Did you know this is the first time in history 12,000 people are turning sixty-five each day in the United States? Talk about a gerontologist’s dream! And did you know students at UNL have access to courses that are focused on such issues as housing, palliative care, mental health, and the physical and psychological aspects of aging to prepare them to engage in thoughtful and meaningful discussions after graduation?
In addition to students who have a natural interest in working with older adults, others who may have not even considered this demographic can and do benefit from our courses.
Whether a student is majoring in business, pre-health, or even agriculture, those who have taken our courses, have complemented their UNL major with a certificate or a minor in gerontology that has led to successful admission to professional and graduate schools along with rewarding positions in the community. The people they have studied are their future customers, employees, patients, and farmers/producers.
Recent articles in the Wall Street Journal and Inside Higher Education highlight students who despite a college degree are lacking skills and are found to be underemployed. There is a growing need for students to gain real world knowledge. Gerontology internships/practicums provide students with more credibility and options for employment. And what better portfolio builder for a UNL student than time spent working with one of the fastest growing segments of the population?
For students wondering if they should pursue a gerontology minor or certificate, either is a good immersion into aging, and both are 18-hour programs (six classes), with Gero 200 qualifying as an ACE 6 course. Those wanting experience in the field will benefit from the gerontology certificate that has a 156-clock hour requirement practicum (internship) either locally or elsewhere depending on student interests. And for students successfully completing the certificate, they are issued a professional document that is suitable for framing.
Those preferring the classroom find the gerontology minor to be suited to their educational path. The gerontology minor has as its required courses Introduction to Gerontology (ACE 6), Programs and Services for Older Adults, and Psychology of Adult Development and Aging. The remaining courses are electives and align with student interests.
More details at: https://gerontology.unl.edu/undergraduate-programs