Gain Interdisciplinary Expertise to Lead in Aging Services
The certificate in gerontology at WSU Vancouver provides a comprehensive, interdisciplinary framework designed to build a deep understanding of the social, physical, and emotional facets of aging. Offered collaboratively through the Department of Human Development and the Program in Aging, this credential reflects a rigorous standard of specialized training and hands-on experience in adult development.
Students examine the contemporary issues and systemic challenges facing older adults while completing targeted coursework and internships. This professional certificate prepares individuals to meet the expanding demands of an aging population, equipping them with the practical skills required to improve quality of life and delivery of services across multiple healthcare and community sectors.
About the Certificate
The interdisciplinary certificate in gerontology combines structured academic study with real-world application. To successfully earn the certificate, students must complete specific foundational courses, a dedicated professional internship, and elective credits, while maintaining an overall GPA of 2.6 or better in all courses that count toward the credential. The specific requirements include:
- Core Coursework Requirements: HD 405, HD 497, and HD 498.
- Experiential Learning Requirement: A supervised professional internship focused explicitly on gerontological training and adult development services.
- Elective Coursework Requirement: 15 credits selected from an approved list of interdisciplinary courses.