Gerontology Minor — Chico State Skip to Main Content
California State University, Chico
College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Gerontology Minor

A staff member is sitting in a room across from an elderly patient who is assorting a pile of colorful tiles.
  • Program Type

    Undergraduate Minor

  • Delivery Type

    On Campus

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Make a meaningful impact by working with older adults and their families through the gerontology minor. As the proportion of the world's residents over 60 is expected to double by 2050, there’s an increasing demand and crucial need for professionals who understand the unique biological, social, and psychological challenges of this aging population. This minor is offered in-person and fully online.

This minor prepares you to support and improve the lives of older individuals across a variety of settings including human services, healthcare, social services, and policy development. As a bonus, you’ll learn more about your own aging and the changes to expect in your family and ways to support them.

A student works with an older adult to conduct a hearing test at the Communication Sciences and Disorders Clinic

Prepare for a Career in Wellness

Combining courses in social work, psychology, health, and sociology, you'll develop the skills to work in settings like hospitals, care facilities, and community programs, preparing you to make a difference in the lives of older adults and their families.

Your Path to a Rewarding Career

Acquire specialized knowledge and skills to work with the aging population in health and social services. Some of the skills you will gain include:

  • Advocacy for older adults
  • Case management and care planning
  • Counseling and communication with older adults
  • Family dynamics and support
  • Health and wellness for seniors
  • Social work and community outreach
  • Understanding aging and age-related conditions

Expand Your Career Horizons

The gerontology minor enhances majors in health, psychology, and social services, preparing you for roles in aging services, healthcare, and family support, while also bolstering your personal knowledge.

Majors to consider:

By completing a gerontology-related professional internship, you can also receive the Gerontology Certificate along with the minor.

Two students smile and talk with two older adults who use wheelchairs as part of a site visit for an adult physical therapy class.

Build Connections with Lasting Impact

With 240+ clubs and organizations on campus, you’ll find ample opportunity to exercise your knowledge in a fulfilling atmosphere. Intern at Passages or spend time with older adults at a local assisted living facility through Community Action Volunteers in Education.