Learn more about studying gerontology at our Feb. 24 virtual info session “VCU Gerontology's Geriatric Care Manager Program: Learn More.

Gerontology isn’t a single job. It’s a lens that makes you indispensable in fields that are all being reshaped by shifting demographics. This is because older adults are the fastest-growing population in our communities globally. From state and local agencies, to nonprofits and private industry, you can find gerontologists working to build thriving communities across the world that are leading the way with creative, effective, and impactful programs and services.

Morgan Carr, VCU Gerontology graduate student, is contributing to the expansive work of community gerontology in a variety of ways. As a project manager, she collaborates with VCU faculty Dr. Gigi Amateau and VCU staff Catherine MacDonald, M.S. to create pathways toward nourishing food, friendship and behavioral health support for older adults. ACL Senior Nutrition Program and Behavioral Health, funded through the Administration for Community Living, aims to help congregate meal programs to better support tribal elders and older adults experiencing homelessness. Community partners include CARITAS, Homeward, The Span Center, the Pamunkey Indian Tribe, the Upper Mattaponi Indian Tribe, the Chickahomini Indian Tribe, and JFNA’s Center on Aging, Trauma, and Holocaust Survivor Care. 

“[VCU Gerontology] really helped me to approach such sensitive topics as aging and homelessness from a lens of compassion and respect,” said Carr. “Classes like Problems, Issues and Trends, as well as Social Gerontology, were vital in giving me the background information and ability to think about issues that face older adults from different perspectives.”

We need leaders who understand the value of empathy, longevity, equity, connection and systems change. In a world facing automation or contraction, gerontologists are equipped with invaluable skills that rely on empathy and systems thinking. All of which are key components to the human connection, ethics and community programs that create pathways to optimal aging for older adults.

In the United States alone, there are 56 State Units on Aging (SUAs) in all 50 states and 622 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) that employ over 34,000 individuals. Job opportunities for people with gerontological education are growing in policy, advocacy and community-based service provision.

Help shape the lives of millions by building programs, influencing policy and transforming systems that make a difference. A degree in gerontology is a direct pathway to well paying and secure leadership roles in aging services, public health, nonprofit management, health care systems and beyond.

With flexible options for study, scholarship opportunities and excellent tuition value, such as residency-neutral tuition for online students, our program offers a tailored experience that works with you to achieve your dreams.

You can discover more about gerontology by attending our 30-minute virtual information session on Feb. 24 at noon. Register today to explore the expansive career field of gerontology and learn why our program is right for you.

Be the change you want to see in the world. For a one-on-one meeting to discuss your degree and career goals, please contact gerontology@vcu.edu – our faculty would love to talk about how we can support your next steps.