Gerontology Minor 

Gerontology: What is it?

Gerontology is the scientific study of the aging process in humans. In July of 1983, for the first time in history, the number of people over the age of 65 surpassed the number of teenagers in the United States. With 35 million people over 65 by the year 2000, this group will significantly affect graduates in virtually every academic discipline. Economically this group will have the greatest amount of discretionary (spendable) money of any age group. This interdisciplinary minor will equip you with a vitally important competitive edge as your profession learns to deal with the needs of an aging society.

Who Benefits from this Minor?

Aside from an obvious benefit of our rapidly aging society, this minor will financially benefit students in a wide variety of academic majors. The desires of the baby-boom generation have always dictated economic strategies in American business and popular culture. Now America will shift from a preoccupation with youth to an increasing awareness of the needs, problems and dreams of a middle-aged and older population. Think how each of the following professions will be impacted: Business; Health Care; Political Science; Construction; Counseling; Communications; Law Enforcement; Sociology; Education; Insurance; Marketing; Psychology; Environmental Science; Occupational Therapy; Recreation; and Social Work

Eligibility and Information

Any candidate for a bachelor's degree at Eastern Kentucky University who maintains a grade point average of 2.0 or above is eligible for this minor.

Requirements for this Minor