The Graduate Certificate in Gerontology is designed for people:

1. Currently working in aging/ human services who need or desire formal education in Gerontology but not a master's degree;
2. In related master's degree programs whose value to employers would be raised by formal training in Gerontology;
3. Interested in graduate education in Gerontology but are unsure whether to pursue a master's degree.
4. Who need alternative study times. This program is asynchronous so that individuals may vary their times of study.

Why Pursue a Certificate in Gerontology?

Between 2000 and 2030, the number of elderly in both the U.S. and North Carolina will double. By 2025 North Carolina's population will be older than Florida’s today! The explosive growth of the older population will affect, directly or indirectly, nearly every career. A Certificate in Gerontology positions you professionally to work within one of the most rapidly growing fields in the nation. Additionally, it empowers you in dealing realistically, pragmatically and effectively with your own aging and the aging of those close to you.

Graduate Certificate in Gerontology Program of Study

By taking two courses per semester and a summer internship, the 15 SH certificate can be earned in one year; however, given your work and family obligations, you can choose to take one course per semester and earn your certificate over two years.

SOC 5400: Sociology of Adult Development and Aging (3 SH)
SOC 5420: Health Care and Aging (3 SH)
SOC 5530: Housing and the Elderly (3 SH)
SOC 5630: Programs and Services for Older Adults (3 SH)
SOC 5900: Internship (3 SH)

The internship is designed for your professional development in consultation with the Certificate Program Director. For students interest in long-term care, the internship can include the Assisted Living Facility Administrator-in-Training (ALF-AIT) program leading to licensure as an ALF administrator. Appalachian's graduate Gerontology program is a state-approved ALF-AIT provider.

The Distance Education Program

Appalachian's distance education program in Gerontology offers students the 15 semester hours necessary to acquire the graduate certificate in Gerontology with no on-campus requirement. Two courses are offered each term. Students will be expected to complete necessary coursework within the given term, and grades will be posted to an Appalachian transcript. The internship is typically done during the summer term. Courses are delivered via the internet. Students access these web-based courses from the University AppalNET, a secured access portal available to Appalachian students and faculty. Chatrooms and e-mail will also be employed. Library resources are provided online via a wealth of electronic databases and indexes (including full-text resources, e-books and e-journals). Additionally, a team of distance learning librarians is available during evening hours as well as on weekends to respond to calls or e-mails. A complete description of library services is shown on the Library Support for Distance Learners webpage at: www.library.appstate.edu/distance_learning

Admission Requirements and Procedures

For a listing of upcoming programs see Proposed New Programs. An individual planning to enter the gerontology certificate program must possess a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, and s/he must have appropriate access to the internet. Individuals wishing to apply should contact the Office of Extension and Distance Education. Spaces for this program are limited.