The graduate program in gerontology is the Master of Science in Gerontology. Also offered is the Certificate of Study in Gerontology and specialized course work leading to original licensure as a nursing home administrator in Minnesota. Minnesota State University, Mankato is a member of the Association for Gerontology in Higher Education.
In addition to the admission requirements of the College of Graduate Studies, admission to the graduate program in Gerontology requires a minimum of 16 credits of social and behavioral science at the undergraduate level, three letters of reference which assess the student's potential for graduate study and professional practice with older adults, and a personal statement which describes the applicant's previous training in gerontology, work and/or volunteer experience with older adults and reasons for pursuing a graduate degree in gerontology. A personal interview with the program director is desirable although not required.
One graduate assistantship in gerontology is normally available each year on a competitive basis. Other financial assistance may become available from time to time, e.g., research assistance or special project work. Contact the program director for current information.
Students pursing a Master's Degree in Gerontology are eligible for the [PDF] Rose M. Hull Scholarship (27 KiB). The purpose of this scholarship is to recognize and encourage distinguished study in the field of gerontology and to provide financial assistance to gerontology students preparing for a career in the service of older adults. Two scholarships for each academic year will be awarded in April for two undergraduate or graduate students who is presently working with elders OR who wish to take courses relating to gerontology at Minnesota State University, Mankato. Scholarship applicants must be planning to pursue a career relating to the care of elders.
(Thesis Plan - 30 credits)
(Alternate Plan Paper - 34 credits)
One-half of the total credits for the degree must be 600-level credits. A minimum of 24 credits of Gerontology is required under either plan. Within these 24 credits, a maximum of three credits of internship and four credits of thesis or two credits of alternate paper research may be included. The Gerontology MS Program has recently been reformed to allow students even greater flexibility in tailoring their program of study to meet their individual needs. Starting Spring Semester 2000, the course distribution will follow the guidelines outlined below. A minimum of one course** from each of the three core areas must be taken in addition to the requirements described below:
Descriptions of courses listed below are available on the Graduate Bulletins page.
**Any additional courses completed from the three core areas will be credited as Electives.
For schedules of courses, contact the registrar's office at Minnesota State University, Mankato 507-389-6266.
Additional credits needed to meet degree requirements and to meet the specific educational objectives of the student are to be chosen from the Gerontology list and/or from the offerings of other departments with emphasis on course work at the 600 level. For example, one might include course work in program planning, administration and evaluation and/or graduate-level course work which is required for nursing home administration licensure. Early consultation with the Gerontology Program Director is required to assure careful program planning and maximum utilization of program options.
