Graduate Certificate in Healthy Aging

Age Well. Lead Well. Live Well.

The population is aging, and the world needs professionals who are ready. The Graduate Certificate in Healthy Aging equips students with specialized, evidence-based knowledge to support older adults across the full spectrum of their lives, promoting longevity and wellness.

Whether you work in healthcare, social services, policy, housing, or community advocacy (or are simply passionate about aging well yourself), this program delivers the interdisciplinary expertise to make a real difference. By covering the physical dimensions of aging, living environments, economics, nutrition, and policy, this certificate prepares you to thrive in the rapidly expanding longevity and healthy aging industry.

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Mission

Our mission is to advance healthy, dignified aging by preparing knowledgeable, compassionate professionals equipped to serve older adults holistically. We are committed to evidence-based education that bridges research and real-world practice, empowering graduates to improve quality of life for aging individuals and communities everywhere.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Graduate Certificate in Healthy Aging will be able to:

Examine the biology of aging — Evaluate physiological changes across body systems and synthesize how those changes affect functional health, with emphasis on the role of evidence-based nutrition in promoting longevity and wellness.
Support independence and aging in place — Analyze environmental, social, and systemic factors that influence an older adult's ability to remain independent, safe, and thriving in their own home and community.
Navigate the economics and policy of aging — Assess the micro- and macroeconomic implications of a growing older adult population on healthcare systems, public policy, and society at large.

Credits earned in this certificate program may be applied toward the Master of Science in Aging Studies, or may be eligible for transfer into another graduate or post-professional program.

Graduate Certificate in Healthy Aging Program Details

Program Length & Format

The Graduate Certificate in Healthy Aging is 9 credit hours, delivered completely online with no campus visits required. The program is self-paced, allowing students to take courses on a schedule that fits their life.

Typical completion: 3 semesters
Maximum time allowed: 3 years
Format: 100% online, 8-week courses
On-campus requirements: None

Course Descriptions

All required courses are 8-week, online courses.

Required Courses (9 credit hours)

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 541 – Aging in Place / 21st Century Issues (3 credits)
The GERO 541 course examines the concept of "aging in place", strategies that provide options for living in a community environment, policy trends & emerging issues affecting aging in place.
GERO 560 – Economics and Aging Populations (1.5 credits)
The GERO 560 course will focus on the economic issues created by demographic trends, examine the potential impact on individuals, families, and the private & the public sectors.
GERO 584 – Nutrition and Aging (1.5 credits)
The GERO 584 course provides instruction regarding nutrition needs of individuals as they age with an emphasis on disease prevention and the central role of nutrition in maintaining health.

Admission Requirements

To apply for the Graduate Certificate in Healthy Aging 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 healthy aging and how you plan to use the certificate in your future work (1000 - 1500 words)

when can I start?

Summer, Fall or Spring

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Tuition & Aid

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