Student Learning Outcomes

Aging is natural. Faculty in the gerontology program at Missouri State deliver a comprehensive and applied program focusing on the study of aging and age-related issues.

This interdisciplinary program prepares students for work in diverse areas, including education, social services and business, and for further graduate studies.

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of the gerontology degree, students will demonstrate:

An understanding of human aging as a combination of psychological, social, and biological processes.
Sufficient familiarity with the methods of gerontological research, the ability to apply research methods in a concrete setting, and the knowledge to evaluate their use by others in the field of gerontology.
Knowledge of the different theories and principles within gerontology as an interdisciplinary science and the ability to apply this knowledge in a setting working with older adults.
An awareness of the historical record of gerontology's development as an interdisciplinary science devoted to an understanding of the issues affecting the aging process.
A recognition of the practical and ethical issues involved in studying gerontological phenomena and working with older adults.
An ability to express and communicate gerontological knowledge to others in both written and oral form.
A recognition of how gerontology can inform analysis of social policy and is applied in the public and private sectors.
The academic background necessary to practice in the field of aging or to pursue graduate work in gerontology.
Ability to communicate effectively with older adults and professionals in the field of aging.