Gerontology

Overview

OverviewAdmission RequirementsProgram CurriculumInformation SessionsCareer OpportunitiesOur StudentsIn the NewsPracticum Opportunities

Overview
Looking for a meaningful career? Do you care about older adults in your life and community? If so, then you want to be part of the dynamic and growing field of gerontology.?Langara offers?two programs in this field.
DIPLOMA IN GERONTOLOGY (62 CREDITS)
In the two-year Diploma in Gerontology program, students develop advanced skills and knowledge for positions related to program development, administration, and management. Graduates are prepared to provide innovative services to older adults that prevent social isolation, promote mental, physical, and emotional health, and support older adults to age in place while staying active in their communities.
SOCIAL SERVICE WORKER (GERONTOLOGY) CERTIFICATE (31 CREDITS)
In the one-year gerontology specialization program, students develop practical skills and knowledge to meet the needs of the rapidly growing population of older adults. Students in the certificate program take the first two terms of the Diploma in Gerontology program and exit with the recognized credential of Social Service Worker. Graduates are prepared to work with a population of older persons from diverse backgrounds.
HANDS-ON TRAINING
Students in both programs take part in practica that provide opportunities to apply theories learned in class while gaining direct experience working with older adults in a field placement setting. Certificate students complete over 200 practicum hours; diploma students complete a total of over 300.
Both programs provide?recognized?credentials?for individuals seeking a new career, or further training for their current positions in?the community-based?seniors? service or healthcare sector.?In these interdisciplinary programs, students gain?an understanding?of aging processes?and social policy issues affecting older persons and their families using a?strengths-based and?social justice approach.
Combining theory with practice, students gain specialized knowledge and skills to work with individuals, families, and communities to promote health and resilience throughout the aging process. This program prepares graduates for employment in the field of gerontology within a wide range of service settings such as: health and wellness, education, recreation, community support, advocacy, residential, and palliative care. The gerontology service sector expresses resounding support for the program, provides practicum placements, and hires graduates.
Who makes a good Gerontology student?
Empathy, understanding, compassion, and a heart for social service and social justice – if these qualities describe you, perhaps a career working with older adults is for you.
Our students are passionate about working with older adults and develop?practical?skills and knowledge to meet the needs of this rapidly growing population.?We value our connections with the local senior-serving agencies who contribute to our program through guest presentations, field trips, and especially, practicum placement opportunities.
February 2020 | Amica – West Vancouver
The programs are structured for full-time studies, although exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis for students to complete the programs on a part-time basis or to enrol in individual courses with permission of the Program Coordinator.
Learn more about?Career Opportunities?in Gerontology.

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Overview

Admission Requirements

Program Curriculum

Information Sessions

Career Opportunities

Our Students

In the News

Practicum Opportunities