This is the preliminary (or launch) version of the 2025-2026 VCU Bulletin. Courses that expose students to cutting-edge content and transformative learning may be added and notification of additional program approvals may be received prior to finalization. General education program content is also subject to change. The final edition and full PDF version will include these updates and will be available in August prior to the beginning of the fall semester.
Program goal
The Department of Gerontology serves the people of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the nation by providing educational programs related to understanding and promoting optimal aging. The department encourages education through discovery of new knowledge, interdisciplinary interaction, professional behavior and service to the organizations serving older individuals. The department’s primary focus is to prepare individuals for positions in the network of aging services. Gerontologists are educated to support optimal aging for older persons, families, and caregivers. The certificate program provides quality education to those already working with older adults and wish to enhance their skills with formal academic training in gerontology and individuals new to the field or with training in other professions.
The program’s goal is to ensure that graduates can demonstrate the ability to apply core gerontological concepts according to the Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education Core Concepts. The Certificate in Aging Studies program offers a fully online delivery format.
Student learning outcomes
- Articulate and integrate the physical and psychosocial experiences inherent in the multidimensional experience of aging
- Critically evaluate major societal challenges and opportunities resulting from population aging
- Describe the bio-psycho-social changes that occur with aging
- Articulate the ways that social processes, places and policies shape aging
- Articulate the skills necessary for success in government, private-sector, and non-profit positions that require the integration of gerontological knowledge and practice
- Articulate person-centered attitudes about aging and elderhood
- Critique communications and policies, to increase opportunities for DEI justice and belonging related to age inclusivity
Degree requirements
The focus of the curriculum is designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of individuals in holistic, biopsychosocial-spiritual aging and longevity and to provide an exploration of issues related to social roles and intersectionality and how they impact aging. The curriculum also focuses on positive aging among diverse populations and career opportunities in gerontology.
| Course | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required courses | ||
| GRTY 200 | Disrupting Ageism: An Exploration of Diversity and Aging | 3 |
| GRTY 300 | Human Longevity: An Exploration of Career Opportunities | 3 |
| GRTY 410 | Perspectives on Aging | 3 |
| Total Hours | 9 | |
The minimum number of graduate credit hours required for this certificate is 9.
Recommended course sequence/plan of study
| Fall semester | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| GRTY 410 | Perspectives on Aging | 3 |
| GRTY 300 | Human Longevity: An Exploration of Career Opportunities | 3 |
| Term Hours: | 6 | |
| Spring semester | ||
| GRTY 200 | Disrupting Ageism: An Exploration of Diversity and Aging | 3 |
| Term Hours: | 3 | |
| Total Hours: | 9 | |
Students who complete the requirements for this program will receive a Certificate in Aging Studies.