We live in an interesting time where some students are certain of what they want to do after graduation and for others, they can’t imagine how they can have influence in the world.
In discussions with students, their major advisor has helped to shape their career. If we only had a nickel for each time an advisor’s name was mentioned for helping a student get on the right track.
We also have students who tell us it was their advisor who guided them in their career path by discussing the benefits of an education in a path such as gerontology to complement their major.
Whether their career goal includes areas such as medicine, nursing, or speech-language pathology, or more business and social science related, undergraduate students come to realize the benefits of “thinking like an aging adult.”
UNL students can enroll in Gero 200-Introduction to Gerontology (ACE 6) to gain a general understanding of what the field entails. Upper-level courses such as Gero 442-Recreation Therapy, and Gero 450-Legal Aspects of Aging can afford those wanting to either work directly with older adults or prepare for post-graduate education in such areas as law.
In addition, courses such as Gero 446-Psychology of Adult Development and Aging, Gero 485- Hospice, and Gero 452- Senior Housing provide unique insights into growth areas in business and health care. This is in addition to Gero 410 – Educational Gerontology that offers students a glimpse of how to provide educational programming for middle and older adults.
All courses count toward the certificate or minor in gerontology. Both are eighteen credit hours, with the certificate offering students a practicum (or also known as internship) to gain direct experience and a chance to gain connections with prospective employers. https://gerontology.unl.edu/academic-programs
As you support your students in planning for the spring, share with them the benefits of an education in aging (gerontology). Even those preparing to graduate in May will gain something in knowing that there are courses here and across the U.S. available to them. The following link is to a nationwide database developed by UNL gerontology research assistants. https://www.unomaha.edu/college-of-public-affairs-and-community-service/gerontology/engagement/gerontology-programs.php
More details at: https://gerontology.unl.edu/academic-programs