Gerontology Minor Mission
The mission of the gerontology minor is to broaden student’s understanding of the life course by increasing their understanding of the process of aging. In combination with the student’s major, this minor prepares students to possess a more complete understanding of the biological, psychological, and social factors related to aging. The minor is an interdisciplinary program which integrates courses in sociology, social work, nursing, dietetics, psychology, religious studies, biology, and philosophy. This minor encourages students to make connections among various fields of learning and to promote academic excellence through scientific research, education, and service.
Goals
- Facilitate student learning of gerontology through a multidisciplinary perspective.
- Students will acquire a basic foundation in of aging in the fields of psychology, biology/physiology, and sociology in order to understand changes in later life that are caused by aging and those that are correlated with aging.
- Students will achieve an understanding of theories and methodologies used to study aging phenomena.
- Students will gain an understanding of the age structures of diverse populations (domestic and global) and the impact of demography on the individual life course, family structures, and social structures.
- Students will gain supplemental information in gerontology within their own disciplinary expertise.
- Enhance the career preparation of students by engaging in practical experience through service learning or through an internship in an agency focused upon the elderly.
- Encourage students to assess and critique the societal response to aging (i.e., programs, policies, legislation).
- Encourage students to understand the ethical complexities surrounding issues related to aging.