Certificate in Sociology of Medicine and Aging

Certificate

Hours: 12 Online

About

The Certificate in Sociology of Medicine and Aging at Fort Hays State University is designed for individuals pursuing a career focused on health and aging. This certificate provides concentrated training to develop the knowledge and expertise necessary to work effectively in this critical field.

As the aging population increasingly drives growth in the medical and public health sectors, this 9-credit-hour certificate offers a strong foundation in medical sociology. It explores the behavioral dimensions of health and well-being among older adults, preparing students to address the unique challenges and needs of an aging society.

Why pursue a Certificate in Sociology of Medicine and Aging at Fort Hays State University?

FHSU offers exceptional flexibility by allowing students to complete the certificate entirely online. This format is ideal for working professionals, caregivers of older adults, or anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of aging, health, and well-being—without disrupting their existing responsibilities. The online delivery makes it possible to balance academic goals with personal and professional commitments, making the certificate accessible to learners across diverse circumstances.

Who is this program for?

This certificate is designed for individuals seeking to expand their knowledge and skills in the areas of aging and healthcare. Whether a current social worker or healthcare professional, a recent graduate, or someone considering a career change, the certificate provides valuable insights that are applicable across a wide range of professional settings.

Social workers and healthcare professionals
Students and recent graduates
Individuals considering a career change

Learning Outcomes

The Certificate in Sociology of Medicine and Aging provides a comprehensive understanding of death and dying across different societies. Through this certificate, students develop the following skills:

Explore Historical and Global Perspectives on Death

Students will examine the historical evolution of death practices in the United States and compare them with those in other parts of the world. This comparative approach offers a deeper understanding of how different societies perceive and respond to death and dying.

Analyze the Impact of Death Practices on Mortality

The certificate examines how evolving death management practices have influenced mortality patterns across the globe. Understanding these shifts can help inform public health strategies and shape effective social policies.

Identify Social Institutions and Death

This certificate provides insight into how social institutions—such as healthcare systems, religious organizations, and legal frameworks—influence societal attitudes, practices, and behaviors related to death and dying.

Understand Responses to Terminal Illness

The certificate explores how individuals and families respond to terminal diagnoses. This understanding is essential for professionals who provide care, support, and guidance to those facing end-of-life experiences.

Real-World Applications

While the Certificate in Sociology of Medicine and Aging does not lead to licensure as an addictions counselor, it provides students with valuable skills that are applicable across a variety of real-world settings.

The certificate focuses on the intersection of population health, the aging process, and the healthcare system. Through coursework in aging and related topics, students develop a comprehensive understanding of the social factors that influence health across the lifespan. The curriculum addresses key areas such as the social determinants of health, healthcare access for older adults, and the role of gerontology in shaping social services and public policy.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The field of medical sociology and aging is continually evolving, with new research, emerging trends, and evolving best practices. The Certificate in Sociology of Medicine and Aging is designed to equip students with current, evidence-based knowledge relevant to this dynamic field. It prepares individuals for careers that address the complex challenges and opportunities presented by an aging population.

A key strength of the certificate is the faculty’s active engagement with the field. In addition to teaching, faculty members conduct ongoing research, participate in academic conferences, and incorporate the latest developments in population health, aging, and gerontology directly into their coursework. This ensures that students receive a well-rounded, up-to-date education grounded in the real-world application of medical sociology.

Hands-on Activities

This certificate provides a comprehensive foundation in the social factors that influence health and aging. Designed with flexibility in mind, it allows students and professionals to pursue their academic goals while balancing work and personal responsibilities.

What You’ll Learn:

Behavioral health aspects in older adults
Social determinants of health impacts
Healthcare system navigation for aging populations
Global perspectives on death and aging
Analyzing death practices on mortality

How You’ll Learn:

Online coursework for flexible learning
Comparative analysis of global death practices
Exploration of societal roles in health
Studies on medical practices' social factors
Insights into healthcare policy for aging

Courses

The Certificate in Sociology of Medicine and Aging examines society’s complex relationship with death and dying through coursework focused on end-of-life care, cultural rituals, and the personal and familial impact of loss.

