Admissions

Thank you for your interest in applying to VCU Gerontology. We offer both a 30-credit master of science in gerontology and a 15-credit certificate in aging studies.

APPLY NOW!

Application Deadlines

  • Fall Semester: May 1st (April 15th is the priority deadline*)
  • Spring Semester: November 1st (October 15th is the priority deadline*)
  • Summer Semester: March 1st

*Prospective students who submit by the priority date will be given priority consideration.

General Admission Requirements

Requirements are the same for the Master’s Program and Graduate Certificates.  For complete details, visit the VCU Graduate Bulletin.  

  • Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university or its equivalent
  • A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
  • Relevant work experience may compensate for a lower GPA
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Statement of intent
  • Current resume
  • Interview

If you are interested in pursuing a PhD, please visit the PhD in Health Related Sciences website. 

Application Process

VCU Gerontology applicants apply and submit supporting documentation electronically through VCU’s Graduate Admissions.   It is the responsibility of the applicant to make sure the application is complete and on time. You will receive a confirmation immediately upon submission of your documentation. Please allow 10 business days for processing before inquiring about your application. You will have the ability to track documentation, such as transcripts and letters of reference, using the online application account you will set up during the application process as described below.

    • All VCU Graduate School applications require an application fee, which is payable on-line to the Graduate School at the time the application is submitted. The amount of this fee is established yearly and will be communicated in all correspondence with prospective students. The current application fee is $70.00. This fee is non-refundable unless the program to which you are applying is canceled.
    • Three personal references. Please select individuals who can comment on the quality of your academic or work experience. You will enter the name and contact information for your reference into the application system. Your references will receive an automated email with instructions on how to submit their reference. Paper references are not accepted.  You will be able to verify the submission of each reference in the application portal.
    • Current resume or curriculum vitae. 
    • Transcripts. All courses taken, except at VCU, must be submitted on an official transcript from the institution where the courses were taken. This includes, but is not limited to, courses accepted for transfer credit at another institution, dual enrollment and study abroad. All institutions attended, including VCU (if applicable), must be listed on the application during the online process. Failure to comply with these instructions will result in the application being considered incomplete.
    • Statement of Intent. Applicants must state their reasons for pursuing graduate education in their planned course of study at VCU. 
  • Interview. Once you have submitted your application, you will need to complete the interview. You will receive an email with a link to complete your interview using InterviewStream.  You will be provided with five questions, and will submit a video recording of yourself answering these questions. 

Recent VCU Graduates

The Recent Alumni Master’s Opportunity is designed to help recent graduates further their education. This includes a waiver of the graduate application fee. Visit the RAM Opportunity page to learn more.  

International Students

If you are considering coming to VCU from a country outside of the U.S., please visit the Graduate School International Student page for resources. For help with immigration issues, housing, and more, visit the Global Education Office. 

Admission Decisions

Applicants are notified of admission decisions at the earliest possible date.