Gerontology (MSc) drafted

Program Overview

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Gerontology is the study of ageing and how it affects the individual and society. On our Gerontology MSc at the University of Southampton you'll study changes people experience as they age. You'll look into the effect of an aging population on social institutions, labour markets, welfare systems and families. Prepare for a career in gerontology or applied health and social sciences.

Understanding the process of population ageing can benefit areas such as health and social care, research, and local and national policy.

On this UK master’s course in gerontology, you’ll look at the subject from a range of perspectives, including policy, demography, sociology, biology, healthcare sciences, psychology and economics.

You’ll develop:

understanding of key theories in gerontology and their application

knowledge of modern global debates around the lives of older people, their families and societies

the ability to evaluate policies and initiatives concerning issues like population ageing, welfare provision and quality of life

qualitative and quantitative research skills

the ability to design and conduct independent research in gerontology using appropriate research methods

skills for a career in gerontology, applied health or social sciences

Flexible study

If you prefer, you can apply to study this course as:

a part-time master's - you'll usually study over 2 or more years

If you’re not ready to take on a full course, as part of continuing professional development (CPD) you can choose to

study a module on its own

. It’s a great way to introduce yourself to the subject and you can build up to higher level study. Choose campus based study or

distance learning

.

Your modules and fees may vary if you choose a different study option.

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Course lead

Your course leader is Athina Vlachantoni, Professor of Gerontology and Social Policy at the University of Southampton. Her research interests combine the areas of ageing, gender and social policy. Read

Professor Vlachantoni’s profile

to find out more about her research interests and publication.

Program Outline

Whether you choose to study full-time or part-time, the course is made of modules that everyone on the course takes, and modules we’ll ask you to choose from a list of options. You’ll study 6 modules in total and your dissertation.

If you choose to study full-time, you’ll study over 1 year. For the first 8 months (semesters 1 and 2) you'll study the taught part of your course.

For the last 4 months, over the summer, you’ll work independently to research and write your dissertation. You’ll have one-to-one meetings with your supervisor during this time to discuss your progress.

If you choose to study part-time, can study over 2 or 3 years. The taught part of the course takes place over 2 semesters, in each year. You’ll work independently to research and write your dissertation in the summer.

Whether you choose to study full or part-time you have the flexibility to study 2 modules by

distance learning

.

Want more detail?

See all the modules in the course.