A course in Medicine and Society explores the social factors that shape healthcare systems, medical practices, and patient experiences, providing students with a broader understanding of how medicine operates within a societal context.

In addition, the certificate addresses the social, cultural, and economic realities faced by aging populations. This includes topics such as retirement, elder care, and the influence of social structures on the aging experience.

SOC 375: Medical Sociology

This course is an overview of sociological topics affecting public health, including demographic and social factors, epidemiology, the meaning and experience of illness, health care systems and providers in the US and abroad, and an introduction to bioethics.

SOC 644: Sociology of Aging

This course is an examination of the status of older adults in contemporary American society, focusing on the social aspects of aging and integrating theory and research from various disciplines, with an emphasis on optimal and successful aging.

SOCW 620: Spirituality and Aging: The Empowering Relationship

In this course, students will explore a multicultural approach to spirituality, aging, and empowerment in American society, while also examining the role of social workers and gerontology professionals in addressing the impact of chronic illness on the psychosocial, economic, and spiritual aspects of aging adults.

Discover the full Certificate in Sociology of Medicine and Aging course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

The Certificate in Sociology of Medicine and Aging provides students with specialized knowledge and skills that extend beyond those typically offered in a traditional sociology degree. It is well-suited for individuals seeking to enhance their qualifications for careers in aging services, public health, healthcare administration, and related fields.

Social and Community Service Workers

This certificate equips individuals with the knowledge to better understand the social and healthcare needs of older adults. It prepares students to design and implement effective programs that address key issues such as senior isolation, social support networks, and navigating community resources.

Geriatric Care Managers

The certificate provides a strong foundation for professionals working with older adults and their families. It offers valuable insights into healthcare access, long-term care options, and the social determinants of health that shape the experiences of aging populations.

Health Educators

This certificate prepares individuals to educate older adults on health promotion, disease prevention, and healthy aging practices. It also helps develop communication skills essential for engaging diverse populations and addressing their unique health needs effectively.

Case Managers

The certificate enhances the ability to assess the needs of older adults and connect them with appropriate healthcare and social services. It provides valuable knowledge for navigating complex healthcare systems and advocating effectively on behalf of aging individuals.

Policy Analysts

This certificate serves as a valuable stepping stone for those interested in healthcare policy and its impact on aging populations. It helps develop essential research skills for analyzing data and contributing to policy development that supports healthy aging, creating new opportunities for professional advancement.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,180.60* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 12 credit hours at the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate ($265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

Apply

Related Programs

The Certificate in Sociology of Medicine and Aging offers an excellent starting point for those seeking to deepen their understanding of aging and healthcare systems. For students interested in further study, Fort Hays State University offers a range of academic programs that complement and build upon the social dimensions of medicine and aging.

- Certificate in Life Stages and Transitions
- B.A./B.S. in Sociology

FAQ

What distinguishes the Certificate in Sociology of Medicine and Aging?

This certificate offers a focused study of the behavioral aspects of health and well-being in older adults, grounded in medical sociology. It's a fully online format that provides flexibility, making it ideal for working professionals, caregivers, or anyone looking to expand their knowledge of aging and healthcare.

How does the certificate cover various aspects of medical sociology and aging studies?

The Certificate in Sociology of Medicine and Aging provides a comprehensive curriculum covering social determinants of health, healthcare access for older adults, and the role of gerontology in social services. It also examines the intersection of population health, aging, and healthcare systems to keep students informed of current knowledge and trends.

Are there specific courses or practical experiences focused on in the Certificate in Sociology of Medicine and Aging?

The certificate focuses on building knowledge through coursework rather than required internships. Key courses cover end-of-life care, cultural rituals, the impact of death, medicine and society, and the social and economic realities of aging populations.

