The Occupational Endorsement Certificate (OEC) in Gerontology prepares students for the public health challenges of an aging population and the provision of competent care for older patients in medical settings, and to provide community resources and support to older adults and their family caregivers facing the end of life. This program will broaden the range of trained professionals in the senior care workforce across non-profit, tribal, and public sectors, as well as introduce students to the concept of specializing in geriatric medicine and/or a research career in gerontology. This OEC can be counted as elective credits toward the Bachelor of Science in Human Services program, or other degree programs with permission.
Admission Requirements
Graduation Requirements
- Complete the General University Requirements for Occupational Endorsement Certificates.
- Complete the following major requirements with a minimum grade of C:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| COHI A420 | Physical Activity and Aging | 3 |
| or HUMS A416 | Substance Misuse Disorders and the Older Adult | |
| or SWK A473 | Direct Practice in Elder Care | |
| or SWK A673 | Direct Practice in Elder Care | |
| HS A305 | Public Health for an Aging Society | 3 |
| HS A320 | Death, Dying, and End-of-Life Care | 3 |
| PSY A150 | Lifespan Development | 3 |
| PSY A450 | Adult Development and Aging | 3 |
| Total | 15 | |
A minimum of 15 credits is required for the degree.
Program Student Learning Outcomes
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Identify the main behavioral, social, and environmental factors that influence age-related outcomes of the aging population and the individual older adult.
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Critique and analyze assumptions, stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination related to age (ageism) at both personal and public levels.
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Describe current strategies for disease prevention, including the key components of person-centered care and end-of-life care models, to generate contextually accurate recommendations for health promotion of older adults.