Gerontology — M.S.

Program director
Kimberly Freeman

Closed to admission for the 2023-2024 academic year.

Gerontology is the multidisciplinary-multidimensional study of aging and aging processes. Emphasis is placed on the knowledge and skills required for competent practice, with considerable attention given to understanding the social, cultural, and economic factors that affect services for this population.

Mission

The mission of the Gerontology Program is to provide graduate-level education for current and future professionals who are dedicated to enhancing the lives of older adults through evidenced-based interventions. 

Program learning outcomes

By the end of this program, the graduate should be able to:

1. Integrate human behavior and developmental theories of aging, incorporating a bio-psycho-social-spiritual strength-based orientation to geriatric practice.
2. Use research in evaluating the effectiveness of practice and programs in achieving intended outcomes for older adults.
3. Integrate into practice intersectionality and the unique needs of older adults belonging to specific racial, ethnic, socioeconomic groups; of men and women; and of those with different sexual orientations.
4. Demonstrate professional ethics in proving assistance to older adults.
5. Effectively implement evidenced-based interventions that enhance the lives of older adults.
6. Follow policies that shape and regulate the continuum of care and services available to older adults.

General overview

The 48-unit program provides students with a balance of academic, experiential, and research activities essential for work with older adults. The curriculum begins with 22 units of foundational coursework divided into three professional areas of study: gerontology, religion and wholeness, and social research methods. During the final year of study, students complete geriatric practice courses along with specialized selectives. The curriculum allows students to develop their knowledge and skills in locating and providing resources, services, and opportunities for older adults and their families, as well as a problem-solving approach supporting the development of coping skills for older adults and their caregivers. Students are required to have a laptop computer. For computer specifications, see the department website.

In addition to the above, students are given either a thesis or a non-thesis professional practicum option.

1. Thesis: completion of six research-related units and five units of selectives.
2. Nonthesis: completion of a practical orientation, 540 hours of integrated practicum and seminar, and 11 units of didactic selectives.

Closed to admission for the 2023-2024 academic year.

In addition to Loma Linda University admission requirements, this program follows the admission requirements of the School of Behavioral Health, as follow:

1. A four-year baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university.
2. U.S. Citizenship
3. A personal statement
4. At least three letters of recommendation—preferably one of which is from an academic source and one from a work supervisor.
5. Meet the minimum academic and professional compatibility criteria established by the program. These criteria include:
   • A cumulative undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 or above (on a 4.0 scale). Applicants with lower grade point averages will be considered if the last 45-quarter credits (30 semester units) of non-field practica coursework shows significant improvement or if they have additional attributes that demonstrate preparedness and an appropriate fit for graduate education in Gerontology and geriatric practice.  Further consideration will also be given to individuals who provide evidence of additional graduate coursework, certifications, and/or training that illustrate preliminary preparation for a career in gerontology. Students who are admitted to the Gerontology Program with a cumulative G.P.A. below 3.0 may be required to participate in individualized academic assessment and a targeted learning assistance program.
   • Demonstration, through the application and interview processes, of compatibility with professional standards set by the Program including the ability to develop and nurture interpersonal relationships, communication skills, self-awareness, professional comportment, critical thinking skills, fit with the mission and values of Loma Linda University and the Department of Social Work and Social Ecology, and the capacity to successfully complete the Master of Science in Gerontology curriculum.

Closed to admission for the 2023-2024 academic year.

The 48-unit curriculum for the Master of Science degree in Gerontology provides the mix of academic, experiential, and research activities essential for M.S. degree students.

A grade of B or better indicates a student has mastered knowledge, skills, and professional practice performance competencies outlined by the program. In order to progress successfully through the program and complete the degree, students must meet the G.P.A. and course repeat expectations set by the School of Behavioral Health in the general regulations section of this CATALOG.

¹

Professional practicum and seminar units are not calculated into total didactic units required for the degree.

²

Fulfills service learning requirement

Normal time to complete the program

Two (2) years (seven [7] academic quarters) — based on full-time enrollment; part time permitted.