Online Certificate Program in Gerontology
Interdisciplinary Faculty
General Overview:
Over the next 20 years, the number of Americans over the age of 65 will double. Additionally, the number of adults over 85 who need acute, primary, and long-term care will increase five-fold. This demographic shift will significantly increase the demand for professionals with the skills and knowledge to care for the health, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of older adults.
The Certificate Program in Gerontology is designed to help professionals currently working with older adults, as well as individuals preparing for health and human services professions, develop their capacity to serve this clinically complex population. The program is based on the multidisciplinary competencies recommended by the Partnership for Health in Aging.
Students may complete the five courses in the program in one year by taking one course in each 7-week session or they may proceed at their own pace.
7-Week Online Format:
The traditional 15-week fall and spring semesters are divided into two 7-week sessions, allowing students the convenience of taking classes online and the opportunity to focus on one course at a time. This format allows students to make steady progress each semester. If life interrupts a session, the next session is right around the corner. In addition, USM offers two 7-week sessions each summer. Graduation is a step closer every seven weeks.
Enrollment Information:
If you are interested in completing this Gerontology certificate online, simply complete the Enrollment Form or call us at 780-5900, and we will assist you through the enrollment process.
Certificate Requirements:
15 undergraduate credits are required for this certificate. These courses maybe taken in any sequence.
Required Courses (6 credits)- Courses are offered every year.
- HRD 310 Aging and the Search for Meaning
- CON 313 Health in Later Years
Elective Courses (choose 3 of the following)- These courses may vary each year. View course descriptions.
- CON 390 Evaluation and Health Assessment of the Older Adult
- Aging and Physical Activity
- Partnering with Family Caregivers
- HRD 312 The Spiritual Challenges and Opportunities of Aging
- Case Management and Communication Skills for Older Adults
- CON 318 Adult Development and Aging
- Health Care Systems and Policies
- STH 315 Rehabilitation Services for Older Adult
The program recommends that students have junior/senior status or some college experience if they are experienced professionals. The individual courses require that all students have taken a college level writing course and at least one course in either psychology or sociology. Students should be prepared for a rigorous academic experience as all courses are upper level and the 7-week format is intensive.
Students may complete the entire certificate or select individual courses.
Scheduled Courses:
- Summer 2013
- 7-Week Online, Session 1 (May 13- June 28)
- 7-Week Online, Session 2 (July 1-August 16)
- Spring 2013
- 7 Week Online: 1st Session (January 14- March 12)
- 7 Week Online: 2nd Session (March 13- May 10)
- Fall 2012
- 7 Week Online: 1st Session (September 4- October 24)
- 7 Week Online: 2nd Session (October 26-Decmber 21)
PCE Student Services:
Need help? Have Questions? We understand the challenges of finishing your degree and we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Contact PCE (Professional and Continuing Education) Student Services at 207-780-5900, or email us at pce@usm.maine.edu, or visit us in person.
USM Social Dashboard »
Check out our new Social Dashboard to see other ways to stay connected across the USM community.