Gerontology courses will be at the foundation of any master's degree program in gerontology. These classes take a broad view of the aging process, bringing together multiple disciplines to explore how aging affects individuals and society. Other gerontology courses may explore issues such as nutrition, economics and public policy, estate planning and aging in the family. Coursework may also cover counseling for the elderly.
The biology of aging is also important to the study of gerontology. As such, coursework typically includes life and physical sciences such as biology, chemistry and nutrition. Students can use their understanding of these sciences to learn more about how aging affects the body, as well as the mind and spirit, and how all of those influences affect the role of the individual within society.
Psychology plays a big role in the study of gerontology. Aging affects not only how individuals see themselves but also how they see the world -- and how the world sees them. Coursework may include mental health assessment of older adults, group and family counseling, aging and mental disorders, and case management, among others. Psychological theory is also interconnected with other topics in gerontological study, such as sociological influences and economic influences of aging.
A degree in gerontology can lead to careers in public policy and advocacy work. Coursework in a master's program in gerontology will touch on economics and policy issues and how they influence aging and are affected by aging populations. Some courses may include economics of aging, ethical and legal issues in aging, social policy and planning for gerontologists, health-care operations, and more. Courses can focus on the macro level, such as governmental policies that affect the nation or particular states, or the micro level, such as how those policies affect communities.