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With the average age in the population increasing, the field of gerontology is becoming more and more important in today’s society.
Gerontology is the study of aging and encompasses some of the issues that elderly people may encounter. In addition, this degree covers policy decision-making regarding aging care, as well as how aging affects different cultures and societies. Gerontologists work as caretakers, nurses, and other administrative roles to serve the aging. Gerontology is also very integrated within the field of psychology. Geropsychologists work with older patients to address issues such as depression, and to help those who are going through life changes.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of people aged 65 years or older is expected to more than double between 2012 and 2060. This will no doubt cause a significant demand for aging healthcare workers. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also states that medical and health service managers will experience a growth of about 17 percent from 2014-2024. Based on these statistics, those who possess a Master’s in Gerontology are likely to have several career options open to them.
What kind of gerontology degree should you get?
The most common master’s in gerontology degree is a master of science or a master of arts degree. Sometimes these degrees are in conjunction with other degrees, such as health administration. In general, a master’s in this field focuses on research and professional development in order to prepare people for administrative roles in the field of aging care. Most students must complete an internship or clinical hours in order to graduate. Because these programs are aimed at working professionals, some schools offer programs entirely online as well.
On the other hand, an MS in nursing with a specialization in gerontology is specifically for already registered nurses who wish to specifically continue their career as a nurse. These programs always require clinical hours to graduate. The good thing about this program is that students will be eligible to sit for advanced nursing/licensure exams upon completion of the degree.
Another option is to earn the degree online. If you are interested in that check out the rankings for Best Online Master's in Gerontology Degrees.
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How much money do people make with a degree in gerontology?
Because a degree in gerontology can take one down many paths, average salaries within the field vastly differ depending on profession. For instance, according to the Bureau Labor Statistics, healthcare social workers earn a median annual salary of $52,350 in May 2015. According to Payscale, the median annual salary for a geriatric nurse in 2016 was $60,206. Geriatric psychologists earned $70,649.
In general, people who work in clinical settings tend to make more on average and have higher earnings potential in the long run.
What can you do with a degree in gerontology?
Because gerontology is a specialized field rather than a general healthcare administration program, the majority of people work as health services assistants, social workers, nurses, health services managers, or other health care top professionals that directly work with the aging. Aging care career options are not just limited to the public sphere in places such as hospitals but are also increasingly spreading into the private sphere due to the aging population. For example, gerontologists that work in the private sphere may be a personal care assistant that makes house calls.
It is important to note that each position within gerontology might require a slightly different certification and/or licensure. For instance, nursing aids require a minimum of 75 hours of training along with an exam. Social workers must be registered within the state they wish to practice. Most schools will guide students with this process before they graduate so they can get the job they desire, along with the necessary qualifications.
What are the requirements for a degree in gerontology?
General MS or MA programs in gerontology require that the applicant has a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university, with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. Although the undergraduate degree does not have to be related to health or gerontology, students who have previous knowledge within the field will find the coursework to be significantly easier. In addition, some schools require the GRE.
Nursing programs in gerontology require a bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited university, also with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. Students must also possess an active nursing license, letters of recommendation, transcripts, resume, and a personal statement.
What are the best master’s in gerontology?
CollegeChoice has compiled the 15 best master’s in gerentology degrees based on overall institutional excellence and student success. Data was gathered from the U.S. News & World Report, Payscale, the National Center for Education Statistics’ IPEDs database, and individual college websites and rankings. Institutional excellence was based on a variety of data points such as graduation rate, entering students’ test scores, and endowment size. Student success was measured based on financial aid given, average starting salary for early grads, and tuition cost.
Best Master's in Gerontology Degrees
See our rankings methodology page.
#1 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Gerontology Degrees
University of Southern California
- Los Angeles, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners can earn their master of science in gerontology from the University of Southern California, which offers 199 master's programs. Graduates can advance their career opportunities and increase their earning potential with this degree. Candidates benefit from flexible learning options, which make it easier to work while enrolling in graduate school.
Degree-seekers complete a challenging curriculum that builds comprehensive knowledge of adult gerontology. Internships and other hands-on learning opportunities let enrollees apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. Students can specialize their adult gerontology education by choosing electives and concentrations.
University of Southern California at a Glance:
Location: Los Angeles, California
School Type: Private
Admission Rate: 11%
Graduate Tuition In State: $46,272
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $46,272
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 69%
Percent Online Enrollment
17%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#2 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Gerontology Degrees
George Washington University
- Washington, DC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners can enroll in a master of science in nursing in adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner program from George Washington University, which offers 164 master's degrees. This gerontology program strengthens enrollees' subject-specific knowledge, allowing them to pursue advanced careers. Flexible enrollment options make it easier for busy learners and working professionals to attend a graduate program.
Degree candidates complete a challenging curriculum that builds comprehensive knowledge of patient-centered care. Students complete internships and hands-on learning opportunities to complement their classroom knowledge and expand their professional networks. Faculty advisors help learners choose electives and concentrations to specialize their education.
George Washington University at a Glance:
Location: Washington, District of Columbia
School Type: Private
Admission Rate: 41%
Graduate Tuition In State: $31,770
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $31,770
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 77%
Percent Online Enrollment
22%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#3 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Gerontology Degrees
Purdue University Global-Indianapolis
- West Lafayette, IN
- 4 years
- Online
Learners interested in adult gerontology can enroll in a top-ranked master's program offered by Purdue University Global-Indianapolis. The master's in adult gerontology primary care nurse practitioner program helps students grow their career opportunities and increase their earning potential. The school's graduate programs offer flexible enrollment options, including schedules designed for working professionals.
