Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
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The Leonard Davis School of Gerontology at the University of Southern California, a leader in the field of gerontology, has pioneered educational programs including the world's first Ph.D. in Gerontology, the first joint Master's degree in Gerontology and Business Administration, and the first undergraduate Health Science Track in Gerontology.
Founded in 1975, the Leonard Davis School was the United States of America's first professional School of Gerontology.
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[edit] General Information
Gerontology is the study of aging in the context of the entire life span. The USC Davis School and its research and services component, the USC Ethel Percy Andrus Gerontology Center, are improving the quality of life for older persons through research and education.
As the oldest and largest school of gerontology in the world, the Davis School has a long tradition of forging new pathways in the field of aging. A multidisciplinary institution from its inception in 1975, the Davis School was built on the bedrock of excellence in aging research. Research in molecular biology, neuroscience, demography, psychology, sociology and public policy is conducted under the auspices of the Andrus Gerontology Center, founded in 1964.
[edit] Academic Programs
Our program studies the human life span by exploring the biological, psychological, sociological, political, medical and business dimensions of adult life. The curriculum is aimed at equipping future professionals in the field of aging with the specific skills and knowledge necessary to respond effectively to the needs of an aging population. With a distinguished faculty representing various disciplines, the School is able to offer students a wide range of scientific and professional gerontology courses. Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in Gerontology as well as a Graduate Level Certificate, can be obtained from the Davis School. The Davis School of Gerontology also makes its quality graduate program available over the internet specifically designed to meet the needs of busy professionals involved in the care of elderly.
The Bachelor of Science in Gerontology currently has two tracks: the Social Science Track, leading to careers in community and social service organizations, and the Health Science Track, which is preparation for professional programs such as Medicine, Pharmacy, and Dentistry. The Master of Science in Gerontology prepares graduates for a wide variety of roles in community agencies, the business world, and state, local and federal agencies. Dual Master’s Degrees are also available with Social Work, Public Administration, Business Administration, Jewish Communal Services, and Urban and Regional Planning.
[edit] Undergraduate Programs
[edit] Bachelor of Science in Gerontology
The Bachelor of Science in Gerontology prepares students for admission to a graduate or professional school with an emphasis on aging, such as medicine, law, dentistry, social work, occupational/physical therapy, public administration, urban planning, business or social gerontology. It also prepares students for entry level jobs in services for the aging in senior centers, corporations, nursing homes, nutrition programs, volunteer programs, area agencies on aging or other human services organizations.
Students planning to pursue a B.S. are urged to notify the school of this intent as early as possible during their undergraduate study. This will help ensure that the student receives proper advisement and that the student is alerted to any special requirements or program modifications.
During the freshman and sophomore years, students enroll primarily in general education required courses as specified by the university and the Gerontology gateway course (GERO 200).
During their junior and senior years, students enroll in required and elective courses in the School of Gerontology as well as other courses throughout the university. These courses are selected in consultation with an advisor and reflect the personal and professional interests of the students.
The honors program is available to students who maintain a GPA of 3.5 in gerontology and a GPA of 3.3 in other USC course work and are juniors. The honors program includes mentored training in research and course work relevant to research methodology and statistics.
A grade point average of at least C (2.0) on all units attempted at USC is required for undergraduate degrees. The School of Gerontology requires a minimum 2.0 grade point average in upper division major courses.
A health science track within the Bachelor of Science in Gerontology program has been designed for students who wish to pursue a career in medicine or other health related fields. Students will be able to meet medical school entrance requirements, while the program will also provide appropriate breadth and rigor of gerontology instruction and fulfill general education requirements. In addition, students will participate in a supervised practicum experience in which they will become directly involved with aging clients in a health care setting. Students interested in this program must make application to the department and be approved for admission to this specialized track. Upon acceptance, student progress will be closely monitored by a faculty advisor.
General Education Requirements
The university’s general education program provides a coherent, integrated introduction to the breadth of knowledge you will need to consider yourself (and to be considered by other people) a generally well-educated person. This new program requires six courses in different categories, plus writing and diversity requirements.
