What Skills Will You Gain from a VCU Gerontology Master’s Degree?
The VCU Gerontology M.S. program prepares graduates for high impact, satisfying careers in aging services, health care leadership, community development and policy. This flexible, learner-centered 30-credit program, typically completed in two years, delivers in-demand skills that align directly with today’s real world job requirements.
This degree is more than a credential. It’s a direct pathway to well paying and secure leadership roles in aging services, public health, nonprofit management, health care systems and beyond.
You’ll learn to lead with integrity, navigate complex ethical issues and work effectively across teams and systems.
Through presentations, writing assignments and public engagement, students master oral and written communication, public speaking, negotiation and interpersonal effectiveness.
The curriculum strengthens your ability to manage diverse responsibilities, coordinate events, plan outreach and meet deadlines in professional environments.
You’ll be trained to analyze data, interpret policies, regulations and design programs that improve long-term services and supports for older adults.
Coursework and applied projects emphasize financial planning, report writing and understanding regulatory frameworks at local, state and national levels.
Learn to incorporate community input into planning and outreach efforts, organize events and engage in advocacy for age-inclusive, equity-centered services.
Build knowledge of direct care workforce challenges and gain familiarity with workforce policy and initiatives across the country.
Graduates are equipped to evaluate complex issues, synthesize research and draw valid conclusions that inform practice and innovation.