Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Arts in Gerontology Program

The Master of Arts in Gerontology program is designed to prepare students for professional or academic roles requiring specialization in aging. This program is suitable for individuals with an undergraduate degree in a related discipline and who have completed coursework in aging. The program offers two concentrations: Environment & Aging and Health & Aging.

Admission Requirements

To be considered for admission, candidates must satisfy the general admission requirements for graduate studies. The admission criteria include:

• A cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.33 scale (B), or a grade point average of 3.33 on a 4.33 scale (B+) based on the last 60 credits of undergraduate courses.
• Academic course work in the subject area.
• The quality of the statement of research interest submitted.
• Compatibility of the stated research interests and the teaching and research interests of the program’s faculty.

Prerequisite Studies

Admission requires an undergraduate degree in a health-related discipline, such as health sciences, psychology, sociology, nursing, or social work, in which at least one social sciences research methods course was completed. Applicants from other disciplines who have work experience with older adults will also be considered.

Application Process

The application process involves several steps, including:

• Application Deadlines:
  • Spring 2026 (January Admission): July 2nd to August 31st
  • Fall 2026 (September Admission): December 2nd to January 31st
• Transcripts: Applicants will upload unofficial copies of all their post-secondary transcripts as part of the online process.
• References: Three academic references are required.
• Statement of Work/Volunteer: This is a required document.
• Statement of Research Interest: A three to four-page statement of research interest is required.
• English Language Competence: An applicant whose primary language is not English or whose previous education has been conducted in another language must demonstrate command of English sufficient to pursue graduate studies in the chosen field.

Program Requirements

The program consists of four components: two required courses, electives, internship, and Thesis or Capstone Project. Students complete seven courses: two core and five electives chosen from the two concentrations.

Required Courses

• GERO 803-4: Analytical Techniques for Gerontological Research
• GERO 804-4: Advanced Qualitative Methods in Gerontology

Electives

The elective courses are organized into two categories:

Environment and Aging

• GERO 806-4: Interdisciplinary Theories in Gerontology
• GERO 810-4: Community Based Housing, Health and Support Services for Older Adults
• GERO 811-4: Institutional Living Environments
• GERO 822-4: Families, Communities and Health
• GERO 830-4: Aging in a Technological World
• GERO 840-4: Special Topics in Gerontology

Health and Aging

• GERO 802-4: Development and Evaluation of Health Promotion Programs for the Elderly
• GERO 806-4: Interdisciplinary Theories in Gerontology
• GERO 820-4: Principles and Practices of Health Promotion
• GERO 822-4: Families, Communities and Health
• GERO 823-4: Mental Health and Illness in Later Life
• GERO 840-4: Special Topics in Gerontology

Practicum

• GERO 850-4: Practicum

Students lacking relevant work experience will be required to supplement their program of study with a practicum.

Capstone Project or Thesis Option

Students present a written thesis/project proposal to their supervisory committee. The project requirement must meet the guidelines set out in the graduate general regulations.

Funding

The Department of Gerontology provides funding to its graduate students through a combination of teaching positions, Research Assistantships, scholarships, Graduate Fellowships, and private awards. Students must maintain full-time enrollment and a minimum CGPA of 3.5 in their graduate work to be eligible for funding.

Awards

There are various awards available to Gerontology graduate students, including:

• Entrance Awards
• Donor Awards
• Financial Aid Awards
• TA/TM Positions
• Research Assistant Positions

Tuition

All master's students are charged a 'per term fee' each term of their enrollment. SFU admission and funding offers do not include a tuition waiver.

Graduate Advisor

The graduate advisor for the Master of Arts in Gerontology program is Sasha Gill. Students can contact Sasha to set up an advising appointment to discuss program planning and any questions or issues they have regarding their Gerontology classes.