You are in the official 2003-2004 General Catalog
for California State University, Fresno.
Gerontology Program
College of Health and Human Services
LINDA J. HEWETT, Director
To be announced, Department Administrative Assistant
Psychology and Human Services, Room 138
(559) 278-8465 or 278-4212
http://www.csufresno.edu/gerontology/
Minor in Gerontology
Gerontological Specialist Certificate
Gerontology
Gerontology is the study of aging. Our nation's steadily increasing older
population is creating a unique demand for well educated individuals to
understand the field of aging and competent professionals to work with elders.
The Gerontology Program offers a minor and a certificate in gerontology.
Both are designed to prepare students to address unmet and urgent needs
in this rapidly developing field. Special majors can also be arranged for
the student who wishes to concentrate on gerontology. The Gerontology Program
attracts undergraduate students from all academic areas, reentry students,
graduate students within social science and health professions, service
providers, and elders seeking greater understanding of this stage of life.
The study of aging is based upon many important theories and concepts of
aging, which are presented through an organized course of study. Core courses
- gerontology and cross-listed interdisciplinary - are designed to present
comprehensive biological, psychological, cultural and sociological theories
related to the lifelong aging process. The influence of heritage, culture,
and creativity are emphasized. The program presents information related
to Healthy People 2010, services and resources; housing and environment;
disabilities and rehabilitation; federal, state, and local agencies; and
social policies and programs for elders.
Students have the opportunity to develop empathy for older adults as they
explore communication and interaction with elders through community service,
internships and service learning. Current research findings are presented
and research opportunities are available. There is an active student Gerontology
Club.
Program Responsibilities
The Gerontology Program is responsible for the Gerontology Minor, Gerontological
Specialist Certificate, and a variety of activities and conferences on aging.
Other programs housed within the office of the Gerontology Program include
the California Geriatric Education Center (CGEC) San Joaquin Valley Program
- a statewide interdisciplinary center supported by a grant from the Bureau
of Health Professions, Public Health Service - providing educational offerings
for health professionals and faculty; Elderhostel Program, the Fresno Learning
Activities in Retirement (FLAIR), Friendly Visitor Services, and the Gerontology
Education and Resource Center.
The Gerontology Program cosponsors the Gerontology Club, and offers continuing
education for health professionals in cooperation with the Division of Extended
Education.
Career Opportunities
The development of employment opportunities in the field of gerontology
has emerged in response to the needs of a steadily increasing older population.
Many occupational roles are available in different sites. These include
but are not limited to federal, state, county, and city agencies; senior
centers, adult day care centers; long term care facilities, intermediate
care facilities, acute care hospitals, medical centers; and senior housing
sites, retirement communities, home health agencies, hospices, legislative
bodies, and community planning agencies. New programs are developing in
eldercare, case management, and consultation in business.
There is an increased recognition of the importance of designing and providing
specialized programs in the private sector. Knowledgeable people work as
consultants in banks, travel agencies, large corporations, insurance companies,
educational agencies, publishing and broadcasting agencies, and department
stores. The field is wide open for creative and innovative individuals.
Gerontology
Courses