Faculty and administrators of the Gerontology Interdisciplinary Program, the College of Nursing, and the University of Utah are proud to announce the inaugural accreditation of the interdisciplinary Master of Science in Gerontology (MS) program. The accreditation, granted by the Accreditation for Gerontology Education Council (AGEC), affirms the program’s commitment to rigorous academic standards, a comprehensive interdisciplinary curriculum, and a forward-thinking approach to aging studies. The MS in Gerontology program at the College is now one of six accredited gerontology programs worldwide.
“This accreditation validates years of our faculty and staff’s dedicated work to develop a graduate program that empowers future leaders in the field of aging through knowledge, evidence, and competencies, enabling them to spearhead innovation and excellence in their careers," said Dean of the College of Nursing, Marla De Jong, PhD, RN, CCNS, FAAN. “As the population ages, the need for interdisciplinary professionals with specialized education in the field of aging will only grow, with the critical need to improve the health span and quality of life for individuals, families, and communities across the life course.”
The MS in Gerontology prepares graduates to address the complexities of aging through a multi-dimensional curriculum. The MS in Gerontology, as with all courses and degrees in gerontology at the University of Utah, is open to all students from all academic disciplines and professions. Students develop a deep understanding and become highly skilled in the areas of social, psychological, and biological dimensions of aging; the major theories and research approaches, including geroscience; and the interplay between hereditary, behavioral, environmental, and health care factors across the life course. Gerontology encourages viewing aging across the lifespan, as a dynamic process that presents opportunities for growth through life transitions.
Katarina Friberg-Felsted PhD, MS, FAGHE, FGSA, Assistant Dean of the Gerontology Interdisciplinary Program said, “We extend our gratitude to the AGEC Board of Governors of the and the Review Team site visitors for their dedication and time in assessing our program. Receiving unanimous accreditation without conditions affirms the program’s strengths, including exceptional faculty, outstanding graduates, excellent students, and dedicated administrative support; strong collaboration across the University and community; and robust resources that advance faculty and student research.”
The College of Nursing remains committed to growing the Gerontology Interdisciplinary Program through expanded community partnerships, enhanced research opportunities, and targeted enrollment efforts. With the support of University and community collaborators, the program is well positioned to prepare future leaders to meet the evolving needs of an aging society with innovation, expertise, and compassion. In addition to the MS in Gerontology, the Gerontology Interdisciplinary Program offers a minor in gerontology, graduate and undergraduate gerontology certificates, and a dual gerontology-physician assistant master’s degree.
Applications for the Master of Science in Gerontology open on August 1 for the upcoming academic year. To learn more about the program and how it prepares graduates to advance the science and practice of aging, visit nursing.utah.edu/programs/gerontology.