Emphasis in Gerontology

The Gerontology Emphasis at California State University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the biological, psychological, social, and economic aspects of aging. The program is designed to prepare students for various careers in aging services, healthcare, social work, research, policy development, and community planning. Through coursework and practical experiences, students gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with an aging population, equipping them with the skills necessary to improve the quality of life for older adults. The curriculum covers topics such as aging processes, health promotion, age-related diseases, long-term care, ethical considerations, and innovative interventions. Students also have the opportunity to explore multicultural perspectives on aging, addressing disparities and promoting inclusive practices. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging collaboration across fields such as psychology, sociology, public health, and policy. Practical training components, including internships and community engagement projects, allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in healthcare administration, social services, research institutions, policy advocacy organizations, and community programs focused on aging populations. The university also supports students interested in pursuing advanced studies or certifications related to gerontology. Emphasizing research literacy and evidence-based practices, the program aims to produce professionals capable of developing and implementing programs that enhance the well-being and independence of older adults. Aspiring students passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of aging individuals are encouraged to join this dynamic and growing field. With a strong foundation in both theory and practice, the Gerontology program at CSU prepares graduates to meet the complexities of aging in diverse communities, contributing meaningfully to societal well-being and advancing the health and dignity of older populations.

Common Core (39)

BIOL 210 - Human Anatomy and Physiology I Units: 4

BIOL 211 - Human Anatomy and Physiology II Units: 4

CHEM 110 - Chemistry of Life Units: 4

HLTH 100 - Medical Terminology Units: 1

HLTH 101 - Overview of Health Care Industry and Its Delivery Units: 3

HLTH 102 - Community Health Organizations and Their Functions Units: 2

HLTH 300 - Nutrition, Exercise and Wellness Units: 3

HLTH 301 - Introduction to Public Health Administration Units: 3

HLTH 302 - Introduction to Health Care Informatics Units: 3

NRS 348 - Healthy Aging (Cross-listed as PSY 348, SOC 348) Units: 3

SOC 303 - Statistical Applications in the Social Sciences (Cross-listed as PSY 303, POLS 303) Units: 4

BIOL 203 - Quantitative Methods for Biology (3, B3, B4) or MATH/ PSY 202-Biostatistics (3, B3) taken as pre-nursing student at CI may be accepted for Health Science major in lieu of SOC 303.

Complete 2 units of the following:

HLTH 492 - Service Learning in Health Sciences Units: 1-2

HLTH 494 - Independent Research Units: 1-2

HLTH 497 - Directed Study Units: 1-2

and

HLTH 499 - Senior Capstone Project Units: 3

Gerontology Emphasis (24)

BIOL 305 - Biology of Aging Units: 3

HLTH 303 - Pharmacology and Aging Adults Units: 3

HLTH 304 - Aging Policy and Politics (Cross-listed as POLS 304) Units: 3

HLTH 305 - Therapeutic Recreation for Older Adults Units: 3

HLTH 306 - Mental Health and Aging Units: 3

HLTH 400 - Health Assessment and Case Management of Older Adults Units: 3

HLTH 401 - Management of Long-Term Care Facilities and Programs Units: 3

PSY 375 - Psychology of Health Counseling Units: 3

International Freshmen Checklist  

International Transfer Checklist 

Financial Affidavit for Undergraduate applicants 

Submit all application documents to the Center for International Affairs. 

*Transfer Students: We are currently accepting applications from all community colleges in the U.S.  Please make sure that you have at least 60 units and have completed “Oral communication”, “Written communication”, “Critical thinking” and “College level mathematics/quantitative reasoning” with “C” or better.  Please note that the Nursing programs are closed for international students.  

English Score

Submit the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or other acceptable test (see below for list of tests).  Scores must be sent directly to CSUCI from testing agency.

Acceptable English Placement Exams

TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language with a minimum Paper-Based score of 500, a minimum Computer Based score of 173 or a minimum Internet Based score of 61.

IELTS – International English Language Test System with an overall band score of 6.0.

*Transfer students: It’s not necessary to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score if you have completed the required Freshman Composition Class at your community college.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The California State University system offers various financial aid options for students enrolled in the Gerontology emphasis program. These include federal and state grants such as the Federal Pell Grant, which does not require repayment and is awarded based on financial need. Additionally, the Cal Grant program provides state-funded scholarships for qualified students, covering tuition fees and offering stipends for educational expenses. Students can also apply for institutional scholarships and departmental awards specific to the CSU campus they attend, which may support students focusing on Gerontology. Work-study programs are available, allowing students to work part-time on or off campus to help fund their education while gaining relevant experience in aging services.

Federal student loans, including Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, are accessible to eligible students, offering low-interest borrowing options that can be repaid after graduation. Many campuses also participate in loan repayment assistance programs or offer financial planning counseling to help students manage their educational debt responsibly. Some universities may have partnerships with community organizations or local government agencies that provide internships or assistantship opportunities in aging-related fields, often including stipends or wages that contribute toward educational expenses.

In addition to external aid, students are encouraged to explore scholarships from private foundations related to aging and health services, which are sometimes awarded through university coordination. The university’s financial aid office provides comprehensive support to guide students through the application process, understand eligibility requirements, and maximize available resources. For international students or those with specific financial circumstances, alternative funding options such as fee waivers or private loans may be discussed depending on individual circumstances. Overall, the program’s financing studies are designed to make education in Gerontology accessible through a combination of federal, state, institutional, and private funding sources, emphasizing the university’s commitment to supporting students pursuing careers dedicated to aging populations.

The Gerontology Emphasis at California State University provides students with comprehensive knowledge and skills related to aging and the elderly population. This program is designed to prepare students for careers in a variety of fields such as healthcare, social services, policy development, and community programs aimed at older adults. The curriculum typically includes courses that cover biological, psychological, social, and economic aspects of aging, offering a multidisciplinary approach to understanding the challenges faced by seniors and the opportunities to improve their quality of life.

Students enrolled in the Gerontology Emphasis gain an understanding of aging processes, age-related health issues, caregiving, and the social policies affecting older adults. The program may also include practical experiences like internships or community service, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Emphasis areas may also focus on research methods related to aging, ethical considerations, and the development of interventions and programs to support aging populations.

The faculty involved in this program are usually experts in aging studies, healthcare, psychology, social work, and public policy. They bring extensive research and practical experience to the classroom, enriching students' learning experiences and preparing them for diverse career pathways. Graduates from the program are equipped to work in hospitals, nursing homes, community organizations, government agencies, and private sectors that serve or advocate for older adults.

California State University often emphasizes preparing students for certification or licensure in related fields, and this program may incorporate components aligned with such requirements. The program also promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, equipping students with communication and leadership skills necessary for advocacy and program development in gerontology. With the aging population increasing nationwide, experts in gerontology are in high demand, and this program aims to prepare students to meet this growing need. Overall, the Gerontology Emphasis at CSU is committed to advancing the understanding of aging and improving the well-being of older adults through education, research, and community engagement.