Gerontology

New demographic – new career possibilities

There are more people over the age of 65 alive today than any other period in history. The U.S. Census Bureau projects that the number of older persons will surpass the number of children within 10 years.

The ISU Gerontology Program applies a cross-section of university-wide disciplines to the study of aging to prepare graduates in diverse areas of a profession with almost unlimited growth and reach. The program strengths include:

  • A cross-departmental curriculum allows students to pursue their own interests and gain skills in a wide variety of gerontology-related areas: from architecture to exercise to technology. Faculty/discipline areas »
  • Online programs are available for working professionals. Students benefit from available online-only programs and online programs that combine with on-campus courses. More »
  • Gerontology program collaborates with other universities and colleges across the state to improve gerontology education. ICAP »
  • Incoming graduate students can apply for a first-year research assistantship. More »
  • Faculty, staff, and students are involved in a variety of programs and services that directly help older Iowans. More »
  • Gerontology research on campus addresses issues from the lab to the community. More »
  • Why study aging?

    Video »

    In this video students from several Iowa schools share advice and insights about the study of gerontology, rewarding and diverse career options, and job security well into the future.

    (Video by ICAP partners and the Iowa Gerontological Society)

  • Did You Know?

    Aging individuals and their families can locate resources like Powerful Tools for Caregivers offered through Iowa State Extension and Outreach.

  • Spring Colloquia

    February 27, 4-5 PM:  Janis Terpenny (Iowa State University)

    March 27, 4-5 PM:  Sato Ashida (University of Iowa)

    April 10, 3:30-5 PM: Dr. Ed McAuley (University of Illinois)

    Contacts: Dr. Young-A Lee (ylee@iastate.edu) or Dr. Johnny Wong (wong@iastate.edu)