JOIN THE GERO-PUNK MOVEMENT. To be a gero-punk is to bravely and critically reflect upon, interrogate and create new ways of thinking about and experiencing the aging journey.

Led by gerontologist scholar, practitioner and self-described gero-punk, Dr. Jennifer Sasser, the gerontology program at Marylhurst engages in meaningful, transformative learning for all humans, of all ages – both inside the academy and outside of it.

The program is committed to contemplative practice, critical thinking and collaborative cross-generational modes of inquiry, learning and praxis. You will learn through formal and informal learning communities in which you'll engage questions about what it means to travel through the life-course. You will improv and play, reflect and rebel, study and explore – all the while working towards a deeper and wider understanding of human aging.

During your studies in the gerontology certificate program, you'll:

• Explore the social, psychological and biophysical changes that occur as part of the aging process
• Examine the political and economic issues of old age
• Learn how to understand the aging process through social, cultural and historical contexts
• Develop a greater appreciation of the diversity of individual aging experiences due to gender, race/ethnicity and class
• Gather information about potential career, service and additional learning opportunities

Many students who study gerontology are interested in pursuing our Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies, which features a concentration in gerontology.

Careers in Gerontology

New professional roles are emerging and traditional roles are expanding to adapt to the needs of an aging population. Gerontological specialists can be found in the fields of law, corrections, human services, counseling, education, business, housing and government.

Most follow one of two career ladders in the field of aging: the specialist and the administrator. Specialists continue to develop skills and gain increased responsibilities as health care or service providers, educators and researchers. Administrators lead organizations and agencies, influencing policy and program development.

Occupational Profile on O*NET
(21-1093: Social and Human Service Assistants)

Program Length & Costs

The estimated time to complete the program is 12 months. Estimated costs are:

Tuition* (24 credits) = $10,104
Books & Supplies ($50 per credit) = $1200
TOTAL = $11,304

*Calculated at the current 2012-13 tuition rate.