Overview
Looking for a meaningful career? Do you care about older adults in your life and community? If so, then you want to be part of the dynamic and growing field of gerontology. Langara offers two programs in this field.
DIPLOMA IN GERONTOLOGY (62 CREDITS)
In the two-year Diploma in Gerontology program, students develop advanced skills and knowledge for positions related to program development, administration, and management. Graduates are prepared to provide innovative services to older adults that prevent social isolation, promote mental, physical, and emotional health, and support older adults to age in place while staying active in their communities.
SOCIAL SERVICE WORKER (GERONTOLOGY) CERTIFICATE (31 CREDITS)
In the one-year gerontology specialization program, students develop practical skills and knowledge to meet the needs of the rapidly growing population of older adults. Students in the certificate program take the first two terms of the Diploma in Gerontology program and exit with the recognized credential of Social Service Worker. Graduates are prepared to work with a population of older persons from diverse backgrounds.
HANDS-ON TRAINING
Combining theory with practice, students gain specialized knowledge and skills to work with individuals, families, and communities to promote health and resilience throughout the aging process. These programs prepare graduates for employment in the field of gerontology within a wide range of service settings such as: health and wellness, education, recreation, community support, advocacy, residential, and palliative care. The gerontology service sector expresses resounding support for the program, provides practicum placements, and hires graduates. Learn more about the hands-on training provided in our practicum opportunities.
Who makes a good Gerontology student?
Empathy, understanding, compassion, and a heart for social service and social justice - if these qualities describe you, perhaps a career working with older adults is for you.
Our students are passionate about working with older adults and develop practical skills and knowledge to meet the needs of this rapidly growing population. We value our connections with the local senior-serving agencies who contribute to our program through guest presentations, field trips, and especially, practicum placement opportunities.
February 2020 | Amica - West Vancouver
Aging in Community
Langara's Gerontology program promises graduates the skills and training to provide innovative services to older adults that prevent social isolation, promote mental, physical, and emotional health, and support older adults to age in place while staying active in their communities. It was the program's focus on community that was a highlight for Miriam. "I loved building community based practices with older adults." she says.
Learn more about Miriam's experience in the field of Gerontology.
The programs are structured for full-time studies, although exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis for students to complete the programs on a part-time basis or to enrol in individual courses with permission of the Program Coordinator.
Passionate about helping seniors? You may be eligible for one of our awards such as the Herma Neyndorff Gerontology Award that provides financial support for our students.
Learn more about Career Opportunities in Gerontology.