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
Program Core Courses
Course Description
This course is designed to prepare students for the graduate learning experience at Grand Canyon University. Students have opportunities to develop and strengthen the skills necessary to succeed as graduate students in the liberal arts. Emphasis is placed on utilizing the tools for graduate success.
Course Description
This course serves as the foundation for advanced graduate study in the field of psychology. Professional skill development, such as critical thinking, scholarly writing, and literature reviewing are covered, as well as contemporary ethical issues in the field of psychology, including issues in research, writing, psychotherapy, forensic psychology, and animal research.
Course Description
This course is a study of social, group, and multicultural factors affecting individual behavior. Attention is given to the development of attitudes, leadership roles, group thinking, sources of conflict, altruism, attraction, effects of competition and cooperation, analysis and evaluation of propaganda techniques, and the influence of mass communication on social awareness and control.
Course Description
This course is a critical examination of social policies and systems which affect aging and retirement. The impact of multiple social contexts such as family, employment, work, and religion are examined.
Course Description
This course introduces the concept of death in society. Students examine research, theories, and case studies on the sociocultural dimensions of death and dying with a focus on end of life issues and grief management.
Course Description
This course provides a study of theories of probability, descriptive and inferential analyses of data, and testing of statistical hypotheses. Practical experience is provided in the application of statistical methods.
Course Description
This course emphasizes both the theoretical and applied aspects of experimental design and research methodology at the graduate level, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed designs.
Course Description
This course examines the biological principles and research that explain the causes of aging. An investigation into the human experience of biological aging, longevity, and age-related disease is made in order promote and modulate successful aging.
Course Description
This course examines the psychological, emotional, and spiritual aspects of aging. There is a focus on promoting positive aging and increasing well-being. Prerequisite: PSY-630.
Course Description
This course prepares students to enter their prospective career and/or continue their education in psychology. Students will explore occupations and leaders in the various psychological fields, formulate and compile their experiences and achievements, and construct a roadmap for success. Original research ideas will be solidified and presented.
Online
Pursue a next-generation education with an online degree from Grand Canyon University. Earn your degree with convenience and flexibility with online courses that let you study anytime, anywhere. GCU offers the most experienced leadership in delivering online degree programs. Full-time faculty members and fully trained adjunct instructors, equipped with strong academic backgrounds and practical experience in their fields, support you every step of the way. Designed with the career-oriented professional in mind, our online classes provide an intimate environment that stimulates engaging and challenging discussions. Choose from programs across our distinct colleges, in high-demand employment areas. Classes begin frequently.
Evening
Grand Canyon University’s evening programs cater to the demands of working professionals who prefer an in-person learning environment. Our night classes meet just once per week and offer the interaction and discussion of a typical college classroom. Night classes are designed for a specific number of students, providing a warm and nurturing environment that supports an engaging experience. In an evening cohort, you will progress through your degree program with the same career-minded classmates, providing an opportunity to network and forge relationships that go beyond the classroom. Classes begin frequently at various locations, including our main campus.
* Please note that this list may contain programs that are not presently offered as program availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability of the program.
* Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Program subject to change.