Gerontology, P.B.C.

The Gerontology Program prepares individuals to understand the aging process and issues related to an aging society. Graduates of our programs are prepared to apply research and theory to address the needs of older adults and equipped to be leaders in the aging services and beyond.

The mission of the Graduate Programs in Gerontology is to prepare students to apply gerontological knowledge that enriches and improves the lives of diverse older adults through inclusive, evidence-based practice.

The fully online post-baccalaureate certificate (P.B.C.) in Gerontology equips students with the knowledge and skills to work with the growing population of older adults in the 21st century. The program is designed to meet the needs of individuals who would like to increase or formalize their knowledge related to aging. The certificate is ideal for individuals who aspire to become gerontological specialists within their primary field such as social workers, health educators, recreational therapists, personal trainers, and more. The P.B.C. is available to:

• Graduate students already enrolled in a degree program at UNCG
• Certificate seeking students who hold a Bachelor’s or advanced degree

Program Distinctions

• UNCG has the only fully online graduate program in Gerontology in the state of North Carolina.
• The Gerontology program at UNCG has been named one of Today’s Best for Online Learning in Gerontology by EduMed.org (2021).

The Student Experience

• Students in the program come from a variety of academic backgrounds. 
• You can improve your resumes and differentiate yourself from your competitors. 
• Current graduate students with an interest in aging can receive specialized training in Gerontology while concurrently obtaining their degree.
• You can work and attend school as all courses are offered fully online in an asynchronous format and are structured to fit into the busy schedules of working professionals and graduate students.  
• You can earn this certificate in as little as one year.
• You must complete 12 credit hours, consisting of three core courses and one elective.

After Graduation

After graduation, students can expect to find career opportunities in the following:

• Community, human services, and religious organizations
• Health care and long-term care institutions
• Federal, state, and local government agencies
• Retirement communities
• Professional organizations
• Business and industry
• Academic and other education and research settings

Apply to Program

Additional admission requirements include:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
• Official transcripts
• Written professional statement/statement of purpose
• Video personal statement
• No GRE or entrance exam required
• TOEFL/IELTS for non-native English speakers

Undergraduate Minor

• Gerontology Undergraduate Minor