College of Social & Behavioral Sciences
Gerontology Program
336 Trafton Science Center N
507-389-6590
Gerontology is the scientific study of the biological, psychological and social aspects of aging. The Gerontology program, in cooperation with the Center on Aging, coordinates the delivery of the curriculum in human aging and facilitates activities of education, research and service which create, disseminate and apply knowledge about aging. The primary purpose of the graduate curriculum in aging is to provide a knowledge base in gerontology which, when combined with professional knowledge and skills, prepares the student for practice in the aging network. The program offers both general and administrative tracks of study at the graduate level. In addition to the Master of Science in Gerontology, Minnesota State also offers a Graduate Certificate of Study in Gerontology and specialized coursework leading to original licensure as a nursing home administrator in Minnesota. The University is a member of the Association for Gerontology in Higher Education.
Applications for admission to the MS in Gerontology program may be submitted at any time. Although entrance in fall semester is preferred, permission may be granted for study to commence at other times during the academic year. Full admission requires a baccalaureate degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, at least 16 credits of social and behavioral science and evidence of promise for successful graduate study and professional practice with older adults. The GRE is not required.
One or more graduate assistantships in Gerontology are normally available each year on a competitive basis. Other financial assistance may become available from time to time, e.g., research assistance or special project work. Contact the program director for current information.
(Thesis Plan - 30 credits)
(Alternate Plan Paper - 34 credits)
One-half of the total credits for the degree must be 600 level credits (excluding the thesis or alternate plan paper credits). A minimum of 24 credits of Gerontology is required under either plan. Within these 24 credits, a maximum of three credits of internship and either four credits of thesis or two credits of alternate paper research may be included.
Select a minimum of one course from each of the three core areas. Other core courses can be used as electives.
Choose Gerontology elective courses in consultation with an advisor:
FCS 574 (3) Residential Management for Families and Special Needs People
GERO 580 (3) Nursing Home Administration
GERO 677 (1-4) Individual Study
HLTH 541 (3) Death Education (3) OR SOC 505 (3) Sociology of Death (3)
RPLS 582 (3) Leisure Needs of the Aging
Additional credits needed to meet degree requirements and to meet the specific educational objectives of the student are to be chosen from the Gerontology list and/or from the offerings of other departments with emphasis on course work at the 600 level. For example, one might include course work in program planning, administration and evaluation and/or graduate-level course work which is required for nursing home administration licensure. Early consultation with the Gerontology Program Director is required to assure careful program planning and maximum utilization of program options. Students completing an APP or thesis will be required to participate in an oral defense of their work.
The Certificate of Study in Gerontology is granted on completion of 18 credits of approved course work in Gerontology. The program is intended for persons who wish to acquire a core of knowledge and skill in Gerontology but who may not wish to pursue a degree program with a Gerontology component. The certificate signifies completion of an approved multidisciplinary course of study in Gerontology. As such, it may have value to prospective employers who seek evidence of specialized study relevant to working with and on behalf of the elderly. Admission to the certificate program requires formal application to the Gerontology program. Upon admission, a program of study must be developed with and approved by the program director. Academic advising for the certificate program is provided by the director of the Gerontology program.
GERO 580 (3) Nursing Home Administration
Issues and trends, programs and services, funding mechanisms and regulations. Meets state educational requirements for specific content areas.
GERO 585 (1-3) Topics in Gerontology
Topics vary as announced in class schedule. May be retaken for credit if topic is different.
GERO 600 (3) Gerontology Theory and Practice
This course will provide students with an integrated knowledge of theory and practice in gerontology and examine the challenges involved in studying and providing services to the elderly, as well as ethical and advocacy-related issues in an aging society.
GERO 601 (3) Seminar in Gerontology
Topic varies with offering. May be taken more than once.
GERO 677 (1-4) Individual Study
Prerequisite: consent
GERO 694 (1-2) Alternate Plan Paper
Prerequisite: consent
GERO 697 (1-6) Internship
Prerequisite: by application and consent
GERO 698 (1-6) Practicum: Nursing Home Administration
For students following the program of study for nursing home administration
Prerequisite: by application and consent
GERO 699 (3-6) Thesis
Prerequisite: consent
