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Gerontology, Master's

See Program Details, Dates & Deadlines

Lead in Aging: Gain Knowledge and Skills to Improve Lives.

The online Master of Science in Gerontology empowers students with a strong foundation in the interdisciplinary field of aging. Through this program, students gain essential knowledge in research methods and explore critical issues that impact older adults and society. Designed to build both expertise and real-world skills, the curriculum equips students to effectively shape policies and programs that provide care, support, and services to older adults and their families. The program requires 36 to 42 graduate credits and offers options to specialize in a generalist track or focus on one of three areas: Aging and Applied Thanatology, Principles in the Management of Aging Services, or Social Entrepreneurship. Students benefit from courses shared with the prestigious joint doctoral program in Gerontology and the Erickson School for Aging Studies at the University of Maryland Baltimore County. Please note, this program is not eligible for F-1 or J-1 visa sponsorship.

Details, Dates & Deadlines

Program Details

Class Format

Online, Full Time, Part Time, Asynchronous

Asynchronous learning means that learning takes place at all different times for students enrolled in a course.

Program Location

Online

Program Length

24 months

Credits to Complete

36-42

Cost/Credit Hour

In State: $783
Out of State: $997

  • Online application
  • $75 application fee
  • Official transcripts
  • 300–500 word essay
  • Proof of English language proficiency
  • CV or resume
  • 1 letter or recommendation

Dates & Deadlines

Spring Deadline: December 1
Fall Deadline: July 1 

Program Overview

What is Gerontology?

Gerontology is the scientific study of aging processes and topics related to an aging society. It is both an applied and basic science that examines the physical, mental, social, emotional, vocational, and spiritual factors influencing aging. Although gerontology focuses on adults age 65 and older, the discipline recognizes that aging is best understood through a life course lens. Who we become in later life is shaped by the life we have lived, including social, economic, and environmental conditions that influence health and well-being. Unlike geriatrics, which concentrates on medical care, gerontology takes a broad, interdisciplinary approach, drawing on fields such as biology, psychology, sociology, public health, and social work to understand the aging process and the process of aging.

Why Study Gerontology?

Gerontology explores how biological, social, and cultural factors shape the aging experience. It equips students with the knowledge and skills to lead in healthcare, policy, research, and community programs. By understanding the life lived and social determinants, professionals can reduce ageism, improve quality of life, support independence, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of older adults, their families, and communities.

Program Structure

Our program is taught using a combination of live instruction via interactive video conferencing as well as individually-paced online modules. The hyflex option allows remote students to join face-to-face classes synchronously and interactively via video platforms, while our online modules allow students to complete assignments anytime, anywhere. 

  • The degree is designed for completion within 2 academic years, including one summer session, but students are allowed up to five years to complete the program.

  • Participants can start the program in the fall or spring term.

By 2030, older adults will represent more than 20% of the American population and by 2034 there will be more people age 65 and older than under the age of 18 (U.S. Census Bureau, 2019).

The online MS in Gerontology provides students with a core of knowledge in fundamental issues in the interdisciplinary field of gerontology, a foundation in research methods, and familiarity with questions of central concern in an aging society. Students must complete a curriculum consisting of 36-42* graduate credits and select either a generalist area of study or one of these areas of concentrations:

  • Aging & Applied Thanatology
  • Social Entrepreneurship
  • Principles in the Management of Aging Services

The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics reports that employment opportunities that intersect with aging and older adulthood will be among the highest occupational growth areas for the next several decades. While the demand will remain high in the healthcare industry, it is expanding to include positions related to prevention of age-related diseases; promotion of healthy habits; and self-management of chronic conditions.

Careers working with and on behalf of older adults are not limited to just the healthcare industry. Today, the workplaces for people knowledgeable in gerontology include:

  • Academia & Research
  • Adult Day Care
  • Advocacy Groups
  • Assisted Living Communities
  • Business, Management & Marketing
  • Case Management
  • Community Organizations
  • Consumer Product Development (esp. digital & electronic)
  • Counseling
  • Elder Law
  • Financial Services
  • Fitness & Wellness
  • Hospitals
  • Government Agencies
  • Long Term Insurance Companies
  • Mental Health News/Magazine Outlets
  • Nursing Homes
  • Pharmaceutical Companies 
  • Religious Organizations
  • Professional Volunteer Recruitment
  • Skilled Nursing Facilities
  • Transportation & Travel (inc. hospitality and leisure)

Required Courses

  • THAN 609: Perspectives in Aging (3 credits) OR AGNG 600: Social & Economic Context of Aging (3 credits) 
  • GERO 700: Sociocultural Gerontology (3 Credits) 
  • GERO 711: Biology of Aging (3 Credits) 
  • GERO 786: Psychological Aspects of Aging (3 Credits) 
  • GERO 750: Theory and Methods I (3 Credits) 
  • GERO 620: Health Communication and Aging (2 Credits) 
  • GERO 650: Internship in Gerontology I* (0-6 Credits) 
  • CIPP 907: Research Ethics (1 credit) 
  • GERO 672: Issues in Aging Policy (3 credits) 
  • GERO 797: Capstone in Gerontology (3 Credits) Or GERO 799: Master’s Thesis Research 
  • Master’s Thesis Research (6 credits) 

