Undergraduate Certificate in Aging Studies
Program Overview
Undergraduate Certificate in Aging Studies
Understand aging. Empower lives.
Learning Outcomes
- Students will be able to demonstrate the application of multidisciplinary theories of aging in practical interactions with older adults.
- Students will be able to compare and contrast how age-related changes, disease, and self-perception influence physical, psychological, and social health and function.
- Students will be able to identify personal, professional and societal views and biases influencing the aging experience.
Overview
Undergraduates in any area of study who have an interest in learning about or working with older adults are encouraged to earn the Undergraduate Certificate in Aging Studies. Students with a certificate in aging studies may find themselves to be more employable in a marketplace that increasingly works to meet the needs of a growing older adult population.
UIndy students enrolled in our Adult Learning Programs may opt to pursue the 18-credit Aging Studies Minor.
Format
The courses are all offered 100% online, making it convenient for busy students to complete coursework around their other courses and work schedules.
Students enrolled in these undergraduate courses can expect to interact with older adults in their own communities, engage in a curriculum that uses interactive media, and participate in discussions with classmates and experts from various backgrounds.
Certificate Requirements
Four courses (12 credit hours):
GERO 301 - Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Aging
GERO 301 is an introductory, undergraduate-level gerontology course. It will provide the student with an introduction and overview of the field of gerontology including terminology, theoretical perspectives, research and demography, public policy, ageism, history of the study of aging, cross-cultural study of aging, end-of-life issues, career exploration and professional ethics.
Course investigations will include readings from texts and articles, accessing websites, interviews, and case studies. Course assignments will include projects that will require students to interact with aging adults and projects that will require students to explore personal value systems and perceptions of aging.
*GERO 301 fulfills the following category in the General Education Core curriculum: Global Awareness
GERO 305 - Physical Dimensions of Aging
GERO 305 centers on the effects of aging on body systems and the influence of such changes on health and function. It will include opportunities for designing strategies that facilitate healthy aging. Learning experiences will be connected to real-world situations and are designed to facilitate reflection, critical thinking, and application of principles learned.
GERO 310 - Aging in Society & Community
GERO 310 examines aging from both macro and micro perspectives to explore how the aging individual is affected by social and cultural forces, and, in turn, how the aging population affects the greater society. Students will draw on sociological perspectives to increase understanding of applied and theoretical issues in aging, examine the social aspects of aging through roles and relationships, and explore aging as it is related to social institutions and the concept of community. Finally, we will consider patterns of diversity in the aging population as evidenced by race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and gender.
GERO 320 - Psychology of Aging
GERO 320 examines psychological aging in terms of change processes. Psychological theories of aging will be covered as well as the content areas of cognition, personality, and mental health. Students will examine normal and pathological psychological development in these domains, and some of the factors that may influence variations in aging trajectories (i.e., patterns of change over time), including interventions. In addition, several issues in the psychology of aging will be addressed, such as suicide and recognizing the differences between dementia, delirium, and depression.
Enrollment
- If you are a current UIndy undergraduate student, please contact your Academic Advisor.
- If you are a student in the Lifelong Learning College, please contact the Registrar's Office.
- If you are a student in the Adult Learning Programs, please contact your Academic Advisor.
University of Indianapolis
Overview:
University of Indianapolis is a private university located in Indianapolis, Indiana. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including business, education, engineering, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychology, and social work. The university is known for its commitment to providing a personalized learning experience with a strong emphasis on student success.
Services Offered:
University of Indianapolis provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, and writing lab services.Disability Services:
Support for students with disabilities.Health, Wellness & Counseling:
Counseling services, health services, and wellness programs.Housing for Students:
On-campus housing options for students.Library:
Access to a well-equipped library with extensive resources.Safety & Security:
Campus security services to ensure student safety.Stephen F. Fry Professional Edge Center:
Career development services and resources.Student Counseling Center:
Mental health counseling services.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at University of Indianapolis can expect a vibrant and engaging campus life with numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. The university offers:
Campus Events:
A variety of events and activities throughout the year.Clubs & Organizations:
A wide range of student clubs and organizations to join.Fitness & Recreation:
Fitness facilities and recreational activities.Intramural Sports:
Opportunities to participate in intramural sports.Lectures & Programs:
Guest lectures and programs on various topics.Orientation:
A comprehensive orientation program for new students.Religious & Spiritual Life:
Opportunities for religious and spiritual growth.Study Abroad:
Programs for students to study abroad.Volunteer Opportunities:
Opportunities for students to volunteer in the community.Key Reasons to Study There:
Personalized Learning Experience:
Small class sizes and a focus on individual attention.Strong Faculty:
Experienced and dedicated faculty members who are committed to student success.Career Development Support:
Comprehensive career services and resources to help students prepare for their future careers.Vibrant Campus Life:
A lively and engaging campus community with numerous opportunities for involvement.Location:
Convenient location in Indianapolis, offering access to internship and job opportunities.Academic Programs:
University of Indianapolis offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
