Program Description
Gerontology is the study of the biological, psychological and social aspects of the aging process. The certificate programs as well as the degree program will prepare graduates to work in service delivery roles as well as in leadership roles in the gerontology field.  Superb career opportunities exist for individuals who desire to contribute to the wellbeing of older adults.

Employment Outlook
Opportunities in the gerontology field include employment in social service agencies, community agencies, government agencies and advocacy groups, recreation, administration and the Long Term Care/ Assisted Living Industry.  With the current job market driven by the rapidly growing aging population, the outlook is excellent for graduates. Today there are 35 million Americans over the age of 65, with an anticipated 75 million elderly citizens by the year 2020. 

Arizona is and will continue to be among the top ten states in terms of the number of residents age 60 and older. Presently our 60+ population is 875,000, or 17% of the population. By 2050, our aging population is anticipated to be just under 3 million, or 26% of the population. The National Bureau of Labor cites careers which involve care or support of the elderly among the fastest growing opportunities.

Cost 
Phoenix College tuition is $71 per credit hour for Maricopa county residents. The Gerontology Foundations certificate consists of 12 credits.  Program Development, Eldercare, Aging Services, and Generalist certificates require an additional 21 credits (33 credits total).  Students who wish to obtain an Associate in Applied Science degree in gerontology must also complete 28 credits of general education requirements (61 credits total).  

Program Schedule and Length
GRN 121 (Psychosocial Aspects of Aging) is offered fully online in Fall 2009 (9/13/2009-12/05/2009).

University Transfer
The Arizona Course Applicability System provides information on courses, course equivalencies, and program requirements at all public universities in Arizona. This website can provide you with information on how your specific coursework will transfer and apply toward a degree program.

Registration Process

Step 1:
If you have not previously taken a course at Phoenix College, complete the Student Information Form and submit it to the Admissions and Records Office.

Step 2:
If you do not have previous college experience, take the ASSET or COMPASS test to assess your English and reading skills. These tests can be taken at any Maricopa Community College testing center, including the Phoenix College Testing Center. All gerontology certificate and degree programs require that students demonstrate current assessment scores reflecting eligibility for CRE101 and ENG 101/107.

Step 3:
Make an appointement with Veronique Parker, Program Director, 602.285.7760 or Thelma Martinez, Advisor, 602.285.7868, prior to beginning a gerontology program.

Step 4:
Pay tuition and fees before the deadline to avoid being dropped. Financial aid is available for qualified students. Get an application packet from the Financial Aid Office or online. The approval process takes six to eight weeks, so apply early!