(available through distance education only)

Contact: Kim Misenhelter
E-mail: gpidea@ksu.edu
Home Page: www.k-state.edu/gerontology/distance.htm

Gerontology is the most recent addition to interinstitutional graduate programs offered through the Great Plains Distance Education Alliance (GP-IDEA), a consortium of universities that have come together to offer post-baccalaureate programs through distance education to students whose family or career keeps them from completing an on-campus graduate degree or certificate. The 21-credit gerontology certificate program is designed to prepare professionals who are either working directly with older people or who are involved in education or research related to aging issues. Professionals offering direct services often are involved in health promotion programs; directing intergenerational activities; managing senior centers or retirement communities; counseling older people and their families; and helping people plan for retirement. Professionals involved in education and research may evaluate community-based services; teach others about the aging process; develop policies and programs to serve the needs of older adults; work with business and industry on issues related to an aging work force; and consumer education.

Universities collaborating on the gerontology certificate program are Colorado State University, Iowa State University, Kansas State University, Montana State University, North Dakota State University, Oklahoma State University, and Texas Tech University. Students select a “home” institution through which they will apply to the program and enroll. Students will then take courses taught by their home institution as well as the other cooperating universities. The program has been designed to provide students with the core competencies identified by the Association for Gerontology in Higher Education.

The certificate program consists of five required three-credit courses, listed below. The remaining six credits can be taken from other core courses or from gerontology electives offered through GP-IDEA or at the home institution (with prior approval). Up to three credits of practicum experience may be included in the certificate program.

The certificate program has been designed for students who seek a credential in gerontology and who do not need a master’s degree.