Graduate Certificate in Aging Studies

Become a Leader in Aging Care.

Mission

The Graduate Certificate in Aging Studies (AGST) program is open to students who have a Bachelor's degree or higher. The program is designed to meet the needs of professionals interested in the aging population or who may currently work in the field of aging, but would like to increase or formalize their knowledge.

Learning Outcomes

  • Students will be able to integrate multidisciplinary theories of aging in practical interactions with older adults in various settings.
  • Students will be able to evaluate how age-related changes, disease, and self-perception influence physical, psychological, and social health and function.
  • Students will be able to identify and analyze personal, professional, and societal views and biases influencing the aging experience.

Credits earned in the Graduate Certificate program may be applied to the Master of Science in Aging Studies degree or may be eligible for transfer into another graduate or post-professional program, plan of study, or curriculum.

The Graduate Certificate in Aging Studies may be combined with other UIndy graduate programs in a dual program, allowing students to earn multiple credentials using less time and money.

Learn More

Graduate Certificate in AGST Program Details

 

Program Length & Format

The Graduate Certificate in Aging Studies is a self-paced program consisting of 12 credit hours. It is delivered completely online, making it accessible to students regardless of geographic location. The online delivery allows students to work toward set deadlines on a schedule that works for them. The program can be completed within three semesters, but you have up to three years to complete all of your courses.

Learn more about online learning in graduate agst programs

Our AGST Faculty

learn more about the agst faculty & staff

Course Descriptions

All required courses are 8-week, online courses.

  • GERO 501 - Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Aging (3 credits)
    The GERO 501 course provides the student with an introduction and overview of the multi-disciplinary field of gerontology including terminology, theoretical perspectives, research and demography, public policy, ageism, history of the study of aging, cross-cultural study of aging, end-of-life issues, spirituality, career exploration and professional ethics. Course investigations and projects will require students to explore personal value systems and perceptions of aging.
  • GERO 505 - Physical Dimensions of Aging (3 credits)
    The GERO 505 course will study the effects of aging on body systems and the influence of such changes on health and function. It will include opportunities for designing strategies that facilitate healthy aging. Learning experiences will be connected to real-world situations and are designed to facilitate reflection, critical thinking, and application of principles learned.
  • GERO 520 - Psychology of Aging (3 credits)
    The GERO 520 course examines psychological aging in terms of change processes. Psychological theories of aging will be covered as well as the content areas of cognition, personality, and mental health. Students will examine normal and pathological psychological development in these domains, and some of the factors that may influence variations in aging trajectories, including interventions. Several issues in the psychology of aging will be addressed such as suicide and recognizing the difference between dementia, delirium, and depression.
  • GERO 510 - Aging Individual in Society & Community (3 credits)
    The GERO 510 course will examine aging from both macro and micro perspectives to explore how the aging individual is affected by social and cultural forces, and in turn, how the aging population affects the greater society. Students will draw upon sociological perspectives to increase our understanding of applied and theoretical issues in aging, examine the social aspects of aging through roles and relationships, and explore aging as it is related to social institutions and the concept of "community."
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Alum Story
Megan Huber headshot
Megan Huber
Dual MOT & Graduate Certificate in AGST program graduate, Class of 2024

The Graduate Certificate in AGST at UIndy has enriched my career as an occupational therapist. It deepened my understanding of older adults' challenges and positioned me for effective, person-centered client interventions. The program has helped me be more aware of emerging trends in older adult care and educated me on how to advocate for improved services and policies.

Graduate Certificate in AGST Admission Requirements

To apply for the Graduate Certificate in Aging Studies, you will need:

  • A completed online application
  • $25 application fee for graduate programs
  • A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • Official transcripts for your highest degree earned from a regionally accredited institution, from the conferring university or an electronic service (such as Parchment or Student Clearinghouse), demonstrating a cumulative 3.0 GPA or higher.
  • Resume or curriculum vitae
  • A personal statement explaining your interest in aging studies and how you plan to use the certificate in your future work (1000 - 1500 words) 

Additional requirements for international applicants

when can I start?

Students may begin the certificate program at the start of any semester: Fall, Winter, or Summer.

  • August Start: The application deadline is August 1
  • January Start: The application deadline is December 1
  • May Start: The application deadline is April 1

If you have additional questions, please contact the College of Health Sciences Admissions Counselors (chsadmissions@uindy.edu).

Tuition & Aid

Stay Informed About This Program

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