The gerontology minor provides a knowledge base in human aging to complement and support majors in fields where professional responsibilities may include working with or on behalf of older adults. This knowledge base is applicable across a wide range of occupations and professions, serves as preparation for graduate work in gerontology, and is directly relevant to personal living and aging.
Students minoring 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. One $1600 scholarship for the academic year will be awarded for one undergraduate or graduate student 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.
Scholarship will be available for the 2007-2008 school year.
Descriptions of courses listed below are available on the Undergraduate Bulletins page.
Requirements (Minimum of 18 credits for the Minor):
- All Gerontology minors must take GERO 200 Aging: Interdisciplinary Perspectives. This course also satisfies the "Human Diversity" General Education Requirement.
- Minors must also take 3 out of the following 4 core categories:
- SOC 404 – Sociology of Aging (3)
- PSYC 466 – Psychology of Aging (3)
- POL 464 – Aging: Policy Issues (3)
- HLTH 455 – Health and Aging (3) or BIOL 417 – Biology of Aging (3)
- Minors must also complete at least 6 credits of electives, to be chosen from among the list of aging-related, electives courses approved by the Gerontology Program. Contact the Program Office for a list of approved electives. A 3-credit aging-related internship which combines gerontology with the student's major is a possible elective choice, but no longer a requirement of the minor. This may be met by Gerontology 497 or, if approved in advance by the Gerontology Program director, an internship or practicum which is completed for the major.
Register for the Minor:
Students planning a gerontology minor are required to register their intent with the program director at the beginning of their program.
Other Opportunities for Undergraduates:
For program information contact:
Jim Tift, Director
Gerontology Program
215 S Morris Hall
Minnesota State University
Mankato, MN 56001
Phone: 507-389-5188
Email: james.tift@mnsu.edu
