Â鶹´«Ã½

The Gerontology Minor at the Â鶹´«Ã½ will examine the many dimensions of the aging process and help students understand the range of social, psychological, and physiological issues in aging-related care. Through hands-on learning, you'll collaborate across health disciplines, including Biology, Occupational Therapy, Public Health, Sociology, Psychology, and Social Work, participate in realistic simulations, and connect with community partners. This interdisciplinary minor complements almost any major, preparing you to meet the growing demand for professionals who can effectively support and improve the quality of life for older adults.

Study the processes associated with the variety of changes from middle age onward, transform your understanding of demographic shifts, and position yourself at the forefront of one of society's most pressing demographic challenges.

• Enhance almost any major with the skills to work with our aging populations
• Study in Maine — the state with the highest percentage of older residents
• Minimal additional coursework with maximum impact
• Prepare for a wide variety of careers in health care, research, and advocacy

Participate in classroom activities that reflect the growing challenges and study demographic shifts of aging in modern society in a way that best benefits your major. From virtual reality simulations to adaptive modifications in a simulated home environment, you’ll experience the aging process firsthand, giving you valuable insight to apply your classroom knowledge to the real world.

Depending on your major, there is a wide variety of required or optional internships available through our community partners in aging services.

Through courses taught by professors with vast experience in the field of aging, you’ll learn how to augment your major to better serve the senior community. Courses from your major may apply to the Gerontology Minor. 

Examples of Available Courses

• Fundamentals of Gerontology
• Health and Wellness in an Aging Society
• Nutrition Through the Life Cycle
• Social, Behavioral, and Environmental Factors in Public Health
• Psychology of Aging
• Medical Anthropology
• Social Welfare, Policy, and Advocacy

UNE’s hands-on Gerontology Minor will augment your existing major and prepare you for a fulfilling career improving the lives of older populations. From Nursing to Neuroscience and Social Work, you’ll prepare for a wide variety of careers in aging services. Graduate job-ready with the skills and connections needed for growing opportunities in health care and senior services.

Professional Opportunities Include