The University of Wisconsin, LaCrosse offers two gerontology certificate programs, as well as workshops and continuing-education courses. The 60-hour certificate program takes one year to complete for most students. Topics covered include the fundamentals and background of gerontology, and the social, psychological and physiological aspects of aging, as well as drugs and medical issues as they pertain to the elderly. The 120-hour Advanced Gerontology Certificate Program last two years. After successfully completing the 60-hour program, students can continue in specialized areas of gerontology, such as dementia issues, legacy building, lifestyle and fitness. Non-degree-seeking students can attend workshops for continuing-education credit.
The University of Northern Colorado offers a master's degree in gerontology. Students study the changing needs of aging persons and methods to manage those needs and maintain a healthy quality of life. The curriculum includes coursework in health, family and social relationships. Racial and ethnic diversity is also covered, along with relevant public policy issues and practical information on how to locate and access gerontological services.
The graduate school of Virginia Tech offers a gerontology graduate certificate. The program was one of the first to earn a "Program of Merit" distinction by the Association for Gerontology in Higher Education. In addition to studying current theories and research about biological and social aspects of aging, students in Virginia Tech's gerontology program study aging from the perspectives of disciplines such as social work, nursing, nutrition, adult education and public policy. This 15-credit certificate program includes coursework and field experience coordinated by the student and his adviser to prepare him for the work he is seeking following graduation.
The University of Southern California has the Davis School of Gerontology. Courses in gerontology are available to undergraduate students, who can major or minor in the field. The master's of science in gerontology is a 44-credit program that includes extensive practical experience. The school also offers an online 28-credit master's of arts in gerontology. Students who have not been admitted to the graduate school programs are eligible to take up to 12 credits worth of online gerontology courses prior to their official enrollment.