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attendees at 2019 Senior Americans Day event

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

See admission requirements See tuition info

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

College College of Health and Human Sciences

Department

Social Work Department

Campus

Eau Claire

Offered

On Campus

Requires a minor No

Authored on

Hallmarks

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.

student working with patient at aphasia camp

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.

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.

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Blugold Stories

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Do Big Things

Find Connections in the Chippewa Valley Community

Explore volunteer opportunities in the Chippewa Valley through Blugolds for Better, a local volunteer program sponsored by UWEC. From helping local food banks to preserving nature reserves, you'll find connections, build community, and make our world a better place.

Learn more about Blugolds For Better

Do Big Things

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Academic Excellence

Find Your Internship

Choose from opportunities with Fortune 500 companies, local nonprofits, or student support programs right on campus. With a strong reputation in the Chippewa Valley and beyond, you're sure to find an internship that will help you grow — and even earn credit while doing so.

Learn more about the benefits of an internship

Academic Excellence

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 399