Gerontology student working with a senior

Behavioral Science: Gerontology

Bachelor of Science
  • 120 Credits
  • School of Social and Behavioral Sciences
  • Bronx
  • Manhattan
  • Online
  • Westchester
  1. Academics
  2. Programs & Degrees
  3. Behavioral Science: Gerontology
Gerontology major offers senior a warm touch

Behavioral Science: Gerontology Overview

Demand has never been higher for professionals who specialize in gerontology. The Gerontology concentration brings focus to the study of aging and longevity. It is concerned with the psychological, sociological and behavioral aspects of the life course and lifespan.  Learn the skills you need to excel in a rewarding and growing field. 

Exercising in New York

The specialization in Gerontology includes the following courses

*All Behavioral Science students must complete:

Plus three elective courses selected under advisement from the major offerings in psychology and/or sociology numbered 200 and above.

Gerontology major helps senior citizen

Career Opportunities

As the aging population grows, graduates with a gerontology degree have obtained positions in academia, research, direct care, non-profits, governmental agencies, business, and product development. With a degree in aging, the possibilities are endless.  Specific careers students have entered include:

  • Centers for Medicare and Medicaid
  • Local Area Agencies on Aging (AAA)
  • Nursing
  • Rehabilitation therapies
  • Case management
  • Marketing research firms
  • Pharmaceutical corporations
  • Architecture working on universal design
Flexible schedule allows students to study when it's convenient for them.

The Mercy Advantage

  • Flexible schedule
  • Study your specific interests
  • Experienced professors
  • Various internship opportunities

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Frequently Asked Questions

Faculty are always ready to help students with questions about what courses to take, the sequencing of courses, and career opportunities, including internships.

Please contact Sarah Hahn (shahn@mercy.edu) for more information.

A wide variety of courses such as Career and Life Planning Credit, and internships can help you decide. All courses in the Behavioral Sciences are taught by professors who have much experience in a variety of workplaces, schools, corporations, health centers, which they are ready to share with you.

No, the gerontology concentration courses are within the 36 credits of the major.

Yes. The major has 4 required courses and 8 electives which means that courses that you have taken already may be evaluated and may be credited toward your major. Such courses may also be counted as electives.

A warm embrace from a Behavioral Science major.

Program Outcomes

At the end of this program, students should be able to:

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Apply psychological and sociological concepts to career goals

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Identify, and compare quantitative and qualitative methods, research designs, and basic statistical tools

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Explain how the study of social class, ethnicity, gender, age, race, and religion can facilitate cultural competencies, focusing on social and personal awareness

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Apply psychological and sociological principles, theories, and research to personal, cultural, and organizational situations

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Describe the services available and needed to provide for the well-being of older adults

Program Details & Curriculum

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General Liberal Arts and Sciences
General Education Requirements: 60 Credits

Major Concentration
Behavioral Science: 36 Credits
Open Electives: 24 Credits

Total: 120 Credits

For a full curriculum listing visit our catalog.

 

Download a copy of the sequence map for:

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Full-Time Faculty

Part-Time Faculty

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