Applied Gerontology

Bachelor of Science Degree

The Bachelor of Science in Applied Gerontology is offered in the Theresa Santmann School of Health Sciences at Farmingdale State College.

The field of gerontology is expanding as the number of elders in America continues to increase, quickly outpacing other segments of the population. By 2030 the older population will be more than twice their number from 2000. With over 13% of Americans currently over the age of 65 and projected to be 19% in 2030, our society will be facing crucial issues about aging which will impact the lives of most Americans.

The Applied Gerontology program aims to improve the quality of life of the aged. Central issues to the study of aging are individual, social, and institutional-based. The multidisciplinary course work follows these issues and provides proficiency in all aspects of working with, and administering to, an aging population.

This bachelor’s program is designed to prepare students for entry-level occupational positions in the growing field of aging as well as providing skills and knowledge necessary for graduate and professional school entrance.

All Applied Gerontology students will complete a 4-credit hour internship during their academic work. Students have the opportunity to work in area agencies on aging, private, state, and federal aging, care management organizations, advocacy organizations and non-profits serving older adults and their families.

The structure of the program centers on the traditional 8-semester format with additional options to incorporate approved transfer courses, and full and part-time options. Adult learners and change of career applicants are encouraged to apply and accommodated multiple online/hybrid class opportunities.

Assisted Living Administrations
Consultant/Advocate
Estate Preservation
Federal/State/Local Gov. Agencies
Geriatric Care Managers
Health Educators
Health Insurance Companies
Home Health Care Administration 
Hospice Facility Administration
Hotel Facilities Administration 
Long-term Care Administrator
Rehabilitation Facilities
Research settings
Residential Care Centers
Skilled Nursing Administration

Applied Gerontology (BS) Program Objectives:

• Graduates will demonstrate an appreciation of fundamental interdisciplinary evidence-based awareness of geriatric care. They will apply personal and social responsibility to ethical behavior in all settings dealing with the elderly and the aging process.
• Graduates will employ effective oral and written communication skills needed in a global information society.
• Graduates will evaluate, interpret, and analyze current issues in geriatric science/ administration. They will extrapolate theoretically effective answers to solve problems involving the elderly.
• Graduates will demonstrate the knowledge base skills needed to interpret analyze and evaluate the gerontology field and to prepare for further professional and graduate education. 

 

Admission to Farmingdale State College - State University of New York is based on the qualifications of the applicant without regard to age, sex, marital or military status, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, disability or sexual orientation.