Gerontology is the study of the aging process across the life course. It is a multi-disciplinary field that includes the biological, social, family, and psychological aspects of the aging process including the provision of services for seniors.
With the rise in the aging population, the field of gerontology is continuing to grow to meet the needs of this expanding population.
BYU offers an undergraduate minor within the field of Gerontology. This supplements the students’ training in their major field of study, which enhances their career opportunities. Students from all majors may complete a Gerontology Minor.
Potential Careers in the field of Gerontology:
- Public Health Advocate
- Geriatrician
- Podiatrist/Dentist/Pharmacist
- Occupational or Physical Therapist
- Medicare Counselor
- Administrator for Senior Living Centers
- Marketing Director of a Care Facility
- Adult Day Care Center Activities Director
- Healthy Aging/Finance Educator
- Agency-Family Liaison
- Estate Planner & Advisor
- Nurse or Respite Caregiver
- Podiatrist/Dentist/Pharmacist
- Adult Protective Services Worker
Students may use several public health courses to fulfill requirements for the gerontology minor, including;
HLTH 466: Health and the Aging Process
HLTH 314: Health, Disease, and Their Determinants
HLTH 450: Women’s Health Issues
HLTH 320: Advanced First Aid and Safety
HLTH 345: Principles of Epidemiology
HLTH 425: Vulnerable and Diverse Populations
Students may also use HLTH 491R: Mentored Research and HLTH 496R: Academic Internship for the gerontology minor, provided that the research or internship work relates to older adults.
Visit the Gerontology website for more information: