Gerontology

Across the country, long-term care providers are experiencing a shortage of qualified and committed direct-care workers to address the needs of America's aging population. The Center for Gerontology at Western Michigan University was initiated to address that need.

With support from University and community stakeholders, the center serves as a catalyst for health-related research in aging and provides educational programs and service-learning activities that offer lifelong learning for professionals, older adults and their families.

Minor in Gerontology

The gerontology minor complements many WMU majors. It begins with Gerontology 1000, which is also a WMU Essential Studies course. The four additional required courses are described in the Academics section of this page.

Graduate Certificate in Aging Studies

This 9 credit certificate is offered fully online with options to meet with instructors and other students. This certificate begins in August 2019 and replaces the previous 15 credit Graduate Certificate in Gerontology. Learn more.

News and Announcements

Gernant Scholarship Recipients

In 1975, the Leonard and Frances A. Gernant Gerontology Scholarship Fund was created to ensure that gerontology have a place at WMU. The award provides funds for individuals dedicated to a career in health and human services with an emphasis on the aging. Meet the recipients.