Foreign Language or Programming Skills (12 Units)
Students in the health science track must complete ITP 101x. All others must satisfy the skill level requirement in one language or complete ITP 101x and additional ITP 100-level programming courses to total 12 units.
Health Science Track
Requirements for Admission
The listed requirements for admission to the health science track in gerontology will not differ from existing requirements for admission to the Bachelor of Science in Gerontology. However, because health professional schools are very competitive, USC students interested in this program will be expected to have achieved at least a 3.0 grade point average (A = 4.0) and will be carefully reviewed by faculty before being admitted. Students entering the program from high schools or transferring from community colleges will also be expected to meet the minimum admission standards as well as undergo a faculty review. Current USC students will not be able to “declare” gerontology as their major and enroll in the health science track without specific admission by the gerontology faculty.
Social Sciences Track
The Social Science Track in Gerontology prepares students for entry level jobs in services for the aged such as senior centers, corporations, nursing homes, nutrition programs, volunteer programs, area agencies on aging, and a variety of human service organizations.
[edit] Bachelor of Science in Gerontology (Health Science Track)
Requirements for Admission
The listed requirements for admission to the health science track in gerontology will not differ from existing requirements for admission to the Bachelor of Science in Gerontology. However, because health professional schools are very competitive, USC students interested in this program will be expected to have achieved at least a 3.0 grade point average (A = 4.0) and will be carefully reviewed by faculty before being admitted. Students entering the program from high schools or transferring from community colleges will also be expected to meet the minimum admission standards as well as undergo a faculty review. Current USC students will not be able to “declare” gerontology as their major and enroll in the health science track without specific admission by the gerontology faculty.
Online Undergraduate Courses
All of our online courses are designed and taught by Davis School faculty members. Each week of the courses consist of a lecture written by a faculty member, interactive exercises to further enhance the student’s understanding of the subject matter, and assignments that will be sent via email to the instructor to monitor progress and integration of the subject matter.
Coursework can be accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Sunday afternoons might be the best time for you, or maybe you work better at night. You may choose to read a lecture all at once or spread it over a couple of days. In the traditional classroom setting, students spend three hours per week in class and four to six additional hours completing outside assignments and readings. Students should expect to spend a similar amount of time for an online class. However, as an online student, you choose those hours.
[edit] Minors in Aging
The undergraduate minor program gives students the option of combining their major with an emphasis in gerontology, the study of aging. The minors provide students with the opportunity to supplement their education with a life course perspective of aging process.
Individuals, Societies and Aging
This minor is a fit for students in business, engineering, communication, cinema-television, or arts and sciences interested in developing a broad knowledge of issues in aging. Based largely on disciplines in the behavioral and social sciences, students learn how aging will impact their lives, families and careers. Upon completion of 20 units and graduation, the minor is noted on the student's transcript.
Science, Health and Aging
The Science, health and Aging minor is appropriate for students working toward careers in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, biological sciences, public health or other health related fields. Admission to the minor is only available to students who have completed 4 units of prerequisites (BISC 220L, or BISC 221) as part of their major requirements. Upon completion of 20 units and graduation, the minor is noted on the student's transcript.
[edit] Graduate Programs
[edit] Master of Science in Gerontology
The Master of Science in Gerontology prepares graduates to assume professional leadership positions in the delivery of services to older people and their families, in the planning and evaluation of services, in administration of programs and in the instruction of older people and service providers.
All students take core courses in physiological, psychological, sociological and social policy aspects of aging, research methods and the capstone course.
In addition, a series of courses, selected from a list of skill requirements, is chosen to assist the student in developing specific professional practice skills. A field practicum assures that these skills can be applied in agencies and institutional settings.
The Master of Science in Gerontology requires 52 units of course work and field experience. This includes 32 units of required courses and 20 units of specialization courses. The course work includes instruction on the processes of aging and professional courses designed to develop the skills needed for practice. The field practicum includes two semesters of practical experience working in an organizational setting.
Continuous registration in the program is required. There is a five year completion time limit for the degree. Leaves of absence are available for limited times and are excluded from the total time limit. A maximum of two absences (one year each) is allowed.
