Not only are people on average living longer today; they are remaining in better health than in past generations. Yet myths and stereotypes about old people are more common than facts and knowledge. The University of Vermont’s Certificate in Gerontology takes a multi-disciplinary perspective to the study of aging that aims to challenge those misconceptions and replace them with information firmly grounded in reality.
This 15-credit Certificate program is designed to be of interest to professionals in Health and Human Services Fields who wish to expand their work to include the elder population or who wish to earn an academic credential in Gerontology that may be useful in their career advancement; individuals seeking entry-level positions in the health and social service fields working with elders in a variety of settings; and adults interested in better understanding and preparing for the aging of their loved ones and themselves.
Through the Certificate, students will gain foundational knowledge of biological, psychological, and sociological aging; learn about the direct practice and ethical issues common to working with elders; and consider the effectiveness of social service programs, public policies, and other forms of services, resources, and settings designed to support elders.
Students who complete the Certificate will gain specialized knowledge and skills that prepare them for entry-level, aging-related career fields or for advanced study in gerontology, and will be prepared to participate more effectively in their own aging processes, with elder members of their families and communities, and on age-related institutional/policy-level endeavors.
Most courses offered in the Certificate are offered on-campus, with some courses offered online. Please refer to the Courses and Curriculum page to view course learning formats.
