Not in Charlotte? Check out our lists of Gerontology Programs in Cary, Concord, Durham, Fayetteville, Greensboro, High Point, Raleigh, Wilmington, Winston-Salem, and across North Carolina.
Curious about gerontology programs in Charlotte, NC?
As our population ages, expertise in elder care becomes increasingly vital.
This guide zeroes in on Charlotte’s top gerontology programs, designed for those eager to lead in the field of aging studies.
We’ve sifted through the academic landscape to bring you the essential details you need.
UNC Charlotte – Gerontology Program
If you’re interested in exploring the dimensions of aging and making a genuine difference in the lives of older adults, the Gerontology Program at UNC Charlotte could be your perfect match. Established in the mid-1980s, this program prides itself on an interdisciplinary education, bridging various disciplines to provide a well-rounded understanding of gerontology.
- Curriculum Diversity: Delve into courses that span from biology and psychology to social work and ethics, all focused on the intricate aspects of aging.
- Program Options: Whether you’re pursuing an undergraduate minor or a graduate certificate, there’s a pathway suited to your academic goals.
- Community Engagement: Join a community of like-minded peers who are committed to the study and improvement of geriatric care.
- Research Initiatives: Engage in meaningful research projects, such as examining the disparities in transgender aging, that push the boundaries of gerontology.
Dr. Cynthia Hancock, the esteemed Program Director, leads this endeavor and maintains a supportive community atmosphere. The program’s Instagram presence serves as a hub for students to connect and share insights. Although tuition details are not listed on their website, contacting the program directly can provide you with all the particulars you need to make an informed decision.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte – Graduate Certificate in Gerontology
Designed to complement a variety of professional backgrounds, the Graduate Certificate in Gerontology at UNC Charlotte opens doors for those looking to specialize in aging studies, whether fresh out of undergraduate studies or well into a career.
- Interdisciplinary Approach: It’s not just about aging; it’s about understanding aging from multiple vantage points.
- Flexible Integration: Seamlessly integrate the certificate with Master’s or Ph.D. studies for an enriched educational experience.
- Admission Requirements: Prepare your resume, statement of purpose, transcripts, and two recommendation letters for a competitive application.
Taking charge of this program, Dr. Cynthia Hancock ensures a rigorous yet supportive learning experience. Please note, the program’s website doesn’t directly list hourly commitments or financials — be sure to reach out to the provided contacts for the finer details.
UNC Charlotte School of Nursing – Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program
For the practicing nurse with a heart for critical care, the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program at UNC Charlotte could be the catalyst for propelling your career forward.
- Clinical Excellence: Receive training designed to excel in the care of critically ill adults.
- Academic Partnerships: Benefit from collaborations with top healthcare systems for hands-on experience.
- Professional Development: Faculty like Dr. Tonya Anderson and Dr. David Langford infuse their expert knowledge and experience directly into the program’s curriculum.
Candidates will need an unencumbered RN license and a BSN degree to start, then prepare for a challenging curriculum spread across core, cognate, and specialty courses — all leading to a comprehensive project or thesis. Classes are conveniently timed to support both full-time students and working professionals, mainly occurring late afternoons or evenings.
Atrium Health – Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) Program
In partnership with UNC Charlotte, Atrium Health offers an AGACNP Program that merges clinical expertise with academic rigor, resulting in a master’s degree designed to elevate your practice to the next level.
- Critical Skill Building: Sharpen your decision-making and technical skills, readying you for complex patient management.
- Diverse Clinical Experiences: Learn from the best at Atrium Health, gaining exposure to a variety of healthcare settings.
- Advanced Credentialing: This program is not just about attaining an MSN; it’s a stepping stone to national certification.
To tailor your training, 47 credit hours pave the way for mastery in acute and outpatient settings. It’s a rigorous yet rewarding journey, setting you firmly on the path to becoming an AGACNP. If you’re already a practicing NP, further certification routes are available, keeping in line with the high standards set by UNCC’s Graduate Admissions Committee.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte – Dual Practicum Experience in Social Work and Gerontology
Are you a senior in the BSW program seeking immersive field experience in both Social Work and Gerontology? The University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers a Dual Practicum Experience that integrates these two essential disciplines in one cohesive placement.
- Total Hour Commitment: You’ll complete 456 hours, giving you ample time to apply your classroom knowledge in the real world.
- Specialized Focus: Devote 90 of these hours exclusively to Gerontology, preparing you for the specific needs of elderly care.
- Streamlined Schedule: The practicum spans across the fall and spring semesters with an additional requirement of a senior seminar.
- Mentor Guidance: You’ll work closely with practicum supervisors and Gerontology advisors to ensure a successful practicum outcome.
This unique dual focus is designed to ensure that when you step into the workforce, you’ll be well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of the aging population. You’ll not just be a Social Worker with a heart for the elderly; you’ll be a gerontology-informed professional ready to make a difference.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte – Graduate Certificate in Gerontology
Become a beacon of support for the elderly with specialized counseling skills. The Graduate Certificate in Gerontology at UNC Charlotte is a meticulously tailored program that hones your ability to offer outstanding mental health care to older adults.
- Specialized Courses: Engage in four top-tier courses that teach you best practices in counseling for older adults.
- Current Issues Insight: Stay abreast of the latest challenges facing the aging population.
- Comprehensive Viewpoint: The program integrates various academic perspectives, such as social sciences and healthcare administration.
Guided by Dr. Cynthia Hancock, this certificate channels your passion for counseling into the realm of social justice, equipping you with the tools to address the growing mental health needs of our aging society.
Buyer’s Guide: Selecting the Right Gerontology Program for Your Career Path
Selecting the right gerontology program in Charlotte NC requires careful consideration. Think of it as charting a course for your future in the challenging yet rewarding field of elder care. Keep the following aspects in mind:
- Accreditation: Make sure the program you’re considering is recognized and accredited by relevant educational and professional organizations.
- Curriculum Quality: Look for curriculums that offer a balance of foundational knowledge and practical experience.
- Clinical Opportunities: Practical experience is invaluable. Seek out programs that offer robust internships or practicums in elder care settings.
- Faculty Expertise: The credentials and experience of the faculty are telling. Choose programs where you’ll learn from leaders in the field.
- Healthcare Facility Engagement: Strong partnerships with healthcare facilities can enhance your learning experience and your career prospects down the line.
- Program Costs and Schedules: Ensure the program’s schedule aligns with your lifestyle, and get a clear picture of the costs involved.
- Career Pathways: Consider how the program will support your career goals, whether that be in healthcare administration, direct patient care, or academic research.
Remember, you’re laying the groundwork for a career that will impact countless lives. Choose a program that reflects your commitment to making a difference.
Conclusion: Your Future in Gerontology Starts in Charlotte
Charlotte, NC, is not just a bustling metropolitan hub; it’s a springboard for your future in the deeply fulfilling field of gerontology. The gerontology programs in Charlotte, NC, present a garden of opportunity for any prospective student eager to contribute to the wellness and care of the aging population. They’re rich in academic rigor, practical experience, and the compassion needed to drive change in a rapidly growing sector. By investing in your education now, you’re opening doors to a future where your specialized skills and knowledge will be essential. The path to becoming an advocate for the elderly, a steward of their health and well-being, begins here, at the heart of Charlotte’s academic institutions.