Overview of Gerontology

Gerontology is the study of the physical, mental, and social changes that people experience as they age. In addition to studying the effects of aging, Gerontology also seeks to understand the commonalities between aging and other life stages, such as puberty and adolescence. Gerontology focuses on understanding the biological, psychological, and social aspects of aging, as well as embracing opportunities and challenges posed by advancing age. This field of study has grown rapidly in recent years and is of great interest to many disciplines.

Career Opportunities Associated with Gerontology

The field of Gerontology offers many career opportunities for graduates. Positions such as home health aides, senior case managers, aging and disability specialists, and social workers are all possible. Some students choose to continue their studies and pursue a graduate degree that could lead to a role as a gerontologist, professor, or researcher. Additionally, research assistants and policy advisers are often found in this field.

Internship or Co-Op Opportunities Related to Gerontology

Many internships, co-ops, and job-shadowing opportunities are available for those interested in pursuing a career in Gerontology. Undergraduate students can work as a volunteer or intern in a range of settings such as long-term care facilities, geriatric research centers, senior centers, older adult services, and health care settings. These opportunities can provide valuable experience and networking contacts.

Specialized Tracks or Concentrations within Gerontology

Students may choose to pursue a specific track or concentration within Gerontology such as Gerontology Education or Training, Geriatric Health Care, Mental Health Systems, Public Policy, and Social Services. A complete list of the tracks offered in this field can be found through any accredited college or university that has a Gerontology program.

How Gerontology Prepares Students for Graduate School or Further Education

Gerontology programs offer many opportunities for students to gain education in the science of aging. Students will be exposed to the biomedical, psychological, social, political, and economic causes and consequences of aging. Graduates with a Gerontology degree will have an in depth knowledge base in the field and will have the vital skills necessary for graduate school or further education.

Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Gerontology

The influence of artificial intelligence (AI) is being felt in virtually every discipline, and Gerontology is no exception.AI-driven technologies can be used to better understand the aging process and develop tailored treatments for older individuals. Additionally, AI can help to identify high-risk individuals in need of higher levels of care. AI is already having an impact on healthcare and Gerontology will continue to be one of the fields most affected by the advances in AI.

The Career Outlook for Gerontology

The need for people working in the field of Gerontology is only expected to grow in the coming years. Due to the increasing life expectancy of Americans, the demand for qualified professionals is projected to rise. With a degree in Gerontology, graduates can expect to find rewarding and meaningful careers in a variety of industries and settings.

Here are the top reported starting salaries for graduates in Gerontology:

University of Northern Iowa, Salary: $56,361

Ashford University, Salary: $34,233

California University of Pennsylvania, Salary: $33,905

Western Oregon University, Salary: $33,454

University of Nebraska at Omaha, Salary: $33,387

Kansas State University, Salary: $32,287

California State University-Sacramento, Salary: $32,043

Bowling Green State University-Main Campus, Salary: $28,599

University of South Florida, Salary: $24,858

For privacy reasons, not all schools report the first year salaries for students who earned their bachelor’s degree in Gerontology.