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Masters Degree in Gerontology

The Master of Geriatrics and Gerontology is a graduate program that prepares students to develop the products and services needed to serve the aging segments of the population. As the nation's population continues to age, this job sector grows in important. The students enrolled in a Master’s of Geriatrics and Gerontology program are prepared for the unique role of understanding the needs of elderly dependents and developing the healthcare plans for serving them.

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Structure and Duration of the Degree Program

The Master of Geriatrics and Gerontology is designed to be a one year degree if pursued full-time. Most opt to pursue it part-time and thus take longer. Students enroll in several related courses and attempt to complete a relevant final project.

Highlights of the coursework

The coursework of the Master of Geriatrics and Gerontology draws upon diverse disciplines such as psychology and economics to understand the needs of this segment of the population. The emphasis in the coursework is not on rote learning or formulas but on adopting a social science approach to analyzing demographic needs. The coursework is project-based that allows students to work in teams and consider ways to deliver the best products and services.

Admission criteria and graduation requirements

Those who have completed an undergraduate degree are typically eligible to apply. Graduation requires maintaining a passing average in all classes and the final project.

Career prospects and average salary

There is a demand for such graduates in both the public and private sector. If you choose to become a healthcare social worker, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that as of May 2012, you can earn a media wage of $49,830. However, a master's qualification and work experience can boost your annual income across the 90th percentile level of $74,030.

How Long Does It Take to Complete a Masters Degree in Gerontology?

Many institutes, like the University of Southern California, National University, California State University Long Beach and Simon Fraser University, are offering Gerontology programs. Students can enroll in a Master of Science (M.S) in Applied Gerontology which can be completed within 1 to 2 years. If you are passionate about improving the well-being of the older adults, then this degree is ideal for you.

What Are the Requirements to Complete a Masters Degree in Gerontology?

Students studying the Master of Science (M.S) in Applied Gerontology have to complete around 36 credits. They have to study a range of courses such as Physiology of Development and Aging, Theories of Aging, Life Span Developmental Psychology, Life Span Developmental Sociology, Mental Health and Illness in Later Life, and Social Policy and Aging. The program prepares students to work in a number of settings such as healthcare and long-term institutions and human service organizations.

How Much Can I Make after Completing a Masters Degree in Gerontology?

After completing a Masters degree in Gerontology, students can work as Social Workers, Social and Community Service Managers, and Medical and Health Services Managers. As per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Social and Community Service Managers earned an annual median wage of $ 65,320 and an hourly median wage of $31.41. It is expected that there will be a generation of 21,900 more jobs in this field from 2018 to 2028.

Frequently Asked Question(s)

Q:Which courses are included in the Geriatrics & Gerontology Masters education program?

A:The Masters in Geriatrics and Gerontology includes a bunch of specialization courses such as Counseling Older Adults and Their Families, Introduction to Perspectives on Aging, Social Policy and Aging, The Aging Family, Stress, Health, and Aging, and Professional Issues in Gerontology.

Q:Which schools are considered as the best for master’s geriatrics degree programs?

A:There are many nursing schools and medical schools that offer accredited masters degree programs in the field of geriatrics. Students can consider the following schools for enrollment in this degree program: Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York, University of California, Duke University, John Hopkins University, University of California, University of Michigan, University of Washington, and the university of Pittsburgh.

Q:Why is race and ethnicity an important part of master in gerontology education?

A:Students completing their master in gerontology will be required to deal with a course on race and ethnicity. This course is usually worth three credits and deals with the concept of aging in regards to race and ethnicity. This course takes a number of factors under consideration such as regional, social and cultural aspects to understand the process of aging. It also compares social differences that define aging in different cultures and ethnicities.

Q:With a masters in geriatrics degree, what kind of job opportunities can I explore?

A:Geriatrics basically deals with social and clinical services provided to elderly patients. A master's degree is one of the highest qualifications one can earn in this filed. You can look forward to a number of career opportunities, working as allied health professionals, geriatrics nurse, social worker, physical therapist, or pharmacist. The income level you can earn will depend upon your specialization area, work experience, and certification.

Q:can I apply for Geriatrics and Gerontology masters degree?

A:Yes, there are a few requirements which need to be fulfilled in order to apply for geriatrics and gerontology masters' degree. Usually those who have a bachelor's degree in geriatrics and gerontology or a related field can apply. The coursework of the post graduate program includes a wide range of disciplines such as psychology and economics.

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