Gerontologist, Gerontology Schools, Training, Education, Jobs, and Careers

What is Gerontologist?
If you want to become a gerontologist, you will be studying the changes that go on with people as they age. Many changes occur with people as they grow older including intellectual, emotional, physical, and spiritual changes.

Some people may only experience small changes while with others the aging process will be quite dramatic. The science of gerontology studies the reasons why these changes may occur while trying to find ways to improve all aspects of the well-being.

How to Become Gerontologist:
Students who feel they want to study gerontology after they graduate from high school should take the following courses during high school:

1. Biology
2. Geometry
3. English
4. Sociology
5. Psychology
6. Social Studies
7. Chemistry
8. Algebra
9. Literature
10. Computer Skills

Due to the multidisciplinary focus of gerontology, you will find that professionals from various fields carry the name of "gerontologist". Although there are no certification or state board examinations, most people have a PhD. or at least a Master's degree in gerontology or a closely related field.

While in college, you will take some of the following courses during your program of study:

a. Psychology of Aging
b. Gerontology Management
c. Counseling
d. Physical Therapy
e. Nursing

Degrees in gerontology can be acquired at every educational level, all the way from undergraduate certificates to the more advanced PhD programs. You can also find online nonclinical programs if you would like to go into a field such as long-term administration.

If a student decides to get a certificate, they are perfect candidates for getting entry-level positions to work in nursing homes, homes of private clients and senior daycare centers. You must have a high school diploma or a GED to pursue the certificate program. You will usually be taking four to ten short courses like Psychological Aspects of Aging, Introduction to Gerontology and Communication and Aging.

If you decide to go a step further, then you may be interested in pursuing an associate's degree. This program lasts for two years and includes not only general education courses but also courses that are specific to gerontology. This degree prepares you to work with the senior citizens at an entry level. You are usually required to complete an internship if you have an associate's degree.

Students who decide to earn a bachelor's degree in gerontology will be able to work with older adults in a number of settings. It will take you four years to complete your degree and you will have to have an internship. You will take such general education courses such as sociology, biology and algebra. You will also have to take more advanced courses dealing with gerontology.

Those pursuing an online bachelor's degree in this field usually focus on nonclinical aspects of gerontology such as policy, social services, communication and advocacy. The online student's school may often arrange with a local facility for her to get her internship requirement complete.

You will find gerontologists working in various work settings such as nursing homes, hospitals, senior citizen offices and public health offices. They may choose to teach in schools and colleges, or they may work alongside other professionals such as occupational and physical therapists and dieticians.

Gerontologist Salary:
You’ll make excellent income as a gerontologist. The national average pay is $89,000 per year. We’ve have seen ones that make six figure income. Your salary will continue to increase as you gain more experience and years of service.

Gerontology School:
The list of schools offering gerontology degree programs can be small. The best way to find one is to visit the Embanet website. There, you find schools in your area or online. You need to click this link to get started. You need to start by requesting their free and no obligation information.

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