Graduate Certificate Program

Slippery Rock University offers a multidisciplinary graduate certificate in gerontology.  This program is designed to provide a specialization in aging for persons pursuing a graduate degree at Slippery Rock University; or persons who have completed an undergraduate degree, who are working for the aged and would like additional credentials in gerontology.  The program provides the student with an overview of the field of gerontology, information on the biophysical and psychosocial aspects of aging, a selected introduction to the skills needed to work with aged persons, a review of skills, data and findings in gerontological research, and a field experience or practicum involving work with the aging.  The certificate is particularly appropriate for students seeking graduate degrees in administration, counseling, exercise science, health, nursing, patient advocacy, public policy, recreation, rehabilitation, and social work.

Requirements:  A minimum of 18 credits is required in the following areas:

I.  Foundations and Research (6 credits required)

• Gero 465/665 - Seminar in Gerontology (3 cr)

• Gero 667 - Research Seminar in Gerontology (3 cr)

II.  Biophysical (3 credits required)

• HSaf 665 - Nutrition for Older Adults (3 cr)

• ERS 562 - Health and Fitness for the Older Adult (3 cr)

III.  Psychosocial (3 credits required)

• PSYC 665 - Psychology of Aging (3 cr)

• CDEV 619 - Psychology of Adulthood (3 cr)

IV.  Gerontological Skills (3 credits required)

• CDEV 617 - Counseling the Adult (3 cr)

V.  Field Experience (3 credits required)

• Gero 450/650 - Gerontology Internship (3 cr)

VI.  Additional Gerontology Courses

• Gero 590 - Experimental Courses

• Gero 700 - Independent Study