Probation and Disqualification
Probation and Warning
Any graduate student whose cumulative or semester grade point average in the university falls below B (3.0) will be placed on academic probation. A graduate student whose semester average falls below B (3.0) but whose cumulative grade point average in the university is 3.0 (A = 4.0) or higher will be placed on academic warning.
Disqualification
A graduate student on academic probation will be disqualified if his or her cumulative record accumulates more than 12 units of C work. A graduate student, whether on probation or not, will be subject to disqualification if the Student Affairs Committee of the Davis School at any time determines deficiency in academic achievement.
Prerequisites for Admission
Students applying for admission to the Master of Science in Gerontology program must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. In selecting applicants for admission, the School of Gerontology considers both academic potential (as reflected in undergraduate study and scores on the Graduate Record Examinations) and professional potential (as reflected in experience, references and career goals). The school requests information from applicants to supplement that supplied by the USC Application for Graduate Admission. Such supplemental information usually includes a statement of interest in gerontology and letters of reference. Interviews may be required.
An approved statistics course is required of all students entering the program.
Common requirements for all programs include the 28 required units and GERO 555, totaling 32 units. In addition, each candidate must complete the 12 units of skills requirements and eight units of electives.
Field Practicum
The field practicum provides the opportunity for the student to gain valuable experience and develop needed skills by working in a community agency or institution. It involves 480 hours of community involvement, generally over two semesters.
Field placement assignments are made by the internship coordinator of the school in consultation with the student and in accordance with the resources available in the community. Every effort is made to secure placement which will reflect the student’s capacity to assume the responsibilities of a professional in gerontology. Evaluations of the student’s performance are sent to the school by the community agency; the student receives a grade of credit/no credit in GERO 591z Field Practicum.
Online Degree Programs
There is a large and growing demand for education in gerontology. In 1997, Dr. David Peterson and his colleagues reported that the majority of professionals who work with older adults have not participated in formal gerontological education. Many professionals and staff members of agencies and organizations that serve the elderly received their education in disciplines such as Social Work, Public and Health Administration, Business, and Medicine that provide preparation for certain job roles within healthcare and social service agencies, but which do not provide preparation for accommodating the special needs and issues of older clients. While most current professionals have not had formal education in aging, many realize the utility and seek degree granting programs and continuing education to enhance their careers, better serve their older adult clients, and to better understand their own and their loved ones’ aging process. However, many professionals are not able to come to a campus for traditional education due to family and/or work constraints on their time. Other options for education are needed for working professionals.
The Davis School’s long history of leadership in gerontological education continues as we enter the 21st century as the first to offer a gerontology degree via the Internet. In September of 1997, an online component to one on-campus course at USC, Gerontology 200: the Science of Adult Development was introduced. We also received a grant from the American Association for Retired Persons to teach a graduate level introductory course in Gerontology. In the Spring semester of 1998, the course was taught to 27 staff members of AARP in Washington, D.C. and other AARP regional offices. The great success of the course and the students’ experiences and feedback prompted the faculty of the Leonard Davis School to initiate an Online Graduate Certificate in Gerontology to begin in the Fall of 1998.
The online master's program (M.A.) in gerontology provides an opportunity for professionals who are currently working in an organization serving older adults and who can not come to campus to acquire the skills and formal training in gerontology. The required courses are delivered through the internet.The online program requires 28 units of course work and the students are required to begin their course work of study by taking GERO 500.
The Online Graduate Certificate has the same requirements as the traditional certificate offered on the USC campus with just a few additions. Students will be required to take the introductory course, Fundamentals of Gerontology: the science of adult development. Next in the sequence will be the four core courses: Psychology, Sociology, Biology, and Policy of aging and development. Finally, students will take four units of elective courses.
In response to the current emerging demands for long term care services from people of all ages who need assistance with their activities of daily living, the University of Southern California has established a new online master's degree program in Long Term Care Administration. This program is a joint effort between the USC Marshall School of Business, the School of Policy, Planning, and Development, and the Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, a pioneer in offering the nation's first gerontology degree programs, as well as the first online Master's degree program in gerontology.
