GRCC Program:
Certificate
Gerontology is the study of the process of aging: biological, behavioral and social aspects of later life. The field of aging is multi-disciplinary and focuses on basic understanding of processes, programs, and policies that involve an aging America. With the older population growing twice as fast as the general population, there is an increasing need for knowledgeable, experienced and compassionate individuals to provide assistance and support to older adults and their families. The demand for qualified individuals to work in the field of gerontology is expected to increase much faster than average due to the growth of the aging population and programs designated to provide services to older persons.
GRCC’s Gerontology certificate program is designed for persons who wish to focus on their skills in gerontology. It is a multi-option curriculum for a wide range of students: (1) those who wish to obtain a certificate in Gerontology only; (2) those who choose to obtain a certificate in Gerontology along with another degree; (3) those who have baccalaureate or advanced degrees, other professional degrees, or professional certification and wish to obtain a certificate in Gerontology, or (4) those who wish to earn a certificate to enhance skills and employability in a transfer degree program such as social work or business. This added credential could enhance employability and job performance in many fields.
The Gerontology certificate program includes core courses with specific Gerontology classes and seminars related to issues and concerns of aging. It also includes electives from occupational support courses and a supervised practicum, including field placement and classroom seminar. The supervised practicum of 120 hours is required to meet national standards. This certificate program is designed to follow a career ladder approach for students who do not have associate, baccalaureate, advanced or professional degrees. This means that community college students can earn a certificate in Gerontology that complements an associate’s degree in a different field. This allows students to begin an educational program that meets their specific occupational interests while also earning credit toward a related associate’s degree.
The following recommendations are presented as a guide. Courses may be taken in any order as long as all the listed requirements (including prerequisites) are met.
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