Gerontology (Minor)

Department of Family & Consumer Sciences

CSULB is one of 10 CSU campuses to offer a minor in Gerontology. The minor is a 15-unit program that provides students with a specialization that can be applied to their major area of study. In addition to 2 required Gerontology courses and an internship, students may choose among a comprehensive list of electives from departments across campus. Upon completion of the Gerontology minor, students will be able to:

  • Relate gerontology concepts and principles to issues within their major field of study
  • Explain ageism within their major field of study and generate techniques to dispel ageism and age-based discrimination
  • Apply theories of adult growth and development, biological changes with aging, and culture and aging within their major field of study, using the biopsychosocial model as an organizing framework
  • Apply concepts and skills related to aging in field experiences with older adults and families

Students working on either the certificate or minor complete a 120-hour internship to reinforce classroom material and provide a hands-on opportunity to work with older adults in a variety of settings such as senior centers, assisted living facilities, hospice, non-profit organizations, and government settings. Many courses include a service learning component, providing additional opportunities for real-life, real-time, out-of-classroom learning.

Degree Level
Minor
Program Delivery
On-Campus
Area(s) of Study
Development (child, adolescent, human, gerontology, or family)
Accreditations
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities (WSCUC)
Department Chair