The doctoral study of gerontology at the University of Massachusetts-Boston takes about four years to complete and consists of coursework in research methods, health changes, and social aspects of aging and economic issues facing the elderly. A major paper is submitted during the second year of the program, and following approval of the paper, the student selects a dissertation and begins research to defend the dissertation during the fourth and final year of Ph.D. studies. An internship gives students the opportunity to gain experience in policy research or analysis. The university's Gerontology Institute serves as a central location for students to conduct research and collaborate with older members of the community, who help to plan activities at the institute. About six to eight students are admitted to the program each year to study on a full-time basis; several part-time students are accepted as well. Applicants should submit undergraduate transcripts, three recommendation letters, standardized test scores and a personal statement.
University of Massachusetts-Boston
100 Morrissey Blvd.
Boston, MA 02125
617-287-5544
www.mccormack.umb.edu
Since its inception in 2001, the University of Maryland's Ph.D. program in gerontology has trained scholars to research the social, economic and psychological aspects of aging. Degree candidates can select from concentrations in social sciences, policy for the elderly or the epidemiology of aging, which looks at the health of elderly populations. The 61-credit program includes core courses in the biology and psychology of aging, studies in research methods and concentration coursework. Monthly seminar and forum attendance is required; students take a comprehensive evaluation at the end of the second year of study. The university's admission interviews selected applicants following review of transcripts, recommendations and a personal statement. Dual degree programs in applied sociology or epidemiology are also available.
University of Maryland
Gerontology Program
660 W. Redwood St., HH Suite 200
Baltimore, MD 21201
410-706-4926
www.gerontologyphd.umaryland.edu
The 60-credit Ph.D program in gerontology at the University of Southern California prepares graduates for careers in research. Students in the program complete scientific core courses, along with courses in statistics and research methods. Available concentrations include the biology and psychology of aging. The program is designed to be completed in four to five years; required courses should be taken during the first two years, with the remaining two to three years devoted to electives, passing qualifying exams, and writing and defending the dissertation. Applicants need an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.25 and a GPA of 3.5 for any graduate work completed before entering the program. In addition, prospective students must submit a resume, three reference letters and a writing sample along with a personal statement and standardized test scores.
University of Southern California
Davis School of Gerontology
3715 McClintock Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90089-0191
213-740-6060
usc.edu