University of North Carolina Wilmington

Our gerontology program explores the sociological, physical, and psychological aspects of aging, as well as how this demographic change affects individuals, families, and society. The program is housed in the School of Health and Applied Human Sciences within the College of Health and Human Services. We have over 12 faculty affiliates from across the campus, and enjoy close interdisciplinary collaborative relationships with other UNCW programs, such as Nursing, Social Work, Recreation Therapy, and Exercise Science. We are also located in the prime coastal retirement destination of Wilmington.

We offer a Master’s of Science in Applied Gerontology (36 credit hours) and a post-baccalaureate certificate (15 credit hours), as well as a minor in gerontology. Our mission is to give students the skills and knowledge they need to help improve the well-being of older adults in their communities.

Our master's degree is a 36-credit hour program, which integrates teaching, mentoring, research, and service. A primary goal of the program is to prepare students to improve the well-being of older adults in their communities. Students complete the five courses required for the post-baccalaureate certificate. Additionally, they complete a research methods course and customize the degree program with 12 credit hours of “selectives” to meet their needs and interests. The program culminates with an applied master’s project. Many courses are online.

The 15-credit hour graduate certificate is ideal for those wishing to earn a gerontology credential to supplement another degree. It is comprised of five courses: Current Issues in Gerontology, Aging and Society, Psychology of Aging, Physiology of Human Aging, and a practicum.

The University of North Carolina at Wilmington offers an interdisciplinary minor in Gerontology which focuses on the study of older adults and the aging process. The minor is designed for students with a general interest in aging or who may be considering a career which involves working with older adults. Course work encourages students to obtain field experience in local agencies concerned with older adults.