Elective Options by Concentration

Aging and Applied Thanatology  

  • THAN 604: Death and Dying: Ethical and Legal Considerations (3 Credits)
  • THAN 605: Palliative Care (3 Credits)
  • THAN 606: Caring for the Bereaved (3 Credits)

Social Entrepreneurship

  • INNO 600: Foundations in Health and Social Innovation (3 Credits)
  • INNO 602: Methods in Innovation (3 Credits) 
  • INNO 640: Business and Finance (3 Credits)
  • INNO 642: Marketing Strategies (3 Credits)  

Principles in Aging Services Management 

  • AGNG 604: Policy Foundations of Aging Services (3 Credits)
  • AGNG 611: Leadership, Management, & Organization II (3 Credits)
  • AGNG 612: Finance & Accounting (3 Credits)  

See Course Descriptions

At the University of Maryland, Baltimore, the MS in Gerontology program integrates interdisciplinary learning with practical experience. Students benefit from faculty who are leaders in their respective fields, professional development, and research opportunities tailored to advancing careers in aging. The program equips graduates to influence policy; design, implement, and assess programs; and address societal needs associated with aging populations. By combining scientific understanding with applied practice, the UMB MS in Gerontology prepares professionals equipped with knowledge and skills to enhance quality of life, support diverse older adult populations, and lead in shaping the future of an aging society.

Admission Requirements

Upload your transcripts as a supplemental item to the online application. 

You must submit transcripts from each college/university attended, including coursework in progress at time of application.  Unofficial copies may be provided for the application review process.  
If you are offered admission, you must then provide official transcripts from each college/university from which a degree was earned.  The transcript must be provided to the Graduate School directly from the prior, degree-granting institution in a sealed envelope in order for that document to be considered official.  Alternatively, it may be provided to the Graduate School electronically by way of a secure, encrypted platform.  Each transcript should bear the signature of the registrar and the seal of the granting institution. 

Transcripts (US only) may be obtained from/provided by one of the following secure, encrypted transcript services:
https://www.parchment.com/ 
https://www.studentclearinghouse.org/solutions/ed-transcripts/
Send encrypted, electronic transcripts from your issuing institution to: gradapply@umaryland.edu 

If provided by mail, send official transcripts in sealed envelopes to:
ATTN: Admissions
University of Maryland, Baltimore
Graduate School
620 West Lexington Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21201-1508

Essay
Your essay must be uploaded as a supplemental item to the online application.  The statement should be between 300- to 500-words and should address your academic and/or professional career goals and objectives in pursuing graduate study.   

CV or Resume
A Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume is required by most graduate programs.  Your CV or resume must be uploaded as part of the online application.

Letters of Recommendation
Applicants should provide at least one letter of recommendation from professors or others who can attest to the quality of your academic performance and scholastic potential.

English Language Proficiency (International Applicants Only)
The Graduate School accepts the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or the Duolingo English Test as a measure of English proficiency.  Minimum required scores are 80 on the Internet-based TOEFL, 7.0 on the IELTS, and 115 on the DET. Scores must be sent directly from ETS (for TOEFL, use institution code #5848), the IELTS agency, or Duolingo to the Graduate School.

Application for in-state status classification
Maryland residents only.  If you wish to be considered for in-state residency status for admission and tuition purposes, you must complete an Application for In-State Classification and submit it to the campus classification officer within the Office of the Registrar.

If you have problems with or questions about the application process, please contact us at 410.706.7131 or gradapply@umaryland.edu 

  • International Opportunities

    The University of Maryland, Baltimore offers unique global aging programs that provide interdisciplinary, cross-cultural learning opportunities. The Aging in Japan course immerses students in Japan’s policy, cultural, social, and technological approaches to aging through preparatory coursework and a two-week faculty-led experience. The COIL-designed Aging in Place course brings together students from UMB and University of Helsinki (Finland) for comparative analysis of ageism, social determinants of health, health literacy, and caregiving. The Costa Rica Aging Fellowship promotes collaborative research, teaching, and service with the University of Costa Rica, enhancing understanding of aging issues in diverse global contexts.

    Learn More

Contact Us

Admissions

Arielle Faulkner
Admissions Counselor
afaulkner@umaryland.edu 
410-706-7132 

Academics

Dr. Diane Martin
Program Co-Director
diane.martin@umaryland.edu 

Dr. Denise Orwig
Program Co-Director
dorwig@som.umaryland.edu 

  • Meet Your Faculty

    Our distinguished faculty, composed of accomplished scholars and experienced health care professionals, will guide your educational journey. Drawing from their expertise, they'll steer you through our comprehensive programs, preparing you for success in educational research and leadership roles in health care and medical organizations.

    View Faculty Bios

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Next Steps

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620 W. Lexington St.
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 706-3100

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