Graduate Certificate in Aging Studies

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People are living longer and the number of older adults is increasing, along with the diversity of their needs and interests. By 2015, individuals over the age of 60 will comprise over 20% of the American population – a trend scene in many countries. The demand for professionals with expertise in aging is growing rapidly, and career opportunities are numerous and varied.

Students who complete a Graduate Certificate in Aging Studies will be prepared for administrative and leadership roles in organizations serving older adults.  Through this program students: gain an increased knowledge of aging policies, programs, and services; think critically and utilize problem solving skills to address organizational problems; and apply knowledge to recognize and respond to the needs of older adults within their community.

The Graduate Certificate in Aging Studies requires a minimum of 12 hours of credit hours. All core classes and many electives are available on-line in a flexible format.  For more information please contact the AHS department at 270-745-4352.

Minimum Requirements for Acceptance

The minimum requirement for acceptance into the Graduate Certificate in Aging program is a bachelor’s degree from a college or university of recognized standing.

 Application Procedures: NO GRE REQUIRED!

 Admission documents required:

•  Application & Fee: Students seeking a graduate degree must complete an on-line Application for Admission. This form is available from The Graduate School http://www.wku.edu/graduate/. Your completed application along with a onetime application fee (non-refundable) is required.

•  Transcript Record: Graduates of accredited institutions other than WKU must submit an official transcript showing the completed degree to The Graduate School.

 

Courses in Aging Studies

 The Graduate Certificate in Aging Studies requires a minimum of 12 hours of credit hours. All core classes and many electives are available on-line in a flexible format.

Required Core Courses (9 hours):

• GERO 501—Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Aging
• GERO 503—Policy Foundations of Aging Services
• GERO 505—Development & Change in Aging Programs

Elective Courses (3 hours)  

• GERO 510 Current Issues in Aging
• GERO 581 Global Aging
• GERO 590  Independent Study in Aging Studies
• ADED 520 Methods for Teaching Adults
• ADED 530 Program Development for Adults
• ADED 611 Adult Learning and Development
• CD 489G Geriatric Communication Disorders
• HMD 585 Nutrition for the Elderly
• HCA 540 Health Care Org & Management
• HCA 541 Strategic Mgt & Marketing Health Services
• HCA 571 Managed Care
• NURS 503 Advanced Health Assessment
• NURS 548 Primary Care: Adults
• PH 443G Health and Aging
• PH 444G Death Education 
• PH 564 Women's Health
• PHIL 426G Philosophy and Old Age
• PSYS 423G Psychology of Adult Life and Aging

 For more information, contact the Department of Applied Human Sciences, 270-745-4352.