This program provides an advanced understanding of aging and equips you with specialized skills to improve outcomes. You’ll learn to advocate for older adults, educate others on age-inclusive practices and drive change in how society supports aging populations.
Comprehensive training in aging can open doors to diverse career paths and leadership opportunities. Beyond health care, your expertise will be valuable in sectors that serve older adults, ranging from insurance and banking to law and social work.
You’ll graduate prepared to lead in long-term care, aging services, case management, palliative care and end-of-life care. You may also pursue research opportunities or launch senior-focused ventures.
The knowledge and skills you’ll develop
Courses explore gerontological frameworks to understand the holistic needs of older patients, including how to distinguish normal aging from signs of abnormality. You’ll examine the physical, psychological and social impacts of acute and chronic conditions. Coursework also addresses the broad scope of supporting older adults through direct care and systems-level solutions.
In addition to theoretical knowledge, you’ll build hands-on skills to:
- Advocate for health care policy reform.
- Analyze and apply aging-related research.
- Assess response to interventions.
- Design and implement evidence-based programs.
- Effectively communicate with older adults.
- Navigate the financial aspects of aging, such as retirement, health care, wills and trusts.
- Provide support to caregivers.
Prepare for gerontologist credentialing from an Age-Friendly University
ASU is recognized as an Age-Friendly University by the Gerontological Society of America, joining a global network committed to advancing age-inclusive programs and policies. This program’s curriculum is guided by the Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education competencies and provides a strong academic foundation in aging and older adult well-being.
After graduating, you can apply for the gerontologist credential through the National Association of Professional Gerontologists (NAPG). This designation can strengthen your resume and support your career advancement.
Want to learn more about this program and other graduate offerings from ASU’s Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation? Register for an upcoming live virtual information session.
Support aging individuals, families and communities with an online Master of Science in aging from Arizona State University. In this program, you’ll gain a holistic understanding of aging, with a focus on improving well-being and recognizing the value older adults bring to society. Expertise in gerontology positions you for professional credentialing and high-impact roles across sectors.
Courses examine the multidimensional aging process and strategies to support older adults. You’ll also explore national health initiatives and community collaborations created to improve health outcomes. This program includes core courses, electives, an optional stackable specialization and an applied project with an evidence-based proposal.
Opportunities such as site visits help you build a professional network and connect with organizations that serve older adults. You’re also encouraged to engage with faculty researchers at ASU’s Center for Innovation in Healthy and Resilient Aging.
Faculty contribute to the field through ongoing research and leadership in mission-driven organizations. They’ve designed and evaluated interventions that have earned honors from major organizations and have taken on influential roles in aging-related initiatives.
Recognitions include:
- Administration on Aging’s Alzheimer’s Disease Supportive Services Program
- American Psychological Association
- American Red Cross Nurse’s Pin
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Leadership and membership roles include:
- Chairman of the board of directors, Area Agency on Aging/Region 1
- Geriatric Education Research Clinical Center Scholar
- Member of Arizona Alzheimer’s Consortium
ASU’s Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation provides a world-class education to students across various health disciplines. We distinguish ourselves by delivering excellent programs and challenging courses led by high-quality instructors.
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Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation.
Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree, in any field, from a regionally accredited institution. Applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 semester hours of a first bachelor’s degree for standard admission. Or applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
The admission committee will consider lower GPAs for provisional admission with an explanation of your circumstances.
All applicants must submit:
- Graduate admission application and application fee
- Official transcripts
- Resume
An applicant whose native language is not English (regardless of current residency) must provide proof of English proficiency.
ASU's academic programs that prepare you for professional licensure or certification are designed to meet Arizona's requirements. Completing an ASU program may not fulfill educational requirements for licensure or certification in other states. For additional information, visit the professional licensure webpage.
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”