Gerontology
Master of Science
Meeting the needs of an aging population
The United States is experiencing a demographic shift. For the first time, older adults will outnumber children (U.S. Census Bureau). This change calls for leaders who can support and advocate for aging populations through programs and policies that enhance their quality of life. University of Idaho’s online Master of Science (M.S.) in Gerontology degree program positions you to influence health care delivery, social services and more while improving access to care for older adults.
Complete the degree in as little as one year. Explore the key benefits of earning your master’s in gerontology online with U of I:
- A first for Idaho: As the state’s first advanced degree in gerontology, this program equips you to address Idaho’s rapidly growing aging population, projected to increase by 33% from 2012 to 2030 (Idaho Commission on Aging, Annual Report).
- Flexible, online format: Balance your education and career in a fully online program ideal for working professionals with full-time jobs in areas like nursing, social work, therapy and health care administration.
- Hands-on experience: Complete a capstone project, such as a local internship or research project through the Idaho Office of Underserved and Rural Medical Research.
- Impactful curriculum: Prepare for roles in health care, research, community advocacy and public policy with coursework aligned with the Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education’s competency categories.
Overview
Why gerontology? Elevate your career while making a difference
Degree fit
University of Idaho’s online gerontology degree program is a good fit if you:
- Are passionate about improving the quality of life for aging populations.
- Aspire to lead programs or services for older adults in health care or community settings.
- Value the flexibility of an online master’s program that fits your busy schedule.
- Seek to influence health care, policy or social services for future generations.
Curriculum and courses
The online M.S. in gerontology is a 30-credit program that covers critical topics in gerontology and allows you to tailor your education to your interests through electives like:
- Community Engagement and Leisure Arts in Aging
- Pharmacological Management for Older Adults
- Program Development and Evaluation for Aging
- Rural Health and Aging
- The Business of Geriatric Care Management
The online gerontology degree takes one year to complete as a full-time student, but you have the flexibility to study part-time and begin the program in any term. You’ll take all courses online and end the program with a capstone project to apply your learning in a real-world setting.
Career outcomes
Current job openings
8,463 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and starting salaries
- Home Health Aides
$34,510 - Nursing Assistants
$37,386 - Psychiatric Technicians
$37,907 - Medical Scientists
$62,313 - Physical Therapist Aides
$30,227
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Job data is collected from national, state and private sources, and is for illustrative purposes. For more information, visit Lightcast's data sources page.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.
For information on FAFSA deadlines, financial aid types and eligibility requirements, visit the University of Idaho Financial Aid Office website.
Plan ahead—estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.
Graduate funding opportunities
Unsure how to find financial aid resources or external scholarships for medical programs? We’re here to help — read about how to pay for health care programs.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Find ways to get involved through the School of Medical Health Professions:
- Idaho Office of Underserved and Rural Medical Research: Conduct impactful research with faculty focused on increasing care in rural and underserved areas.
- North Idaho Area Health Education Center (AHEC): Connect your education with opportunities to serve regional health needs.
- Project ECHO Idaho: Participate in virtual training to increase your knowledge as a health care professional.
As part of your capstone project, you can complete a gerontology internship in your community that aligns with your professional goals.
Application information
U of I gives preference for admission to the M.S. in gerontology program to students with educational backgrounds in health, medicine and other related fields. Applicants must also meet the following admission requirements:
- Education level: Bachelor's degree
- Undergraduate GPA: 3.0 (applicants with a lower GPA may be considered under specific circumstances)
- GRE: No
- TOEFL/IELTS (for international applicants): 79/6.5
- Number of references: Three
Get started — explore the application process to earn your master’s in gerontology online.
Visit Graduate admissions to learn more and start your application.