All of our online courses are designed and taught by Davis School faculty members. Each week of the courses consists of a lecture written by a faculty member, interactive exercises to further enhance the student’s understanding of the subject matter, and assignments that will be sent via email to the instructor to monitor progress and integration of the subject matter. Many courses also include a professor's video introduction for each week. Students are able to “attend” class at their own convenience. In the traditional classroom setting, students are expected to spend three hours a week in class and an additional four to six hours completing outside assignments and readings. A similar amount of time is expected for online courses, but students can access online courses 24 hours a day.
Studies have shown there to be more personal interaction between students and the instructor in online classes than in the traditional classroom. The difference is that communication takes the form of messages back and forth via email and through discussions held in chatrooms allowing all students to participate and interact with the professor and each other directly.
Online students will have access to the USC Library System, electronic databases and materials, and the special resource and research materials available through the Andrus Gerontology Library. Document delivery systems, agreements with other libraries from other universities, online course readings, and consultations with the gerontology Librarian to obtain research materials will further supplement the student’s learning experience.
The Andrus Gerontology Center has a team of gerontological and technical professionals exclusively devoted to developing online courses, assisting students with course content, and providing individualized attention and technical support.
In order to apply for the Online Graduate Certificate, students must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with at least a 3.0 Grade Point Average. International students must have taken the TOEFL exam with a minimum score of 600. Admission criteria for the online MSG are the same as for the traditional program.
The multimedia division of the Andrus Gerontology Center hopes to expand course and degree offerings in order to accommodate the needs of students at all levels of education and personal and professional experience.
[edit] Online Master of Long Term Care Administration
In response to the current emerging demands for long term care services from people of all ages who need assistance with their activities of daily living, the University of Southern California has established a new online master's degree program in Long Term Care Administration. With close to 8 million older Americans using long term care services, there is a growing need for trained professionals in the field. Using an interdisciplinary approach, the new degree program will provide professionals with graduate training in the social, psychological and physical aspects of aging, as well as with administration and management of businesses and organizations providing long term care services.
The web-based distance learning program for the Master of Long Term Care Administration is a joint effort between the USC Marshall School of Business, the School of Policy, Planning, and Development, and the Davis School of Gerontology, a pioneer in offering the nation's first gerontology degree programs, as well as the first online Master's degree program in gerontology.
Geared toward professionals and interested individuals in the field of long term care who wish to further their educational background and enhance their work experience, the degree requires the completion of seven 4-unit courses or a total of 28 credit hours, with the same admission criteria, academic quality, and faculty involvement as on-campus programs.
Probation and Disqualification
Probation and Warning
Any graduate student whose cumulative or semester grade point average in the university falls below B (3.0) will be placed on academic probation. A graduate student whose semester average falls below B (3.0) but whose cumulative grade point average in the university is 3.0 (A = 4.0) or higher will be placed on academic warning.
Disqualification
A graduate student on academic probation will be disqualified if his or her cumulative record accumulates more than 12 units of C work. A graduate student, whether on probation or not, will be subject to disqualification if the Student Affairs Committee of the Davis School at any time determines deficiency in academic achievement.
Prerequisites for Admission
Students applying for admission to the Online Master of Long Term Care Administration program must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. In selecting applicants for admission, the School of Gerontology considers both academic potential (as reflected in undergraduate study and scores on the Graduate Record Examinations) and professional potential (as reflected in experience, references and career goals). The school requests information from applicants to supplement that supplied by the USC Application for Graduate Admission. Such supplemental information usually includes a statement of interest in gerontology and letters of reference. Interviews may be required.
An approved statistics course is required of all students entering the program.
[edit] Dual Degree Program
The Davis School of Gerontology cooperates with six other professional schools at USC and Hebrew Union College in offering programs in which the student receives two master’s degrees. These degrees provide the student with the knowledge and skills of gerontology as well as those of the other professional field. The dual degrees require more course work than the M.S. alone, but offer the graduate greater breadth of education and employment options.
Current Dual Master Degree Programs
- Master of Science in Gerontology and the Master of Business Administration (M.S./M.B.A.) with the Marshall School of Business
- Master of Science in Gerontology and the Doctor of Dental Surgery (M.S./D.D.S.) with the School of Dentistry
- Master of Science in Gerontology and the Juris Doctor (M.S./J.D.) with the Law School
- Master of Science in Gerontology and the Master of Public Administration (M.S./M.P.A.)
