Ageing Studies

Study type:Part-time Languages: English
Local:$ 3.5 k / Year(s) Foreign:$ 3.5 k / Year(s) Deadline: Jan 15, 2026
StudyQA ranking:2115 Duration:36 months

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Description

The master's in Ageing Studies has been produced by Aims

The programme in Ageing Studies aims to:

  • Develop a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in ageing both biologically, psychologically and socially

  • Build your skills to appreciate and resolve ethical dilemmas involved in working with an elderly person

  • Help you to understand and critically evaluate the efficacy of therapies and services provided for elderly people with cognitive and physical impairments

  • Develop awareness of social policy and ways in which policies and politics affect and change the lives of elderly people

  • Acquire skills necessary to analyse and critically evaluate gerontology related research

  • Develop skills necessary to conduct research in social gerontology

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline January 15 Tuition fee
  • GBP 3500 Year (EEA)
  • GBP 3500 Year (Non-EEA)

Masters (MSc): £3,500 part-time

Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip): £3,000

Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert): £2,500 Start date September 2015 Duration full-time 36 months Languages Take an IELTS test
  • English
Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Part-time Intensity Flexible

Course Content

Year 1 – PG Certificate in Ageing Studies

Introduction to Ageing StudiesThis module will provide you with a general introduction to social gerontology, and to the sensory and physiological changes that occur with ageing.

Psychological and Sociological Aspects of AgeingYou will analyse major findings from studies of the psychology of human ageing, e.g. intelligence and personality changes. In addition, you will explore socialisation, role changes, social class, race and ethnicity, interpersonal relations, dependency and interdependency in relation to ageing.

Year 2 – PG Diploma in Ageing Studies

Legal and Ethical Issues in Treatment and CareYou will examine legal and ethical issues associated with treatment and care of elderly people. These include methods of handling the personal and financial affairs of incapacitated elderly people, and withholding and withdrawing medical treatment. The efficacy of various interventions will also be examined in relation to resource allocation.

Politics and Policy in an Ageing SocietyYou will study the politics of ageing and the development of age-based policies in the United Kingdom. Topics to be considered include pensions, housing policies, community care and the role of values in policy making.

Year 3 – Masters in Ageing Studies

DissertationA dissertation of 20,000-26,000 words is required to obtain the MSc in Ageing Studies. We will provide workshops in research methods to support your dissertation project.

Typical Dissertations

  • Terminal sedation: Perceptions of nurses and doctors

  • Barriers to the use of public transport by elderly people

  • Decision-making in relation to the detection and prevention of financial elder abuse

  • Giving up driving: Conflict between older drivers and their adult children

  • The role of alcohol in the lives of older women

  • Intergenerational transfer of wealth

  • Changes in Memory, Learning and Intelligence with Age

  • Am I My Father's Keeper?: Intergeneration Equity in the 21st Century

  • Rationing Health Services by Age: Legal, Ethical and Policy Perspectives

  • Family Care of People with Dementia: An in-depth exploration of the views of daughters caring for fathers

  • Biological Mechanisms Linking Psycho-Social Factors and Successful Ageing

  • The Role of Services in Delaying and Preventing Institutionalisation of Elderly People

  • Pensions and Poverty: A Comparison of the United Kingdom and the United States

  • Ageism amongst Health and Social Care Professionals

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 7

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

take an IELTS test. More About IELTS

Requirements

2:1 degree in a relevant subject or international equivalent (eg nursing, social work, medicine, social science, allied health, law). Non-standard degrees/qualifications may be considered in special circumstances. Applications from health professionals and mature students welcome.

English Language Requirements

  • IELTS: 7 (min 6.5W, 6.5L, 6.5R, 6.5S)

  • Pearson: 64 (58 in all subscores)

  • BrunELT: 70% (65% in all areas)

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

  • Academic Excellence Scholarship

    "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

  • Access Bursary

    Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

  • Alumni Bursary

    Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Brunel University.

Ageing Studies at Brunel University London offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach to understanding the various aspects of ageing and older adults. The programme aims to equip students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to address the social, psychological, and health-related challenges associated with ageing populations. This master's degree is designed for individuals interested in careers within social care, policy development, research, and health services related to older people. The curriculum covers a range of topics including the biological aspects of ageing, social theories related to ageing, healthcare systems impacting older populations, and ethical considerations in working with ageing individuals. Throughout the course, students have opportunities for practical placements and research projects that enhance their understanding of real-world issues faced by older adults. Brunel University's location in London provides students with access to a diverse urban environment and numerous resources for research and community engagement. The programme fosters critical thinking, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to develop innovative solutions to complex societal problems associated with ageing. Graduates of the programme are well-prepared to work in a variety of settings such as healthcare organizations, social services, policy institutions, and research agencies. The degree also provides a foundation for those interested in pursuing further academic studies or research projects in the field of ageing. Brunel’s Ageing Studies programme emphasizes an inclusive and multidisciplinary approach, ensuring students are equipped with a wide range of skills to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of older populations. The university employs experienced lecturers and practitioners from related fields to deliver engaging seminars, workshops, and coursework that reflect current issues and developments in ageing research and practice. Overall, this programme is ideal for individuals committed to making a positive impact on the lives of older adults and advancing knowledge in this vital and expanding area of societal importance.

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