Mar 28, 2024  
Graduate Catalog | 2022-2023 
    
Graduate Catalog | 2022-2023 Previous Edition

Gerontology, Graduate Certificate


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The Graduate Certificate in Gerontology is designed to provide graduate education in Gerontology for those who already have a graduate degree in another field, those currently completing a graduate degree in another field, who are interested in working with older adults, and others seeking a credential to work in the aging field.  It requires completion of a foundational class, followed by one elective from each elective track.  A 150-hour practicum experience is also available for students who desire this opportunity, but does not count towards the 12 credit hours required to graduate with the certificate. 

Admission Requirements


In addition to the general requirements for admission to a certificate program, applicants must provide:

  • Official transcripts of all baccalaureate and graduate work attempted
  • Two letters of recommendation from persons familiar with the applicant’s professional and personal qualifications; these letters may be waived if the student is already enrolled in a master’s or doctoral program
  • An essay describing the applicant’s relevant experience and objectives in undertaking graduate study in Gerontology
  • A resume

Applications for admission to the Graduate Certificate in Gerontology program are considered as they are received, and admissions are ongoing. Students are admitted to the Graduate School in a special category for certificate students.

Early Entry Program

Exceptional undergraduate students at UNC Charlotte may apply for the Early Entry Program and begin work toward the graduate degree before completion of the baccalaureate degree.  See the Undergraduate Catalog for details and requirements.  Also see the Degree Requirements and Academic Policies  section of the Graduate Catalog for more information about Early Entry Programs.

Certificate Requirements


The Graduate Certificate Program requires completion of a minimum of 12 credit hours of graduate coursework related to aging and older adults.

Core Course (3 credit hours)


This course provides a foundational and interdisciplinary understanding of aging and older adults.

Elective Courses (9 credit hours)


Select one course from each of the following tracks*. 

Note:


* With approval of the Gerontology Graduate Program Director, topics courses may fulfill elective track courses depending upon their individual focus.  The Graduate Program Director will make this determination each semester.

Optional Course


The following optional course is available to all students in the Graduate Certificate in Gerontology program.  However, it does not count toward the 12 credit hours required for graduation.

Certificate Total = 12 Credit Hours


Transfer Credit


Credit hours taken at other institutions cannot transfer into the Graduate Certificate in Gerontology program.  Only UNC Charlotte credit hours may be used to transfer into the Graduate Certificate in Gerontology program.

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