Bachelor’s in Gerontology Program Guide

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James Mielke
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James Mielke writes education and career-focused guides for BestColleges. Beyond higher education topics, his writing has been featured in Golfweek and Eaten Magazine. James has a history degree from Belmont University and is an unapologetic Grateful...
Updated on March 28, 2024
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The Urban Institute projects that between 2000 and 2040, the number of Americans 85 or older will quadruple. As this population typically requires significant healthcare, social services, and advocacy, the demand for gerontologists should mirror these demographic shifts.

A bachelor's degree in gerontology prepares learners to address the mental, physical, and social needs of an aging population. Graduates can pursue careers in growing fields like social work, healthcare administration, and occupational therapy.

Should I Get a Bachelor's in Gerontology?

A bachelor's degree in gerontology provides students with the theoretical and practical skills needed to advocate for aging people. Learners hone the communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills needed for successful careers in gerontology.

A bachelor's degree in gerontology provides students with the theoretical and practical skills needed to advocate for aging people.

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Degree-seekers also gain widely applicable health-related instruction in addition to completing general education coursework. As a result, students can pursue a broad spectrum of career opportunities. Typical careers for gerontology graduates include social work, mental health, health services administration.

Between 2019 and 2029, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects significant job growth in social work (13%) and occupational therapy (16%). An aging baby-boom generation means that gerontology professionals should remain in high demand for the foreseeable future.

What Will I Learn in a Gerontology Bachelor's Program?

Students pursuing a bachelor's degree in gerontology must typically complete 120 credits. In addition to general education coursework, students complete core gerontology classes like biology of aging, psychology of adult development and aging, and working with minority elderly.

In addition to traditional coursework, degree-seekers typically complete a gerontology practicum in a professional setting. This fieldwork requirement provides learners with over 100 hours of in-person experiential learning, an irreplaceable introduction to the field's professional responsibilities.

Concentrations

  • Administration

    For students interested in administrative careers, this concentration focuses on the practical skills required for effective leadership in gerontology. Common courses include management and administration of aging programs, long-term care administration, and senior housing.

  • Healthy Aging

    In this concentration, students often complete classes in hospice care, recreation for the aging, and nutrition and aging. Coursework also highlights the value of building resilience among older individuals and their families.

  • Pre-Health

    This concentration introduces foundational theories and methods in gerontology for students considering a future in providing healthcare to an aging population. Covered topics include hospice, nutrition and aging, and health aspects of aging.

Popular Online Degrees for Gerontology Professionals

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

What Can I Do With a Bachelor's in Gerontology?

Graduates with a bachelor's degree in gerontology can apply their specialized training within many career paths.

Additionally, this degree can lead to many professional certificates and master's programs. Students often pursue certifications, such as gerontological specialist, advanced aging life care, and certified hospice and palliative social work. Read on to learn more about popular careers and how graduates can elevate their degrees.

Popular Career Paths

Popular Continuing Education Paths

How Much Money Can I Make With a Bachelor's in Gerontology?

While salaries vary among specific careers, a bachelor's degree in gerontology leads to expanded career options and higher pay. According to the BLS, social and community services managers earn a median annual salary of $69,600. Additionally, social workers make a median income of $51,760 per year.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor's in Gerontology Programs

What is gerontology?

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Gerontology is the study of aging. Professionals in the field explore the cognitive, physical, and social implications of an aging population. Experts use their knowledge to influence policies and advocate for effective programming for this population.

Is a bachelor's in gerontology worth it?

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Earning a bachelor's degree in gerontology can enhance career options and earning potential. Additionally, the BLS projects 13% job growth for both community health workers and social workersbetween 2019 and 2029.

How much does it cost to get a bachelor's in gerontology?

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Earning a bachelor's degree in gerontology requires a significant investment of time and money. Nevertheless, students can find ways to save money through financial aid and in-state tuition. Online programs also cut back on food and housing costs.

How long does it take to get a bachelor's degree in gerontology?

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A bachelor's degree in gerontology takes about four years to complete for full-time students. Students who transfer credits, hold an associate degree, or enroll in accelerated programs can graduate in less time.

Is gerontology a good career?

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Yes. Gerontology professionals perform meaningful work and often earn high salaries. For example, social and community services managers earn a median annual salary of $69,600. As baby boomers age, gerontology professionals should remain in high demand.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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