- Master of Science in Gerontology and the Master of Health Administration (M.S./M.H.A.)
- Master of Science in Gerontology and the Master of Planning (M.S./M.Pl.) with the School of Policy, Planning, and Development
- Master of Science in Gerontology and the Master of Social Work (M.S./M.S.W.) with the School of Social Work
- Master of Science in Gerontology and the Doctor of Pharmacy (M.S./Pharm.D.) with the School of Pharmacy.
- The School of Gerontology in cooperation with Hebrew Union College offers the Master of Science in Gerontology and the Master of Arts in Jewish Communal Service (M.S./M.A.).Students must apply to both schools simultaneously and, if accepted to both, participate in specially designed programs combining the courses of each school.
Admission to Dual Degree Programs
Applicants to any of the dual degree programs must submit two application forms to the Office of Admissions; one indicating gerontology as the major and one indicating the other degree as the major. Each of the schools must accept the student for admission. Acceptance into one school’s degree program does not imply acceptance into the dual degree program.
[edit] Graduate Level Certificate Program
The residential graduate certificate in gerontology program provides an opportunity for those who have completed a bachelor’s degree in another profession or discipline and are employed in the field of aging to acquire a greater understanding of gerontology theory and research. The program consists of 16 units of gerontology content designed to familiarize the student with several areas of the field which relate to professional practice.
In addition to three of the four required core course areas for the certificate program (GERO 510, GERO 520 or GERO 522, GERO 530 or GERO 585, GERO 540), each student will have the option to choose one elective course which meets his or her particular area of interest.
Certificate students do not take a field practicum. Students admitted to the non-degree certificate program are expected to enroll each semester until the program is completed.
Online Graduate Level Certificate in Gerontology
The online graduate certificate in gerontology program provides an opportunity for those with a bachelor’s degree in another profession or discipline who are employed in the field of aging to acquire a greater understanding of gerontology theory and research. The program is designed to serve individuals who are unable to come to regularly scheduled classes or to the campus by delivering courses over the Internet. The program consists of 16 units of gerontology courses designed to familiarize the student with several areas of the field which relate to professional practice.
Students complete the introductory Internet-based course, GERO 500, two of the four required core course areas (GERO 510 or GERO 513, GERO 520 or GERO 522, GERO 530 or GERO 585, and GERO 540), and one elective course in a particular area of interest.
The required courses are delivered via the Internet. The courses are offered in sequential order and are restricted by availability. Continuous registration in the non-degree program is required. Leaves of absence are available for limited times and are excluded from the total time limit. Entering students are required to begin their course of study by taking GERO 500.
In order to participate in the online courses, students will be required to have access to a multimedia computer with modem, printer and CD-ROM drive; an Internet provider with email and an internet browser; and word processing software. The department will provide specific details regarding the computer requirements.
Pharm. D - Certificate in Gerontology
This integrated program in pharmacy and gerontology prepares students with an interest in geriatric pharmacy to assume leadership roles at academic, administrative or policy levels within the profession.
The program involves the completion of 16 units of core courses in physiology, psychology, sociology and social policy aspects of aging offered by the School of Gerontology. In addition, students are required to complete 8 units of approved elective courses in gerontology or geriatric pharmacy to be credited toward the requirements for the Pharm.D. and the Graduate Certificate in Gerontology.
It is expected that the program can be successfully completed by candidates taking electives in geriatric pharmacy or gerontology during the regular semester and completing one core course in gerontology during each summer in the four year Pharm.D. program.
Advancement Placement Master of Science in Gerontology
This program is designed for students who are academically qualified to enter a graduate program and who show potential for professional work in the field. Students must meet the same criteria as all other applicants to the MSG program.
Students interested in the program should apply at the end of their Junior Year or beginning of the Senior Year. The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) should have been taken prior to making application.
Submit a regular graduate application packet to the School (forms are available in the School Office) which consists of University Application, Transcripts, GRE score on Aptitude portion, 3 letters of reference, Information form, and Statement of Interest and Goals. Applications are to be submitted in February for Fall consideration and in October for Spring consideration. Students must meet graduate level criteria.
