Gerontology is the study of human aging in all of its forms. Gerontologists need to have a broad understanding of aging in order to work with and for older adults.
UMSL's Gerontology Program equips students with the theoretical and evidence-based knowledge in order to succeed in just about any context: social services, health, hospice, long-term care, public policy, aging services administration, business, etc. We emphasize "generalist" training in our undergraduate programs.
As a field of study and professional practice, gerontology is inherently multi- and interdisplinary in nature. Many health, policy, business and social service professionals focus their careers on aging. You can train as a social worker, for example, but still also market yourself as a gerontologist, too. Cross-disciplinary knowledge is critical for success in this field, and our programs emphasize this fact. Gerontologists play critical roles on professional teams and in the coordination care and other services for seniors.
Academic Programs
Learning Outcomes
The gerontology program is committed to producing graduates who have an appreciation for the rewards and challenges of gerontological practice, and who are equipped with the knowledge to shape positive attitudes concerning aging, and who have the skills necessary to build meaningful structures for care and support of older adults in our community and beyond.