Gerontology: Aging and Older Adulthood

As the American population grows older, there is an acute need for trained professionals who can work in numerous fields related to gerontology, elder care services and geriatric medicine. That’s where you come in if you choose this program as your major. WOU’s program is nationally recognized, and graduates often have jobs lined up before they even leave campus. If you enjoy working with and supporting older Americans, consider the field of gerontology.

I’m also a minor!

Choose from B.A.S. or B.S.

Four-year degree plan
Video
Related Majors

credits required for the Gerontology major

students enrolled in the Gerontology program

students per class on average in the Gerontology program

%

of master's degree can be completed as an undergrad at WOU

Sample four-year degree plan

Learning outcomes

  • Identify the needs of older adults and assess alternatives to address those needs
  • Explain the cognitive, physical, and social changes associated with older adulthood
  • Apply perspectives from two or more disciplines to understanding the needs of older adults

Career opportunities

  • Long-term care administrator
  • Life enrichment coordinator
  • Geriatric caseworker
  • Advocate for older adults
  • Senior social service provider

Gerontology minor

A minor in gerontology is a great complement to a major related to a health care field. “Gero” mixes well with biology, psychology, sociology or social science. Or pair it with Public Health major if you want to serve the elder population specifically.

credits required for the Gerontology minor

Faculty

MELISSA CANNON

Associate Professor, Gerontology: Aging and Older Adulthood
cannonm@wou.edu

ROB WINNINGHAM

Professor, Psychological Sciences Department
winninr@wou.edu

L.B. BOUCHARD

Tenure Track Assistant Professor , Gerontology: Aging and Older Adulthood
bouchardl@wou.edu

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QUESTIONS - Gerontology

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Contact Us

Phone: 503-838-8344

Email: gallaghm@wou.edu

Department website

Western Oregon University

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WESTERN OREGON UNIVERSITY
345 Monmouth Ave. N.
Monmouth OR 97361

503-838-8000 | 1-877-877-1593

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Western Oregon University’s Land Acknowledgement
Western Oregon University in Monmouth, OR is located within the traditional homelands of the Luckiamute Band of Kalapuya. Following the Willamette Valley Treaty of 1855 (Kalapuya etc. Treaty), Kalapuya people were forcibly removed to reservations in Western Oregon. Today, living descendants of these people are a part of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Community of Oregon and the Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians.

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