Gerontology Minor

Gerontology

Learn the skills to help older adults.

Through the interdisciplinary Gerontology Minor you will explore issues and topics related to aging in today’s society. You will benefit from a broad knowledge base drawn from a selection of courses from departments across the university including the social and natural sciences and humanities. Gerontology incorporates an understanding of psychological, social, and biological changes across the lifespan and their effect on policy and the economy. The Gerontology Minor will prepare you to work directly with older adults and their caregivers through your a major field of study such as nursing or occupational therapy or to work in policy, community services, human services, and business.

Explore sample courses in this program.

IS-160 Introduction to Gerontology

Introduction to topics and issues in aging from psychological, biological, and societal perspectives.

3 credits

BI-266 Biology of Aging

Considers characteristics of the aging process utilizing the newest theories based upon dynamics, function and metabolic regulations, disease, and the acceleration of the aging process.

3 credits

PS-322 Psychology of Aging

Adulthood and the aging process are studied with special emphasis on current developmental theories.

3 credits

PO-312 Health Politics and Policy

Examination of the process and factors that influence formulation, implementation, and modification of health policy in the United States. Topics include health ethics, insurance, finance, prescription drug regulation, Medicare/Medicaid, epidemics, private markets, public interest, distributive justice, and the role of government.

3 credits

HC-220 Health Policy

Examination of the process and factors that influence formulation, implementation, and modification of health policy in the United States.

3 credits

HC-345 Introduction to the US Health Care System

This course is an overview of the US health care system (USHCS) and its components. Subjects to be reviewed include how social determinants of health influence access to health care and the role of health care providers and their effect in the health care system. The history of USHCS, the financing of services, types of services offered, and access and quality of these services. Understanding these topics help students formulate an understanding of how the USHCS functions and the factors involved in the delivery of health care services.

3 credits

UR-315 Oral History for Urban Areas

In its simplest terms, oral history is the collection and study of historical information using audio or video recordings of interviews with people having personal knowledge of past events. Often powerful and rich personal narratives, oral histories provide insight into a past event or series of events, often communicating unofficial or previous unknown/misunderstood stories especially in urban areas. This class explores the theoretical underpinnings of memory and remembering, and best practices for oral history. Students also engage in oral history work including interviewing, recording, transcribing, analysis, and preparing oral histories for research and dissemination.

3 credits

UR-221 Introduction to Social Work

This course introduces students to the changing concepts, terms, and theories about the field and practice of social work, how social workers interact with individuals and society, and the different roles social workers play in our diverse, ever changing society. It is structured to provide students with the historical and current understanding of the role of social work practitioners, and it requires that students examine their own concepts, beliefs, and ideas of what “social work” and “social worker” means. These experiences enhance students’ skills in cognitive thinking, reading, writing, and speaking.

3 credits

UR-306 Interviewing and Counseling Techniques

Investigation of skills and process of interviewing and counseling with emphasis upon theory and practice, participant exercises, and development of helping skills and effective counseling relationships.

3 credits

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