Gerontology-Aging Studies

Aging is changing, and it’s altering how we live, work, and care for older individuals. California’s over-60 population is expected to become more diverse and grow faster than any other age group. By 2030, 10.8 million Californians will be older adults, constituting one-quarter of the state’s population. Gerontology explores the life course perspective and celebrates how the world is aging. Gerontology- Aging Studies provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the aging process from biological, psychological, and social perspectives. This interdisciplinary program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to address the unique challenges and opportunities associated with aging populations. The curriculum includes foundational courses in human development, psychology of aging, social policy, and healthcare systems.

Contact Information

San Jacinto Campus
(951) 487-MSJC (6752)
1-800-624-5561
Nursing and Allied Health (951) 639-5577
nursingandah@msjc.edu 

Menifee Valley Campus
(951) 672-MSJC (6752)
1-800-452-3335
Nursing and Allied Health (951) 639-5577
nursingandah@msjc.edu 

 

Through Gerontology- Aging Studies coursework, experiential learning, and a concentration, the MSJC Gerontology- Aging Studies degree and related certificates will prepare students to:

  1. Demonstrate knowledge of relationships among older adults, their families, and society. 
  2. Apply current theory and research in the interdisciplinary field of gerontology and its role in society to asses biological. social, and psychological issues that impact older adults and those who work with and care for them.
  3. Integrate information and perspectives from various disciplines to understand the biological. social, and psychological aspects of aging related to diversity and equity shape the experience of aging.
  4. Demonstrate the ability to conduct and evaluate gerontological information and research using a variety of methods.
  5. Understand and evaluate social policy and its impact on programs and services for older adults and examine how issues.
  6. Express ideas effectively in oral and written formats.
  7. Analyze critical issues, aspects of ageism in American society and socially conscious behavior regarding the older population and apply knowledge to the field of aging.
  8. Apply acquired interdisciplinary knowledge of older adults in varied career applications, such as the design of services for older adults, patient care, and engineering and technology for independent living.

Discover in-demand careers and education options based on your interests!  See the list of careers below or explore further by searching for Careers or Programs.

Note: There are no guaranteed positions for students completing these programs. Education and work experience required will vary by employer. The salary and benefits for specific occupations will be dependent on work experience, education, background, and employer. Labor market statistics are from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Census Bureau, O-NET, EMSI.

Career/Industries CA Annual Median Salary or Range Employment Demand or Opening CA
Social and Human Service Assistants (SM, A, B, M) $48,222 8235
Recreation Workes (A, B) $36,857 10727
First-Line Supervisors of Support Workers (SM, A, B) $70,945 17543
Health Education Specialist (A, B) $71,963 1182
Administrative Services Manager (SM, A, B) $110,550 3603