What career opportunities does completing the Certificate in Sociology of Medicine and Aging offer?

The certificate prepares individuals for careers in aging services, public health, and healthcare administration. Potential roles include social and community service worker, geriatric care manager, health educator, case manager, and policy analyst.

Information about the School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology

FHSU’s School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology brings together a diverse range of programs dedicated to preparing students for impactful careers in law enforcement, leadership, and social sciences. Our integrated approach allows students to develop critical skills across these disciplines, fostering an environment where future leaders and professionals are equipped to address complex societal challenges. The Criminal Justice programs offer flexible online and on-campus options, focusing on law enforcement, corrections, and legal systems with a strong emphasis on leadership and integrity. The Leadership programs develop essential organizational skills through interactive coursework and internships, supported by the Leadership Studies Association and VALUE program. Sociology programs delve into social life, behavior, and community issues, emphasizing research and critical thinking. Together, these programs foster cross-disciplinary learning, empowering students to lead and innovate within their communities and beyond.

Together, these programs create a robust educational experience that encourages cross-disciplinary learning and collaboration. Students are empowered to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to their communities and the broader society. Whether you are passionate about justice, leadership, or sociology, FHSU’s School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology provides the knowledge and skills necessary to make a lasting impact.

Student Organizations

Additional Information

Criminal Justice Centers

National De-escalation Training Center:

Fort Hays State University’s Criminal Justice Program and University Police joined the National De-escalation Training Center (NDTC) in August 2020 as Region 2 Central Region Training Center. As a regional center, FHSU facilitates the only Level 3 de-escalation training available in the United States.

Level 1 training includes traditional techniques of procedural justice.
Level 2 provides basic crisis intervention.
Level 3 augments traditional de-escalation and crisis intervention with rapid personality identification.

The NDTC De-escalation: Principles & Practice course is evidence-based and has increased officer confidence in utilizing de-escalation skills in working with the public.

FHSU facilitates NDTC’s three training modalities, including an 8-hour online training, two-day face-to-face training, and a 40-hour train-the-trainer program. Due to FHSU’s $2.75 million federal grant funding, the face-to-face trainings can be provided at no cost to agencies. Scholarships may be available for agencies to train officers in the online course.

NDTC training is approved by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community-Oriented Policing Services (COPS) and certified by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST).

Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence:

The Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence is a regional hub of collaborative research and service, housed in the Criminal Justice Programs at Fort Hays State University. The Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence aims to reduce the constraints facing survivors, to promote the freedom of economic independence, and to empower survivors to seize opportunity freely. The center commits to providing sustainable support and improvement to help survivors break the cycle of violence and transform themselves from victims/survivors to social entrepreneurs. The Center facilitates cross-disciplinary research focusing on the causes and control of gender-based violence in rural areas. It leads and facilitates collaborative networks for researchers to apply evidence-based approaches and to investigate best practices addressing gender-based violence in rural communities. The Center establishes and develops academic-community collaborations through service-learning, research, assessment, and educational opportunities and policy recommendations that enhance the well-being of rural communities.

VALUE Program:

The Voss Advanced Leadership Undergraduate Experience (VALUE) is designed to develop the most promising undergraduates into powerful agents of change. This year-long program offers curricular and co-curricular experiences with three tracks: corporate leadership, civic/non-profit leadership, and scholarship/leadership research.

CNN Heroes Advisory Board:

The Sociology Programs emphasize real-world impact through training in projects designed to help those in need. A notable project involves collaboration with CNN Heroes, individuals recognized for their exceptional work in nonprofit organizations. The CNN Heroes Advisory Board, composed of these national heroes, provides insights and advice to students based on their successful experiences in the nonprofit sector.

Sociology of Medicine and Aging

Certificate

Online

Request Information

Are you a current student at FHSU?*

First name*

Last name*

Email*

Phone number*

I would like more information about