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Introduction to the Higher Diploma in Gerontology and Geriatrics

The Higher Diploma in Gerontology and Geriatrics is a comprehensive program designed to expand students' knowledge in the social, psychological, economic, and biological processes of ageing and later life. This program promises to act as a catalyst for candidates' intellectual development, focusing on meeting the needs of both present and incoming cohorts of older persons.

Program Overview

The Higher Diploma provides a broadly based, multi-disciplinary perspective on ageing, later life, and older persons, while also disseminating knowledge and skills related to clinical and practical interventions with older persons. It aims to sensitize students to the application of gerontological and geriatric research findings to practice.

Target Audience

This program is especially meant for individuals who:

• Are already working with older persons and in the field of ageing.
• Wish to work with older persons.
• Wish to commence their studies in the field of gerontology and geriatrics.

Program Structure

The program is structured over three semesters, with a total of 90 ECTS credits. It is offered on a full-time blended mode of study.

Year 1

• Semester 1: Compulsory units include Ethical Issues in the Care of Older Persons, Interprofessional and Integrated Care in Old Age, Principles of Social Gerontology, Physiological and Medical Issues in Later Life, Theoretical Issues in Ageing Policy, Researching Ageing and Later Life, and Field Placement in Gerontological and Geriatric Settings.
• Semester 2: Compulsory units include Key Principles of Dementia Care, Public Speaking and Positive Interactions with Older Persons, Mental Health Issues in Later Life, Food and Nutrition in Later Life, Social Rehabilitation in Later Life, and Introduction to Abuse and Neglect.

Year 2

• Semester 1: Compulsory units include Active Ageing Policies and Programmes, Assistive Devices for the Older Person, Gerontechnology and Digital Inclusion in Later Life, Diversity and Discrimination in Later Life, Educational Gerontology, and Legal Issues in Later Life.

Admission Requirements

General entry requirements include country-specific qualifications. Mature applicants must be in possession of qualifications and/or experience that satisfy the Faculty Admissions Committee that they have reached the academic standard required to follow the course with profit. Such applicants are required to submit a letter of motivation and a copy of their Curriculum Vitae.

Tuition Fees

For non-EU applicants, the total tuition fees are Eur 2,700, with a fee per semester of Eur 900.

Career Opportunities

As a graduate, individuals will be able to enter careers as social and health care workers in residential and nursing homes, community services, and non-governmental organizations, or even as informal carers. They will possess a range of competences, including subject knowledge and understanding, intellectual development, key/transferable skills, and other skills relevant to employability and personal development.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of social gerontology, compare the difference between the third and fourth ages, list arguments against using chronological age as a strategy to differentiate between older and younger adults, and explain diverse biological theories of ageing. They will also be able to assist geriatricians in ward rounds, design and implement activity programs for frail older persons, and contribute to policy strategies on positive ageing.

Program Governance

This program of study is governed by the General Regulations for University Undergraduate Awards, 2019, and by the Bye-Laws for the award of the Higher Diploma in Gerontology and Geriatrics under the auspices of the Faculty for Social Wellbeing.