Department of Gerontology

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Mission Statement

Mission

The mission of the Gerontology program is to produce the next generation of thought-leaders, problem solvers, innovators, and entrepreneurs in the field of gerontology and aging services that will effect change and advocate for historically marginalized groups in our global community.

Admissions Requirements

Applicants must meet the admission requirements of Bethune-Cookman University as described in the Admissions and Enrollment Services  section of this catalog. In addition, students coming from the School of Nursing must have the permission of the Dean of the School of Nursing, the Chair of the Department of Gerontology, and a cumulative GPA of 2.500 or higher. 

Program Description

The Bachelor of Science degree program in Gerontology focuses on methodologies from biology, health, and social sciences to explore aging across the life course. It aims to study, understand, and apply gerontology knowledge to current and future issues that impact older adults and promote improved quality of life. With a Bachelor’s degree in Gerontology, students may pursue graduate study to enhance their skills, knowledge, and experience to advance their career in the field of aging. Gerontology graduates can pursue careers in healthcare, social services, education and research, policy and advocacy, and emerging fields that target the older adult population.

Education Outcomes

Program Objectives:

1. Understanding of the study of aging that examines the physical, mental, and social changes in individuals as they grow from middle age through later life.
2. Recognizes how an aging population influences and impacts society and finds ways to apply this understanding to improve policies and programs.
3. Develops strategies for working with older adults, while considering the unique aspects of changes that occur with aging (physical, cognitive, and emotional) and learn to design and implement strategies to address challenges faced by aging individuals as well as opportunities.
4. Utilize technology to interact with aging individuals; develop appropriate case management strategies and program assessment.
5. Facilitate positive relationships when working with older adults and their families.
6. Coursework in this program prepares students for career opportunities in health facilities, mental health clinics, government agencies, and community organizations.
7. Coursework in this program prepares students to advocate for elder issues.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Students are expected to:

1. Students will reflect and evaluate attitudes toward the older adult population. Gaining understanding as to how social influences impact moral and ethical judgment as it relates to caring for this population.
2. Students become health advocates for older adult populations. Gaining knowledge that focuses on empowering older adult populations to be partners in their own care. Approaching healthcare in a holistic approach that respects sociocultural, geopolitical, and economic factors. 
3. Students engage in utilizing social media, technology, and other communication resources that support optimal environments to assist older adults in the improvement of life quality.
4. Students will train/intern in institutions that provide services to individuals, families, and/or communities. Carrying out and coordinating safe, quality care for older adults in different care settings.
5. Students will utilize principles of research to formulate research projects that seek to contribute to the literature on community-based education interventions for this older adult population.

Graduation Requirements

All students are encouraged to earn a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher for all courses required to complete their program. However, for course credit toward graduation in a major area, students must earn at least a “C” grade. Before graduation, each student must pass an exit examination covering the major subject areas of their major and complete a senior-level research paper. A minor shall consist of at least 18 Semester Hours, and the grade “C” (2.0) or better for all classes taken toward the minor must be earned. A student must complete a minimum of six credits of coursework exclusive to the minor.

Programs

• Gerontology, B.S.

• Gerontology Minor

Return to: College of Nursing and Health Sciences