The program uses a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes theoretical and practical approaches to adult gerontology. Degree candidates apply their classroom knowledge through internships and hands-on learning opportunities, which also build professional connections. Concentrations and electives let learners individualize the program based on their interests and professional goals.
Purdue University Global-Indianapolis at a Glance:
Location: West Lafayette, Indiana
School Type: Public
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,791
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,768
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 76%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Gerontology Degrees
Michigan State University
- East Lansing, MI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Michigan State University offers a master of science in nursing - adult gerontology clinical nurse practitioner program for students seeking career advancement. The public university, located in East Lansing, provides several enrollment options for degree-seekers, including online options designed for working professionals. Enrollees take their knowledge to the next level thanks to accessible graduate courses.
While earning a master's degree, students can access college resources and support services for assistance. Academic advisors help with course selections, while financial aid counselors connect learners with ways to pay for their education. Master's degree-seekers can also participate in training events, networking opportunities, and tutoring sessions.
Michigan State University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 126
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Admission Rate: 71%
Graduation Rate: 81%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $18,858
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $37,056
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $45,200
Percent Online Enrollment
26%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Gerontology Degrees
Kansas State University
- Manhattan, KS
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Kansas State University offers several career-focused graduate programs, including a master of science in adult gerontology. The public institution, located in Manhattan, serves degree-seekers with diverse needs by offering many enrollment options. Master's candidates complete a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes advanced adult gerontology knowledge and skills.
Learners benefit from advising and support services, including career counseling. Academic advisors help with course selections, while career counselors host workshops, offer internship programs, and provide career planning services. Master's degree-seekers can also attend networking events and access library services.
Kansas State University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 77
Total Online Master's Programs: 26
Admission Rate: 95%
Graduation Rate: 65%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,212
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,050
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $41,400
Percent Online Enrollment
27%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Gerontology Degrees
Georgia State University
- Atlanta, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Georgia State University prepares graduates for career advancement in its master of arts in gerontology program. From its Atlanta campus, the public institution enrolls degree-seekers with a variety of options, including online delivery formats. The graduate-level curriculum encourages learners to strengthen their adult gerontology skills.
Master's candidates benefit from advising and support services, including career counseling. Academic advisors help with course selections, while career counselors offer workshops, job fairs, and resume reviews. Master's degree-seekers can also take advantage of writing centers, career advising, and library services.
Georgia State University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 89
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Admission Rate: 76%
Graduation Rate: 55%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 26-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,164
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,662
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $38,100
Percent Online Enrollment
5%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Gerontology Degrees
Iowa State University
- Ames, IA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners interested in gerontology can enroll in a top-ranked master's in gerontology program offered by Iowa State University. Students gain advanced knowledge and skills in the program. At the school, graduate programs offer flexible enrollment options, including schedules designed for working professionals.
The rigorous curriculum emphasizes theoretical and practical approaches to adult gerontology. Internships and other hands-on learning opportunities let degree-seekers apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting. Faculty advisors help learners choose electives and concentrations to specialize their adult gerontology education.
Iowa State University at a Glance:
Location: Ames, Iowa
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 92%
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,758
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,720
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 90%
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $5,887
Average Price After Aid: $15,195
Percent Online Enrollment
23%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Gerontology Degrees
University of Utah
- Salt Lake City, UT
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Utah stands out for its 123 master's programs, which include a master of gerontology program. Graduates can increase their earning potential and advance their careers with this degree. Candidates benefit from flexible enrollment options, including schedules designed for full-time professionals.
During the program, learners complete a challenging curriculum that builds comprehensive knowledge of adult gerontology. Students strengthen their knowledge through internships and other hands-on learning opportunities, which also build valuable professional connections. Electives and concentrations allow learners to individualize the program around their professional goals.
University of Utah at a Glance:
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 62%
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,211
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,455
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 85%
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $7,348
Average Price After Aid: $13,739
Percent Online Enrollment
34%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#9 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Gerontology Degrees
Brenau University
- Gainesville, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Brenau University offers 31 master's degrees, including a master of science in applied gerontology that earns top marks. The program incorporates career-focused training to help students advance their professional opportunities. Candidates benefit from flexible enrollment options, including schedules designed for full-time professionals.
Learners take advanced adult gerontology classes that build a theoretical and practical understanding of the field. Internships and hands-on learning opportunities encourage students to gain varied experience while building professional connections. Concentrations and electives let learners individualize the program based on their interests and professional goals.
Brenau University at a Glance:
Location: Gainesville, Georgia
School Type: Private
Admission Rate: 58%
Graduate Tuition In State: $12,834
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,834
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 97%
Percent Online Enrollment
60%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Gerontology Degrees
University of Louisiana at Monroe
- Monroe, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Louisiana at Monroe stands out for its 24 master's programs, which include a master of arts in gerontology program. Graduates can increase their earning potential and advance their careers with this degree. Flexible enrollment options appeal to busy enrollees balancing school with work or other responsibilities.
The curriculum builds comprehensive knowledge, highlighting theoretical and practical approaches to adult gerontology. Internships and other hands-on learning opportunities let students apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. Learners meet with faculty advisors to choose electives and concentrations to individualize the adult gerontology degree.
University of Louisiana at Monroe at a Glance:
Location: Monroe, Louisiana
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 80%
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,490
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,590
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 98%
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $10,649
Average Price After Aid: $9,710
Percent Online Enrollment
43%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
