Interdisciplinary
Aging and Health Minor
Study aging from a biological, psychological, and social perspective. Understand how an aging population impacts all aspects of society.
Program details
- Modality
- On-campus
- Total Credits
- 18
Why minor in aging and health at UMass Dartmouth?
People all over the world are living longer due to advances in health and science. The growing population of aging people will have a big impact on many aspects of society—and the aging and health minor can help students prepare for those changes.
The aging and health minor is designed for students who want to specialize in the gerontological aspects of their discipline or understand the aging process more fully. Students learn the importance of supporting an aging population and ways to promote health and justice for older adults.
Launch your career
What can I do with a minor in aging and health?
With a minor in aging and health, you can work in fields such as:
- Healthcare
- Community support
- Public policy
- Administration
- Law
- Psychology
- Bioengineering
- Physical therapy
- Finance
Curriculum
During the aging and health minor, you will learn the skills to:
- Promote health in adulthood
- Maintain cognitive health
- Manage chronic health and disability
- Investigate how our society ages
- Understand aging throughout the lifespan
You will take courses like Aging and Disability, Human Nutrition, Philosophy of Happiness, Public Policy, Cognitive Health, Population, Urban Issues, Human Genetics, and more.
Real-world experience
Aging and health students have the opportunity to work with the Ora M. DeJesus Gerontology Center, which is dedicated to promoting healthy aging through multi-disciplinary research and outreach. The Center’s research and programs enhance current knowledge of the aging process and promote healthy, active living. The Center builds bridges between the university and community through research, education, outreach, and partnerships.
Course descriptions and requirements
Explore the official academic catalog for detailed curriculum requirements, course descriptions and program information.
Accolades
UMass Dartmouth is a nationally ranked R2 research university that combines the resources of a major university with a personalized educational experience. Ranked among the top 15 public research institutions with fewer than 10,000 students and in the top 17% nationally for return on investment, UMass Dartmouth is recognized for advancing research, social mobility, and career-ready education.
Nationally ranked discovery across arts and sciences
The College of Arts and Sciences brings together nationally ranked programs, accomplished scholars, and research with measurable impact. Its faculty includes eight Fulbright Scholars and has secured more than $14 million in grants over three years, creating opportunities for students to learn through research, creative inquiry, and community engagement.
Frequently asked questions
Have questions about the Aging and Health Minor program? Here you will find answers to common questions about admissions, curriculum, career outcomes, and student experience.
This minor is available to any major across all colleges, but students often pair it with biology, nursing, sociology, medical laboratory science, and psychology majors.
Aging and Health is available as a minor. Contact your academic advisor for more information.