gerontology student with patient

Gerontology Minor

Help the world's aging population tackle mental, social and physical challenges.

Prepare to make a lasting impact on older generations with UND's minor in Gerontology. This interdisciplinary minor in gerontology enhances professionals’ capacity to work with older persons.

Program type:
Minor
Format:
On Campus
Est. time to complete:
2 years
Credit hours:
18

Why minor in Gerontology?

As people continue to live longer, the aging population faces a variety of challenges, including managing finances, maintaining health and wellness, and continuing employment. Make an impact on their lives by providing care and compassion.

The minor in Gerontology is versatile, transcending the healthcare sector and complementing a variety of academic disciplines. Students from diverse fields looking to enrich their understanding of the aging population—a demographic that is rapidly expanding—will find this minor beneficial. It is particularly applicable to those pursuing careers in healthcare, social services, community planning, and wellness. This interdisciplinary minor is a valuable addition to several majors, including:

For students in these majors, the Gerontology minor offers insights into the aging process, equipping them with specialized knowledge that can enhance their capacity to serve an aging population effectively and with empathy.

Gerontology Minor at UND

  • Our interdisciplinary approach allows you to tailor courses to your interests.

  • Enjoy close, collaborative relationships with faculty.

  • Develop knowledge, values and skills that equip you to work with older generations.

Gerontology Minor Courses

PSYC 355. Adulthood and Aging. 3 Credits.

Basic findings and theoretical issues in the study of human aging from biopsychological and socio-psychological perspectives with an emphasis on the individual. Prerequisite: PSYC 111 plus 3 credits of psychology. F,SS.

SOC 352. Aging and Society. 3 Credits.

An introduction to the multidisciplinary study of aging as a lifelong process. Biological, psychological, and sociological theories are reviewed to understand human development over the life course, including the transitions of marriage, work, retirement, and death. Demographic and social structural influences are also discussed in order to examine the effect of an aging population on society. F,S.

PHIL 120. Introduction to Ethics. 3 Credits.

This course investigates the nature of the Good Life, of moral principles, and the application of moral systems to contemporary debate. These may include questions about the morality of war, capital punishment, sexual behavior, welfare, and so forth. F,S.

SWK 313. Orientation to Gerontology. 2 Credits.

This course introduces students to the field of gerontology, emphasizing the unique needs and experiences of older adults. Students will explore key theories of ageing, the demographic trends influencing the aging populations and the role of interdisciplinary teams in supporting the needs of old adults. The course covers various programs and services designed to enhance the quality of life for older individuals. Students will gain insight into the complexities of aging and the importance of a holistic, collaborative approach in gerontological practice. F.

PSYC 421. Diversity Psychology. 3 Credits.

Origins and consequences of psychological differences among individual and groups with special emphasis on sex differences and racial differences. Prerequisite: PSYC 111, PSYC 241, and PSYC 250 or consent of instructor. S, odd years.

SOC 354. Medical Sociology. 3 Credits.

An examination of the social contexts of health and health care, including the political, economic, and environmental circumstances that shape illness and access to care. This includes a focus on medical institutions as social systems affected by social movements and social change, as well as the social forces that shape patient-provider interactions and the quality of care received. Implications for public policy and practice are considered. On demand.

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