What Is Geropsychology?

Every aging adult deserves to lead a full life. However, the elderly often experience psychological issues that inhibit quality of life. Geropsychology is a specialized field of psychology that focuses on understanding and addressing the mental health concerns that may affect older adults. You can blend passion with purpose by enrolling in the Master of Science in Psychology with an Emphasis in Geropsychology degree program at Grand Canyon University. The MS in geropsychology is offered by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.

Acquire foundational knowledge in the psychological and neurological aspects of aging. Learn to contribute to the field’s knowledge of the cognitive and psychosocial changes that affect elderly populations. Examine best practices in applied psychological theories and research to support families and healthcare providers who work with aging adults. The geropsychology degree, offered online by GCU, also explores coping strategies, physical health issues, end of life matters and ethical practices.

What to Expect in a Geropsychology Master of Science Program

GCU is a modern university with technological adaptations to meet the needs of its diverse student body. Learners may complete the geropsychology degree online or via evening classes on campus. All courses are taught by fully qualified instructors who are experts in their field, and both online and on-campus courses enable students to engage in intellectually stimulating discussions with their peers.

The MS in geropsychology program follows a timely and relevant curriculum focused on ethical frameworks for enhancing the health, wellness and quality of life of elderly populations. Students acquire key skills in analytical reasoning and evidence-based strategies. The program explores physical, cognitive and spiritual care for individuals at the end of life.

Learn Best Practices and Strategies for Elderly Care in the Geropsychology MS Degree

Geropsychology students examine the relationship between body and mind, and identify the appropriate interventions that may inspire positive change. Some of the core program courses include the following:

• Sociology of Aging
• Death and Dying
• Physical Health and the Biology of Aging
• Psychological, Emotional and Spiritual Aspects of Aging
• Contemporary and Ethical Issues in Psychology

The modern curriculum provides a comprehensive survey of issues relevant to aging populations to enhance students’ understanding of their future clients. Delve into the social, group and multicultural factors that affect individual behavior. Critically examine the social policies and systems that affect aging and retirement. Learn strategies for promoting wellbeing later in life, and study the sociocultural dimensions of death and dying.

The geropsychology Master of Science program concludes with the Professional Capstone. This is designed to prepare students to continue their education or pursue professional objectives.

Care for Elderly Populations with a Psychology Master’s in Geropsychology

The demand for qualified elderly providers is expected to grow significantly. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, all baby boomers will be older than age 65 by the year 2030*. One in every five residents will be of retirement age. The U.S. Census Bureau also notes that, during the 2030s, the population of older adults will outnumber the population of children for the first time in U.S. history*.

The demand for professionals with specialized expertise in the needs of older adults will rise as the population ages. If you feel called upon to serve your elders, you may find work in the following settings after earning your MS in geropsychology:

• Hospitals and clinics
• Nursing homes
• Long-term care facilities
• Mental health facilities
• Government agencies

Some graduates may choose to pursue a research-based career. Private- and government-funded research initiatives explore issues common among older adults, including Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

*Source: https://www.census.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2018/cb18-41-population-projections.html