Aging Studies and Gerontology Minor
Aging Studies and Gerontology Minor
Contact Information
Program Coordinator
McCormick 2115 | 570-389-4910
Advisors
Students may consult with any of these advisors for further information on the minor and careers in gerontology:
Dr. Erdley, Social Work, MCHS 2127
Dr. Hidalgo-DeJesus, Spanish, OSH 0231
Dr. Mason, Psychology, MCHS 2115
Dr. Larcom, Psychology, MCHS 2141
Dr. Deb Sanders, MCHS 3124
Dr. Pam Smith, CEH 0224
The Aging Studies and Gerontology (ASG) minor is designed to allow you to blend your major and career goals with the growing population of older adults. The steadily increasing number of adults over 60 years old is staggering, and industries ranging from health care to robotics are responding to the needs of this large and special group. The Occupational Outlook Handbook, found online at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, shows that among the fastest growing occupations are many that work directly or indirectly with older adults.
The 18 credit interdisciplinary ASG minor pulls courses from many areas on campus, illustrating the versatility of the program. Depending on your major, the addition of the ASG minor may lead to:
- Administrative positions, such as with federal, state, or local agencies (perhaps related to housing, Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security), private insurance companies, or with retirement communities
- Computer programming and app design, such developing brain-training apps or methods of engaging in physical or cognitive therapy from remote locations
- Counseling and social work services, such as working with clients with depression or those in need of suitable housing or personal assistance
- Educational and volunteer organizations, such as leadership positions with Road Scholars or other Senior College organizations, or Senior Corps, Experience Corps, or similar volunteer placement groups
- Engineering and human factors, ranging from designing computerized appliances and robots, to home and vehicle modifications
- Financial and legal services, working with clients in areas of retirement planning, legal or medical advocacy, abuse, or fraud cases
- Fitness and wellness coaches and directors, perhaps in recreational settings, vacation and resort centers, or retirement communities
- Health care in a wide range of areas, from long-term care to nutritional counseling to personal care
- Neuroscience and brain research, ranging from exploring methods of improving memory to ways to slow or prevent dementia
- Rehabilitation and therapeutic services, involving physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and mental health counseling
Even though students in the ASG minor have majors from all over campus, you will have many opportunities to meet others in the program through the monthly meetings of the Aging Special Interest Group. Directed by Dr. Deb Sanders in Nursing, this group participates in many campus functions, such as the Relay for Life and the Alzheimer’s Walk, and also volunteers with elders in the community, such as organizing game nights and dances for residents at local retirement communities.
Also, each spring semester the faculty directors organize Careers in Aging Week, bringing to campus many representatives from area agencies and organizations to discuss potential internship and employment opportunities with students. The week also features various speakers, film reviews, and other activities.
Please contact one of the advisors if you any questions.