[edit] Doctorate
The Graduate School of the University of Southern California awards the Ph.D. degree through the Davis School of Gerontology, Ethel Percy Andrus Gerontology Center. The purpose of the Ph.D. in Gerontology is to provide high-level multidisciplinary education in individual and population aging and to develop leadership in the field of gerontology. The program is designed to enhance the potential of students to contribute to the field through teaching, research, and policy planning and administration. Applicants are welcome at either the post-master’s or post-baccalaureate stage level although many applicants hold a master’s degree in their fields. The Ph.D. in Gerontology provides: (1) high level rigorous training in basic and applied research, (2) the acquisition and application of scientific gerontological and public policy knowledge and (3) the development of leadership skills in the field of gerontology. Upon completion of the program, graduates are expected to assume prominent roles in teaching, research, or policy planning and administration, making significant scholarly and professional contributions to the field of gerontology. This is a dynamic program that cultivates experts in gerontology. Although the program is well-structured and facilitates the student’s experience, student success is largely dependent on the student’s initiative. Students must be active participants in their education, seeking guidance and opportunities. The select number of students accepted into the program allows an excellent opportunity to receive personal attention from faculty as well as benefit from collaboration with student-colleagues.
[edit] Internships
The internship program is designed to help individuals "bridge the gap" between student and professional roles. It provides an opportunity to apply theories and concepts to actual work with or on behalf of the elderly. The program consists of two components: field-work experience and a practicum discussion class.
Field-work experience is available in a variety of settings. Placements are made by the internship staff, in collaboration with the students and the internship sites. Internships may focus on aspects of one or more of the following: social services, health services, policy, business, advocacy or administration. All field-work experience is supervised by qualified agency employees who serve as preceptors, giving hands-on direction, guidance and feed-back, as well as practical instruction. Because the School strives to provide quality learning experiences, internship settings and preceptors must be pre-approved by the internship staff, and all field-work experience is monitored through written evaluations and site visits.
Practicum discussion classes meet regularly and provide interns with a forum to discuss, debate, and resolve work-place issues using consultation, communication and case conferences methods. In addition, presentations by practicing professionals offer up-to-date perspectives on practical issues in the field of gerontology.
[edit] Undergratuate Internships
Undergraduate students complete their primary internships in their senior year. Students must have completed 16 units of gerontology courses prior to starting their internships, and are placed in the fall or spring semesters.
All undergraduates must complete a minimum of four units of internship credit, which requires 130 hours of field-work experience and participation in the practicum discussion class. Up to 4 additional units of elective credit may be taken as an internship.
All undergraduate internships will include some direct contact with elderly people. Undergraduate students are not paid for their internships.
"I enjoyed my internship experience at USC. As an intern at the LA County–USC Hospital Trauma Unit, I worked side by side with various health care professionals who shared their expertise with me. I believe that the connections that I made during my internship will be a great asset to my future career." Yassaman Sobhani B.S. (Health Science) Class of 1998
[edit] Graduate Internships
Graduate students may begin their internships after completing 16 units of graduate credit. A minimum of 8 units of internship credit is required, which includes 480 hours of field-work experience and participation in the practicum discussion class. Students may elect to take up to four additional units of internship credit, which requires 240 extra field-work hours.
Graduate placements are very flexible, depending on each intern’s past experience and areas of interest. In some cases, graduate students have paid internships, or move into paid positions during their placements.
[edit] Distance Education
The Davis School’s long history of leadership in gerontological education continues as we enter the 21st century as the first to offer a gerontology degree via the Internet.
All of our online courses are designed and taught by Davis School faculty members. Each week of the courses consist of a lecture written by a faculty member, interactive exercises to further enhance the student’s understanding of the subject matter, and assignments that will be sent via email to the instructor to monitor progress and integration of the subject matter.
Coursework can be accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Sunday afternoons might be the best time for you, or maybe you work better at night. You may choose to read a lecture all at once or spread it over a couple of days. In the traditional classroom setting, students spend three hours per week in class and four to six additional hours completing outside assignments and readings. Students should expect to spend a similar amount of time for an online class. However, as an online student, you choose those hours.
[edit] External Link
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