Gerontology, Online Master of Science
Meeting the needs of an aging population
The United States is experiencing a demographic shift. For the first time, older adults will outnumber children (U.S. Census Bureau). This change calls for leaders who can support and advocate for aging populations through programs and policies that enhance their quality of life. University of Idaho’s online Master of Science (M.S.) in Gerontology degree program positions you to influence health care delivery, social services and more while improving access to care for older adults.
Why gerontology? Elevate your career while making a difference
Complete the degree in as little as one year! Explore the key benefits of earning your master’s in gerontology online with U of I:
- A first for Idaho: As the state’s first advanced degree in gerontology, this program equips you to address Idaho’s rapidly growing aging population, projected to increase by 33% from 2012 to 2030 (Idaho Commission on Aging, Annual Report).
- Flexible, online format: Balance your education and career in a fully online program ideal for working professionals with full-time jobs in areas like nursing, social work, therapy and health care administration.
- Hands-on experience: Complete a capstone project, such as a local internship or research project through the Idaho Office of Underserved and Rural Medical Research.
- Impactful curriculum: Prepare for roles in health care, research, community advocacy and public policy with coursework aligned with the Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education’s competency categories.
Learn more about the importance of this gerontology master’s degree program.
You come into the world and you’re helpless, and you need people to help you develop. All along that continuum of life, you need help. This program is to support the final arc of the circle. That when people get older, they still have the help they need to be safely independent.Sue Anderson, Associate Professor, Associate Director of Program Development
Overview
Earn your master’s in gerontology online
University of Idaho’s online gerontology degree program is a good fit if you:
- Are passionate about improving the quality of life for aging populations.
- Aspire to lead programs or services for older adults in health care or community settings.
- Value the flexibility of an online master’s program that fits your busy schedule.
- Seek to influence health care, policy or social services for future generations.
The online M.S. in Gerontology is a 30-credit program that covers critical topics in gerontology and allows you to tailor your education to your interests through electives like:
- Community Engagement and Leisure Arts in Aging
- Pharmacological Management for Older Adults
- Program Development and Evaluation for Aging
- Rural Health and Aging
- The Business of Geriatric Care Management
The online gerontology degree takes one year to complete as a full-time student, but you have the flexibility to study part-time and begin the program in any term. You’ll take courses 100% online and end the program with a capstone project to apply your learning in a real-world setting.
Gerontology professionals are essential members of the health care workforce. They play a vital role in providing and ensuring access to quality care, planning and administering programs and making decisions about how to offer direct services for older adults.
Whether you are a health care worker, career-changer, family caregiver or professional interested in the field, U of I’s online gerontology degree prepares you for leadership positions, career advancement opportunities or further education in doctoral programs.
Tuition for the M.S. in Gerontology degree program is $6,000 per semester, for a total cost of $18,000. At $600 per credit, this online program offers the same affordable rate to all students, regardless of residency.
While program-specific scholarships are not currently available, you could be eligible for federal financial aid, educational loans and other payment options.
Connect with U of I Financial Aid.
Find ways to get involved through the School of Medical Health Professions:
- Idaho Office of Underserved and Rural Medical Research: Conduct impactful research with faculty focused on increasing care in rural and underserved areas.
- North Idaho Area Health Education Center (AHEC): Connect your education with opportunities to serve regional health needs.
- Project ECHO Idaho: Participate in virtual training to increase your knowledge as a health care professional.
As part of your capstone project, you can complete a gerontology internship in your community that aligns with your professional goals.
U of I gives preference for admission to the M.S. in Gerontology program to students with educational backgrounds in health, medicine and other related fields. Applicants must also meet the following admission requirements:
- Education Level: Bachelor's degree
- Undergraduate GPA: 3.0 (applicants with a lower GPA may be considered under specific circumstances)
- GRE: No
- TOEFL/IELTS (for international applicants): 79/6.5
- Number of References: Three
Get started — explore the application process to earn your master’s in gerontology online.
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Connect with us to learn how University of Idaho’s online Master of Science in Gerontology program can help you elevate your career and improve the quality of life for aging individuals.