Assistant Dean: Marie Ribarich, Ph.D.
Chidwick 204 914-654-5561
Master of Science Degree in Gerontology – 36 Credits
The Gerontology Program is interdisciplinary in approach and designed for students preparing for a professional career working with older persons or students already employed in the human service field who wish to refocus their skill to more effectively work with older persons. Graduates of the program have continued on to many diverse careers. Some provide direct care to older clients in such fields as care management. Others direct offices of aging, nursing homes, assisted living facilities or other age-related activities and programs. Some graduates have brought their expertise to a field in the private sector such as retirement planning, advertising or human services. Still others have used their knowledge within present careers as educators, clergy, or healthcare professionals. Some graduates have become entrepreneurs, developing new services for an aging population.
The interdisciplinary approach to gerontological education incorporates the contributions of biology, psychology, sociology and spirituality as they relate to the natural processes and consequences of aging. A strong emphasis of the program is cohort analysis, recognizing how the experiences of each will shape their response to aging. This academic foundation is complemented by relevant research and data analysis in the field of aging studies, by skill development courses, including those within the student’s specialization, and by appropriate field experience.
The Master’s program offers two options for specialization: (1) administration (focusing on planning and administrating programs for the older persons) and (2) counseling and direct service to older persons.
Admission
Students may apply for admission to the master’s degree program or to the certificate program. All applicants must satisfy the minimum requirements for admission to the Graduate School. Applicants must submit with their application:
- a 250-word typed essay stating their purpose in undertaking the study of gerontology, including personal background and experience and intended use of the professional education;
- two letters of recommendation;
- official transcripts from all institutions of higher education attended
After all documents have been received, applicants may be invited for a personal interview with the Assistant Dean or with a faculty member of the Admissions Committee.
At the time of the interview a writing sample will be requested. This sample will identify those who might benefit from assistance from The College of New Rochelle’s Learning Support Services, available at no cost to students admitted to the program.
Entry-level knowledge and skills, as well as practical experiences, will be evaluated at the time of admission to determine the most advantageous educational experience. Applicants failing to meet the minimum standards for admission may be admitted on probationary status.