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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.

Available as
Certificate or Minor
Description

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.

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
Flex Content

Learn More About the Program

For more information, contact the faculty advisor: goettlrn@uwec.edu

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 481

Social Work Internship

Placement in social welfare agency for professional social work practice experience for one or two semesters. This course is the capstone experience wherein students integrate and apply learning to the work setting.

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