The required elective course will be chosen to meet the needs of the overall cohort group. The course will be from the field of Gerontology, Adult Education, Communication Disorders, Consumer and Family Science, Health Care Administration, Public Health, Philosophy, Psychology, or Public Administration.
Minimum Acceptance Requirements
The minimum requirements for acceptance into the Graduate Certificate in Aging Studies program are:
- A Bachelor’s Degree
- A bachelor’s degree from a college or university of recognized standing (accredited).
- Application & Fee
- Students seeking a graduate degree must complete the online Application for Admission (Form A). The completed form along with a one-time application fee of $40.00 (non-refundable) must be returned to the Graduate Studies Office.
- Transcript Record
- Graduates of accredited institutions other than WKU must submit an official transcript showing the completed degree to the Office of Graduate Studies.
Program Contact Information
Dr. Dana Burr BradleyWKU Director, Center for Gerontology
1906 College Heights Blvd. #11038
Bowling Green, KY 42101
(270) 745-2356
dana.bradley@wku.edu
Application Contact Information
Amy FitzpatrickWKU Cohort Programs Specialist
Division of Extended Learning & Outreach
2355 Nashville Road
Bowling Green, KY 42101
(270) 745-2710
amy.fitzpatrick@wku.edu
