Apr 16, 2025  
2019/2020 University Catalog 
    
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2019/2020 University Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Applied Gerontology Certificate

(Offered only in the College of Extended Studies)

This program is designed for persons working in the field of aging as well as those interested in obtaining employment in the aging field. Completion of the certificate program will enable participants to assume greater responsibility by broadening their knowledge of and skill in this specialty area. More specifically, the program is designed to provide the following:

  1. A broad knowledge base in the bio-psycho-social aspects of aging.
  2. Practical knowledge and skills in the application of this information towards services for older people.
  3. Knowledge of government programs and program planning and evaluation techniques.
  4. Knowledge of programs and services operating in local areas as well as gaps which exist in local programming.
  5. Knowledge and skills needed to function in an advocacy capacity to improve services to the elderly.

Certificate Requirements

  1. Complete 18 semester units of coursework with a grade point average of 2.0 or better.
  2. Complete coursework within four years after admission to the program.
  3. Petition the College of Extended Studies for the certificate upon completion of 18 semester units.

To be admitted to the program, students are expected to show by previous coursework and/or experience some evidence of potential for completing the academic program. Previous courses in gerontology taken at SDSU or at other universities will be considered for credit toward certification on an individual basis, but not to exceed nine units.

The School of Social Work is responsible for the coordination of the certificate program in conjunction with the College of Extended Studies. Admission applications may be obtained from the College of Extended Studies. Applications may be submitted prior to entering the program or before the completion of nine semester units of coursework.

Students are required to submit an Open University Registration Form each semester to the College of Extended Studies.

Students accepted into the program will be assigned an adviser by the School of Social Work.

Required Courses for the Certificate Program

A minimum of 12 semester units must be selected from four of the five following areas inclusive of the practicum:

I. Introduction to Gerontology

II. Biological Aspects of Aging

III. Psychological Aspects of Aging

IV. Sociological Aspects of Aging

V. Practicum

Elective Courses

A minimum of six semester units selected from the following: