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Gerontology

Better understand the rewards and challenges associated with aging and what you can do to make a positive impact on others with UWEC's gerontology minor or certificate.

Available as
Certificate or Minor
Description

Explore the Aging Process

Through a robust, experiential curriculum, you'll examine the various psychological, social and health aspects associated with aging, including the process of aging, problems with aging, aging effects on society, needs of the aged and social services to the aged. Coursework focuses on a variety of perspectives, including those related to economics, healthcare, employment, retirement, housing, politics, family, and intimate relationships. Nearly all classes taken to fulfill the program requirements are chosen by you, allowing you to study the topics that most interest you.

Graduates leave the program with an enhanced understanding of how to effectively work with older adults in various settings such as hospitals, senior centers or long-term care facilities, making them well-rounded and highly sought-after professionals. Possible career paths include providing direct services to the elderly; designing, implementing and evaluating programs for the elderly; assisting with financial planning; or administering agencies and organizations that serve the needs of older individuals.

Degree Types

Program Details

Degree Types
Certificate
Minor
Degree Level undergraduate
Available asCertificate or Minor
Campus
Eau Claire
Offered
On Campus
Requires a minor No
Authored on
Hallmarks
sociology classroom
Personalized Education

The majority of the gerontology program is made up of course electives, giving you the ability to personalize your education and study the topics that interest you. Explore classes in biology, communication sciences, economics, healthcare, nursing, philosophy, psychology, religion, sociology, and social work.

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In-Demand Skills

In an aging society, professionals — especially those entering the social work field — who have studied gerontology are in high demand. This knowledge and experience can help you stand out against other job applicants and put you ahead in your career, while also shaping you into a more compassionate and understanding professional.

social work classroom
Outstanding Faculty

At UW-Eau Claire, our talented professors make it a priority to create an impactful learning environment where you come first. Small class sizes allow for the formation of meaningful, lasting connections with others who are just as passionate about understanding and helping others.

Facts List

Just
the
facts

Competitive Salaries
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the median annual salary for social workers in 2023 was $58,380.
In Demand Jobs
There is a projected 89,000 position increase in the social work field before 2030.
U.S. Dept of Labor 2023
Direct Access to Field Opportunities
UWEC's Social Work department has connections to over 100 field placement sites in Eau Claire and the surrounding areas.
Courses information
SampleCourses

Examine the correlations and consequences of the multifaceted nature of the human aging process with coursework in a variety of disciplines.

Here are a few courses in Gerontology at UW-Eau Claire.

SW 315

Aging and the Aged

The process of aging, its problems, effects on society, needs of the aged, and social services to the aged.

SW 360

Death and Bereavement

Through the study of current theory and research, this interdisciplinary course is designed to facilitate student understanding of death and bereavement from a lifespan, family, and cultural perspective.

SW 309

Community-based Corrections

Social work in prevention and treatment of crime and delinquency. Traditional and emerging community-based programs considered.

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