B.A. in Gerontology

Gerontology consists of an exploration of the biopsychological dimensions of life course development, with a focus on the rapidly expanding aging population at of the United States. As we move into the new century, it is expected that career alternatives will be numerous and the personal rewards great.

The Gerontology Major is interdisciplinary and grounded in the excellent liberal arts tradition of Mount St. Mary's College with courses residing in Gerontology, Sociology, Psychology, Biology, Philosophy and Religious Studies. It is believed this program design greatly benefits professional training in the field, providing a broad base of understanding of the complex dynamics of aging in our society today.

As a gerontologist, an ever-increasing array of career options are available, such as in human resources management, public policy, case management, social services delivery systems, family services agencies, job retraining, housing, transportation, rehabilitation programs, retirement communities, church-related agencies, government agencies, and more.

Along with the Gerontology Major, a Minor and Certificate are also available.

COURSES REQUIRED FOR THE B.A. DEGREE IN GERONTOLOGY:

(all courses listed below are three-unit courses)

Lower Divison

SOC 13 - Anatomy for Human Services
or
BIO 40 - Anatomy

Core required courses for B.A.in Gerontology

GER 120 - Case Management
GER 188 - Caregiving Adaptations for Elders
GER 189 - Sociology of Aging
GER 192 - Thanatology Seminar
GER 197 - Gerontology Internship
SOC 104 - The Family
SOC 112 - Medical Sociology
SOC 117 - Research Methods
SOC 130 - Human Communication
SOC 121 - Human Services Ethics
SOC 160 - Diversity in Society

Total Units for Major in Gerontology: 36

Plus completion of the general studies requirements and the modern language (culture) requirement for a total of 124 units