Gerontology – Aging Studies and Services Vocational Program

The Gerontology – Aging Studies and Services Vocational Program at MSJC prepares students to promote and contribute to the wellness of an aging population. After completion, graduates are prepared for employment in a variety of aging-related careers. The program is designed using an interdisciplinary perspective on aging and older adults. Students are trained in the best practices of gerontological education, research, and practice. The program prepares graduates to meet the needs of an aging world while improving the lives of older adults. Students will gain skills to promote positive aging and help older adults optimally age. 

The projected graduate of the program is 40 students to complete an associate degree. There will be 60 students in the program at one time with first year and second year students combined

1. Understand advanced interdisciplinary evidence-based knowledge, skills, values, and current trends as a basis for competent gerontological practice.

2. Demonstrate highly developed critical thinking when analyzing diverse and complex aging issues and outcomes for elders, families, and society from an interdisciplinary perspective that is grounded in the sciences, social sciences, and humanities.

3. Synthesize and apply a variety of learned interdisciplinary theories and research in gerontological settings.

4. Exhibit social and cultural awareness, sensitivity, respect, and support of multiple perspectives when interacting with others.

5. Demonstrate personal and social responsibility, and ethical and professional behavior in all settings.

6. Exhibit effective use of basic communication (written, oral and interpersonal) skills and information technology needed in a global information society.

At the completion of an AS degree in Gerontology at MSJC, students will be able to:

• Explain the key sociological, psychological, and biological concepts associated with the study of aging and older adults
• Apply theoretical perspectives to analyze current and historical topics associated with aging
• Evaluate the family, government, and community support systems for diverse as well as vulnerable groups of aging individuals
• Demonstrate knowledge and skills in one of the suggested pathways of study within the Gerontology Program:
• Caregiving
• Memory Care
• Health and Age Tech

The MSJC Gerontology-Aging Studies Program does not require pre-requisite courses for admission.

Certificate

Gerontology Certificate - 6 Units 

·      Introduction into Social Gerontology: Aging in Contemporary Society (3)

·      Diversity & Ethics (3) (area F)

Gerontology Core – 18 Units– 100 and 200 level (area B2) – inclusive in Gen Ed

·      Introduction into Social Gerontology: Aging in Contemporary Society (3) (area E)

·      Diversity & Ethics (3) (area F)

·      End-of-Life Issues (3)

·      Aging Policy and Practice (3)

Caregiving Employment Concentration Certificate  – 6Units (Job Title: Caregiver/Care Aide) – 100 and 200 level

·      Fundamentals of Caring for Older Adults (3)

·      Resources and Services for Older Adults (3)

Memory Care Certificate of Achievement – 6 Units – (Job Title: Dementia Specialist) -100 and 200 level

·      Introduction to Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias (3)

·      Mental Health and the Older Adult(3)

Health and Aging Technology Certificate of Achievement Job Title: Health/Age Tech Specialist)– 6 Units - 100 and 200 level

·      Introduction to Gerontechnology (3)

·      Healthcare Technology (3)

Fieldwork– 3 units

·      Gerontology Fieldwork Experience  (3) – Internship – level 500

General Elective Course Options – 24 Units (select 8 courses)

Suggested courses – there are additional courses students can take -consult academic advisors

HS-121            Fundamentals of Healthful Living (3)

HS-120            Introduction to Public Health (3)

ENGL-101 College Composition (4)

COMM-100 Public Speaking (3)

NUTR-100 Family Nutrition (3)

COMM-117 Organizational Communication (3)

PE-195            Introduction to Kinesiology (3)

CCNA 1 Computer Networks (3)

CSIS-160 Information Security Systems (3)

CUL-710 Entrepreneurship and Hospitality Management (2)

AH-105  Medical Terminology  (3)

CORR-101  Introduction to Correctional Science  (3)

ETHS-280  Multiethnic Literature (3)

PE-115  First Aid and CPR  (3)

PE-120  Beginning Yoga(3)