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Gerontology, Master's

See Program Details, Dates & Deadlines

Lead in Aging: Gain Knowledge and Skills to Improve Lives.

The online Master of Science in Gerontology empowers students with a strong foundation in the interdisciplinary field of aging. Through this program, students gain essential knowledge in research methods and explore critical issues that impact older adults and society. Designed to build both expertise and real-world skills, the curriculum equips students to effectively shape policies and programs that provide care, support, and services to older adults and their families. The program requires 36 to 42 graduate credits and offers options to specialize in a generalist track or focus on one of three areas: Aging and Applied Thanatology, Principles in the Management of Aging Services, or Social Entrepreneurship. Students benefit from courses shared with the prestigious joint doctoral program in Gerontology and the Erickson School for Aging Studies at the University of Maryland Baltimore County. Please note, this program is not eligible for F-1 or J-1 visa sponsorship.

Details, Dates & Deadlines

Program Details

Class Format

Online, Full Time, Part Time, Asynchronous

Asynchronous learning means that learning takes place at all different times for students enrolled in a course.

Program Location

Online

Program Length

24 months

Credits to Complete

36-42

Cost/Credit Hour

In State: $783
Out of State: $997

  • Online application
  • $75 application fee
  • Official transcripts
  • 300–500 word essay
  • Proof of English language proficiency
  • CV or resume
  • 1 letter or recommendation

Dates & Deadlines

Spring Deadline: December 1
Fall Deadline: July 1 

Program Overview

What is Gerontology?

Gerontology is the scientific study of aging processes and topics related to an aging society. It is both an applied and basic science that examines the physical, mental, social, emotional, vocational, and spiritual factors influencing aging. Although gerontology focuses on adults age 65 and older, the discipline recognizes that aging is best understood through a life course lens. Who we become in later life is shaped by the life we have lived, including social, economic, and environmental conditions that influence health and well-being. Unlike geriatrics, which concentrates on medical care, gerontology takes a broad, interdisciplinary approach, drawing on fields such as biology, psychology, sociology, public health, and social work to understand the aging process and the process of aging.

Why Study Gerontology?

Gerontology explores how biological, social, and cultural factors shape the aging experience. It equips students with the knowledge and skills to lead in healthcare, policy, research, and community programs. By understanding the life lived and social determinants, professionals can reduce ageism, improve quality of life, support independence, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of older adults, their families, and communities.

2 years

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Complete in as little as two years, from anywhere.

3 concentrations

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Design your own graduate pathway with specialized elective courses.

100% online

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Flexible learning, built to fit your life. 

By 2030, older adults will represent more than 20% of the American population and by 2034 there will be more people age 65 and older than under the age of 18 (U.S. Census Bureau, 2019).

The online MS in Gerontology provides students with a core of knowledge in fundamental issues in the interdisciplinary field of gerontology, a foundation in research methods, and familiarity with questions of central concern in an aging society. Students must complete a curriculum consisting of 36-42* graduate credits and select either a generalist area of study or one of these areas of concentrations:

  • Aging & Applied Thanatology
  • Social Entrepreneurship
  • Principles in the Management of Aging Services

The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics reports that employment opportunities that intersect with aging and older adulthood will be among the highest occupational growth areas for the next several decades. While the demand will remain high in the healthcare industry, it is expanding to include positions related to prevention of age-related diseases; promotion of healthy habits; and self-management of chronic conditions.

Careers working with and on behalf of older adults are not limited to just the healthcare industry. Today, the workplaces for people knowledgeable in gerontology include:

  • Academia & Research
  • Adult Day Care
  • Advocacy Groups
  • Assisted Living Communities
  • Business, Management & Marketing
  • Case Management
  • Community Organizations
  • Consumer Product Development (esp. digital & electronic)
  • Counseling
  • Elder Law
  • Financial Services
  • Fitness & Wellness
  • Hospitals
  • Government Agencies
  • Long Term Insurance Companies
  • Mental Health News/Magazine Outlets
  • Nursing Homes
  • Pharmaceutical Companies 
  • Religious Organizations
  • Professional Volunteer Recruitment
  • Skilled Nursing Facilities
  • Transportation & Travel (inc. hospitality and leisure)

Required Courses

  • THAN 609: Perspectives in Aging (3 credits) OR AGNG 600: Social & Economic Context of Aging (3 credits) 
  • GERO 700: Sociocultural Gerontology (3 Credits) 
  • GERO 711: Biology of Aging (3 Credits) 
  • GERO 786: Psychological Aspects of Aging (3 Credits) 
  • GERO 750: Theory and Methods I (3 Credits) 
  • GERO 620: Health Communication and Aging (2 Credits) 
  • GERO 650: Internship in Gerontology I* (0-6 Credits) 
  • CIPP 907: Research Ethics (1 credit) 
  • GERO 672: Issues in Aging Policy (3 credits) 
  • GERO 797: Capstone in Gerontology (3 Credits) Or GERO 799: Master’s Thesis Research 
  • Master’s Thesis Research (6 credits) 

See Course Descriptions

  • International Opportunities

    The University of Maryland, Baltimore offers unique global aging programs that provide interdisciplinary, cross-cultural learning opportunities. The Aging in Japan course immerses students in Japan’s policy, cultural, social, and technological approaches to aging through preparatory coursework and a two-week faculty-led experience. The COIL-designed Aging in Place course brings together students from UMB and University of Helsinki (Finland) for comparative analysis of ageism, social determinants of health, health literacy, and caregiving. The Costa Rica Aging Fellowship promotes collaborative research, teaching, and service with the University of Costa Rica, enhancing understanding of aging issues in diverse global contexts.

    Learn More

  • Meet Your Faculty

    Our distinguished faculty, composed of accomplished scholars and experienced health care professionals, will guide your educational journey. Drawing from their expertise, they'll steer you through our comprehensive programs, preparing you for success in educational research and leadership roles in health care and medical organizations.

    View Faculty Bios

Next Steps

Learn more about the Gerontology master's program or start your application today.

620 W. Lexington St.
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 706-3100

University of Maryland School of Graduate Studies. All Rights Reserved.