What Can I Do With A Degree In Gerontology?



In conjunction with Laurentian University, Huntington University offers three- and four-year Bachelor of Arts programs in Gerontology, as well as a three-year B.A. degree through distance education.  Also available is a Certificate program in Gerontology and, in cooperation with four community colleges across Ontario, a Diploma in Clinical Gerontology. Both the B.A. and Certificate programs may be combined with another discipline.  Please see the department link below for further information on programs and course descriptions. 

Link to the department of Gerontology web site

Skills developed:

  • Specialized ability to access and care for the elderly
  • Holistic and compassionate understanding/approach to the aging process
  • Strong research and report writing skills
  • Strong analytical and problem solving abilities
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Exceptional observational skills
  • Ability to council

Areas of employment

Gerontology graduates can anticipate careers in the health care field, in social services, retirement centers, mental health care facilities, government agencies, and more.  Canada’s aging population is contributing to a growing demand for health care professionals.  Those with specialized training in aging have a competitive advantage in the work force because they are becoming relatively scarce.

Sample Careers:

Allied Health Professional Occupational Therapist Care Services Manager
Personal Support Worker (PSW) Caregiver Personal Trainer
Clinical Research Assistant Public Policy Advocate Consultant
Recreational / Exercise Therapist Geriatric Clinical Specialist Resident Care Aide
Health and Safety Specialist Social Worker Instructor/Teacher
Urban Planer (Senior Specialist) Nurse Wellness Caseworker

*Some careers will require a Masters, PhD or further education

http://content.monstertrak.monster.com/tools/careerconverter/ (Geology)

Who’s hired Laurentian Grads (sample)

Algoma District School Board National Defense and the Canadian Forces Cambrian College
Northdale Manor Chid and Family Service Advocacy Porcupine Health Unit
City of Greater Sudbury Providence Continuing Care Centre Englewood Care Centre
Semple Gooder Northern Limited Huronia Regional Center St Joseph Villa
Hydro One Networks Incorporated St. Andrew's United Church Laurentian University
Sudbury Catholic District School Board Legal Aid Ontario Sunnybrooke Medical Science Centre
National Capital Commission de la Capitale Nationale Vale Inco Limited  

Gerontology undergraduates qualify for employment in entry level health related positions in business, government, and the non profit sector. 

Graduate studies are generally necessary for careers in counseling, medicine and related areas.

A Masters or Ph.D. is required for teaching at the university or college level.

Students should consider combining their Gerontology degree with other disciplines like Psychology, Sociology, or Social Work to increase their marketability following graduation.  Skills in computers, statistics, and management are especially valuable contributions to this degree.

For more information, contact: the Career and Employment Centre by telephone 673-6598 or by email CareerEmploymentCentre@laurentian.ca

 


Webmaster
updated:  June 2010

 
 
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