You are in the official 2008-2009 General Catalog
for California State University, Fresno.
You are in the official 2008-2009 General Catalog
for California State University, Fresno.
Minor in Gerontology
Gerontological Specialist Certificate
Gerontology is the study of aging. Our nation's steadily increasing older population is creating a unique demand for well educated individuals to serve as competent professionals in the field of aging.
The Gerontology Program offers a minor and a certificate in gerontology, both designed to prepare students to address unmet and urgent needs of elders. Special majors can also be arranged for the student. 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.
Courses 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, as are
services and resources; housing and environment; disabilities and rehabilitation;
federal, state, and local agencies; and social polices and programs for
elders. Students have the opportunity to develop empathy for older adults
as they communicate and interact with elders through community service,
internships, and service learning.
The Elderhostel Program operates in partnership with the Gerontology
Program. The Gerontology Program cosponsors the S.A.G.E. (Student Association
Gerontology Education) Club, and offers continuing education for health
professionals in cooperation with the Division of Global and Continuing
Education's Extension Programs.
The development of employment opportunities in the field of gerontology
include 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 businesses such as banks, travel agencies, large corporations,
insurance companies, educational agencies, publishing and broadcasting agnecies,
and department stores.
Gerontology
Courses