The Multidisciplinary Minor in Gerontology

One of the most significant demographic changes in America today is the aging of its population. Expanding opportunities exist among individuals who provide direct services to older adults. The Gerontology Minor complements a variety of existing degree programs by adding specific knowledge and skills in working with and relating to the older population.

Students completing a minor in Gerontology are required to take a total of 21 credit hours. Four core courses are required:

* PSY 420 Psychology of Aging (3)
* SOC 644 Sociology of Aging (3)
* BIOL 335 Physiology of Aging (3)
* NURS 493 Seminar in Gerontology (2)

Elective Courses
The final 10 hours of the 21 required for the minor are selected from courses which deal with the following areas. Students must select five courses from at least four of the five departments listed.

Communication Disorders
* SLP 665 Communication and Aging (2)
* SLP 664 Communication and Hearing Loss in Older Adults (2)

Nursing
* NURS 491 Health Care System and Policy (2)
* NURS 211 Learning in Older Adulthood (2)

Health and Human Performance
* HHP 619 Exercise Testing and Prescription for the Elderly (2) (Summer)
* HHP 617 Nutrition and Aging (2)
* HHP 480 Leisure Programming for the Elderly (2)
* Thinking of making HHP 619 & HHP 617 into 3 credit hour courses due to increase in content*

Sociology and Social Work
* SOC 620 Spirituality in the Aging: The Empowering Relationship (3) (Fall/Spring)

Technology Studies
* TECS 450 Recreational Activities in Older Adulthood (2)
* TECS 455 Adaptive Home Maintenance for Older Adults (2)
* Will continue to be involved as long as there are the numbers to have the classes, does not want the classes even listed unless there are enough people who are interested in taking the classes or if the classes are going to be promoted*

Courses are sequenced so students can easily complete the minor in two years while completing their chosen major.

Much of the coursework can be completed through distance education.

To accommodate the working professional, most classes are offered throughout the fall, spring and summer.

Bachelor of General Studies and Master of Liberal Studies degrees with Gerontology emphasis are also available.

For more information, contact:

Liane Connelly, PhD, RN, CNAA, BC
127 Stroup Hall
600 Park Street
Fort Hays State University
Hays, Kansas 67601
(785) 628-4511 (phone)
lconnell@fhsu.edu
Fax:785.628.4080