In the next decade, it’s expected that older adults will represent a quarter of the Canadian population, according to Statistics Canada. This demographic shift will present unprecedented opportunities for those serving our aging population. It also means that most professionals will work with older people. Equip yourself with the skills to meet the unique needs of this growing demographic through the application of gerontology theory, practice, and policy change.
Learn directly from professionals with extensive community experience in gerontology across a vast array of fields, including social work, health sciences, nursing, and more. Expand your hands-on experience, apply your professional knowledge, and make a difference in your field and community.
Industry and Careers
This certificate can lead to career paths in roles such as:
- Family counsellor
- Legal advocate
- Occupational therapist
- Psychogeriatric case manager
- Recreation specialist
- Research and community engagement coordinator
- Residential support worker
- Social worker
- Ultrasound technician
- Wellness consultant
Who Should Take This Certificate?
- Recent graduates of health, social work, counseling, sociology, and psychology who are looking to start a career working with older adults
- Individuals working as educational or public administrators, retirement housing managers, recreational/health consultants, and human resource coordinators who need to build their skill set so they can design programs and develop policies for older adults
What Will You Learn?
After completing this certificate, you will able to:
- Examine the implications of aging and evaluate the services available for aging populations in Canada and globally from the following a variety of perspectives, including social, political, psychological, demographic, and more
- Influence practice and policy change in the field of aging
- Identify how technological innovation influences health and social engagement within aging populations
- Practice well-honed leadership, conflict management, and customer service skills
Certificate Requirements
- 4 required courses
- 2 electives
- Cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 1.67+
Admission Criteria
Recommended:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent
- With 6 Grade 12 U or M credits
OR
- Mature student status
Awards and Financial Aid
Frequently Asked Questions
What is gerontology?
Gerontology, the scientific study of aging, is a field of inquiry that draws from many disciplines including biology, psychology, sociology, political science, history, health policy, ethics, anthropology, and economics.
Is there an admissions interview?
No. There is no formal admission interview. You should contact the academic coordinator if you are concerned that you do not meet the admission criteria.
How much time will I have to spend each week on course work?
It’s usual to spend between four and six hours per week for each course.
Even though I live in the Toronto area, can I still take online courses?
Yes. Students from Toronto, all across Canada, and from around the world enrol in our flexible, high-quality online courses. You might consider taking a combination of online and on-campus courses.
Can I complete the entire Certificate in Aging and Gerontology online?
Yes. All of the courses you need to complete the program are available online. Our online courses will help you to fit your studies into your personal and work commitments while still giving you access to a high-quality education. In addition, by enrolling in an online course, you’ll join a dynamic, interactive community of like-minded learners.
What are the certificate program fees?
The certificate program fees are calculated on a per-course basis. To find the cost of each course, visit individual course description pages.
Fees for international students are approximately three (3) times higher than the listed fees.
How long do I have to complete the Certificate?
The number of years normally given to complete graduation requirements. Students must successfully complete the published certificate curricula that was in effect at the time they registered in the program.
The timespan will vary depending on the number of courses that must be completed to satisfy the graduation requirements of the certificate; refer to the chart below:
The timespan will vary depending on the number of courses that must be completed to satisfy the graduation requirements of the certificate; refer to the chart below:
|
Number of Courses Required |
Time to Completion |
|---|---|
|
4 |
3 years |
|
5 |
4 years |
|
6 |
4 years |
|
7 |
5 years |
|
8 |
5 years |
|
9 |
6 years |
|
10 |
6 years |
Will the Certificate in Aging and Gerontology qualify me to work in a long-term care facility?
No. This program will not be able to provide you with the training to directly care for seniors. However, combined with other educational credentials, it has been used to help individuals transition into a long-term care setting.
What’s the relationship between students and instructors in gerontology courses?
A combination of lectures, discussion, and group work creates opportunities for shared leadership that promote mutual learning. Whether on campus or online, our students and instructors come together in a true learning partnership. This partnership is modelled on the kinds of healthy relationships that exist between volunteers, board members, staff, and clients in community-based programs.