By 2030, more than 20% of the U.S. population is projected to be 65 or older (U.S. Census Bureau, 2020). There is an unprecedented need for knowledgeable and experienced professionals and leaders who understand the demands of an aging society—from healthcare to business, and public health and policy. The master’s in aging studies program at the University of Indianapolis imbues its students with an in-depth understanding of aging equips them with the skills and knowledge needed to work with and on-behalf of older adults in their communities.

Mission

The mission of the Aging Studies Programs is to prepare future leaders who are able to apply knowledge and skills about “best practices” regarding enhanced quality of life for older adults and their families. Graduates will possess basic theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to advance a vision of aging that is positive and holistic. 

Learning Outcomes

Students in the MS-AGST Program will:

• Apply knowledge of multidisciplinary theories of aging to common situations involving older adults.

• Examine the impact of age-related changes, disease, and self-perception on physical, psychological and social health and function.

• Analyze personal, professional, and societal views and biases that affect the experience of aging across various cultures. 
• Communicate about issues related to aging using effective interpersonal, written, and presentation skills. 
• Apply current research literature to practices involving older adults. 

Learn More

• About the Program
• Admission Requirements
• Tuition & Aid
• Meet Our Faculty

Master of Science in Aging Studies Program Details

Program Length & Format

The program is 36 credit hours. It is self-paced. Students have flexibility in scheduling how many credits to take at a time. The program can be completed within 18 months, but you have up to five years to complete all of your courses.

• Online learning in graduate AGST programs
• Aging Studies faculty & staff

Curriculum

The MS-AGST degree is completed in 36 credit hours, including:

• 18 credits of required courses 
• 9 credits of concentration track courses
• 6 credits of elective courses
• 3 credits of the capstone seminar

VIEW THE MS-AGST CURRICULUM GUIDE

course descriptions

Take a deeper look at the individual courses in our graduate-level Aging Studies programs, when they are offered, and a brief description of the course content.

VIEW THE LIST OF POTENTIAL ELECTIVES FOR MS-AGST STUDENTS

Transfer Credits

Up to 9 transfer credits may be applied if:

• The coursework was done at a graduate level at an accredited institution.
• The student received a grade of B or better.
• The courses were completed within the past ten years.
• The course content fits into the student's degree plan.

MS-AGST Admission Requirements

Programs within the Interprofessional Health and Aging Studies (IHAS) Department utilize a holistic approach to applicant review. We consider all aspects of the application, not just academic history. Students who are unsure if they are ready to matriculate into the Master of Science in Aging Studies program may take up to 6 credits as a guest student. Please contact the College of Health Sciences Admissions Counselors (chsadmissions@uindy.edu) for guidance on applying.

To apply for the Master of Science in Aging Studies program, you will need:

• A completed online application and $35 application fee
• 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.
  • NOTE: If your cumulative GPA is below a 3.0, you may be considered for admission based on other evidence of academic potential. If this is the case, we encourage you to reach out to our Admissions Counselor.
• Resume or curriculum vitae
• Two letters of recommendation
  • Formal letters from two professional references (in addition to the completion of the recommendation form). It is strongly suggested that applicants request letters from individuals who can speak specifically to your experience and competencies in a professional or academic setting. Suitable recommenders include current or former supervisors, colleagues, professors, or mentors who are familiar with your work and abilities in a relevant context, who are not also family members or close personal friends.
• A personal statement explaining your interest in aging studies and how you plan to use the degree in your future work (1000 - 1500 words)

NOTE: For students that have completed or are in the process of completing the Graduate Certificate in Aging Studies and would like to apply for the Master's degree, we will require an abbreviated application* (fee waived) and two letters of recommendation.

Additional requirements for international applicants 

When Can I Start?

Students may begin the MS-AGST 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

• View Graduate Tuition Rates
• Financial Aid for Graduate Students
• IHAS Graduate Assistantship & Scholarship

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