Gerontology
Are you curious about how aging shapes our world — and how you can make a positive impact on older adults? UWEC’s gerontology minor or certificate gives you the tools to explore aging from many perspectives, including health, relationships, policies, and more. You’ll gain knowledge and develop skills that are valuable in a wide range of careers.
Explore the Aging Process
This minor and certificate take a closer look at the real-life experiences of older adults and the systems that support them. Our hands-on, flexible curriculum lets you choose courses that match your interests and career goals. You’ll explore a wide variety of perspectives related to aging: healthcare, psychology, sociology, economics, political science, communication, technology, and more. Study the topics you are most excited about, and gain a deeper understanding of the aging process and its impact on individuals, families, and society.
With a rapidly growing aging population, and an increasing need for professionals in gerontology, you will graduate with the knowledge to stand out and make a meaningful difference. You will discover the rewards and challenges of working with older adults, while building skills that are in high demand across a wide variety of settings. Whether you want to work directly with older adults or help shape the systems that support them, you will have a better understanding and tools to lead, think creatively, and innovate, and make a lasting impact.
Program Details
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.
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.
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.
Blugold Stories
JustThe Facts
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 383
Social Welfare Policies and Programs
Structure and content of social welfare policies; models of policy analysis; policy development; ethics. Emphasis on oppression, discrimination, and the social values of adequacy, equity, and social and economic justice, especially for oppressed and at-risk populations.
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