The Master of Arts in Gerontology from Concordia University Chicago is designed to provide an interdisciplinary course of study for individuals interested in meeting the needs of an aging world and improving the lives of older adults. The Master of Arts in Gerontology positions graduates to promote and contribute to the wellness of our aging population. This program prepares graduates to work in a variety of aging-related careers. Additionally, this course of study allows for a tailor-made curriculum combining an integrated perspective on aging and older adults. Students are trained in the best practices of gerontological education, research and practice.
The program is designed to prepare traditional and non-traditional students for a career in gerontology. Based on the conceptual learning guidelines proposed by the Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE), the Master of Arts degree in Gerontology is designed to enable the student to:
- Appreciate the uniqueness, abilities and potentials of all older adults and their contributions to their families, their community and to society.
- Acquire educational, research and practice skills for an informed gerontological professional identity and practice.
- Develop increased competency in service to older adults and their families.
- Develop skills for scholarship and research in assessing and implementing future change for older adults and an aging society.
General Graduate Admission Requirements
All applicants must meet the general admission requirements for Concordia University Chicago graduate programs as published in the Concordia University Chicago academic catalog.
New students are accepted into graduate degree-seeking, certificate, endorsement and/or post-graduate programs for online and on-campus study in the fall, spring, or summer semesters. Previously admitted students seeking to change programs may do so at the beginning of a semester (only) by submitting a Change-of-Program quick app. Applicants must be in good academic standing according to Concordia University Chicago’s satisfactory academic progress standards at the time of requesting a program change.
Degree Requirements
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| GERO-6000 | Perspectives in Gerontology | 3 |
| GERO-6045 | Aging, Values, Attitudes and Ethics | 3 |
| GERO-6050 | Adult Development & Aging | 3 |
| GERO-6160 | Sociology of Aging | 3 |
| GERO-6495 | Program Management in Aging | 3 |
| GERO-6500 | Public Policies & Aging | 3 |
| GERO-6510 | Diversity in Aging | 3 |
| GERO-6750 | Advanced Topics in Gerontology | 3 |
| GERO-6900 | Seminar in Gerontology (includes capstone experience) | 3 |
| GERO-6980 | Practicum in Gerontology (240 hours in field) | 3 |
| RES-6620 | Introduction to Research | 3 |
| Total Hours | 33 | |
Graduation Requirements
- Have on file an application as a degree-seeking graduate student.
- Have on file one official transcript from EACH college/university attended of all previous coursework taken.
- Complete, for the degree being sought:
- the credit hours and levels as designated,
- within the specified time limit,
- with grades of C- or higher,
- with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- Students completing multiple advanced programs or degrees at CUC must have a 3.0 GPA in each academic program in addition to a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- If transfer credit is approved to be applied: have on file an approved “Graduate Transfer Credit Approval” form(s) or evaluation(s).
- Have on file the Intent to Graduate/Complete form with the Office of the Registrar by the published deadline.
- Have on file, if applicable, necessary copies of a project, thesis or dissertation.
- Take and pass the final examination or terminal requirements in the program during or after the final course.
- Approval of the faculty.
- All administrative obligations to CUC must be cleared in order to prompt the release of CUC transcripts and diploma(s).
Every attempt has been made to include information to aid the student with information about his/her program, degree and graduation/completion requirements. It is, however, the student’s responsibility to complete all steps and meet all deadlines relevant to graduation requirements.