Gerontology Courses
HUS 101 Introduction to Human Services
3 credits/3 contact hours
This course explores multiple aspects of human services including the history, models of service delivery, diverse populations, helping skills, and ethical considerations. There is an emphasis on career options within the fields of behavioral health and gerontology. Students will have the opportunity to explore areas of vocational interest.
PSY 212 – Psychology of Aging
3 credits/3 contact hours
This course will provide an overview of the major theories, issues and research in the scientific study of aging. The interplay of biological and cognitive factors, interpersonal relationships, social structure, and cultural values in shaping the individual’s development in older adulthood will be examined.
Prerequisite: PSY 101
PSY 280 - Positive Psychology
3 credits/3 contact hours
The course is an introduction to the theories, concepts and practice of positive psychology. Positive psychology is the scientific study of psychological strengths and optimal functioning, including (1) positive subjective states such as happiness, satisfaction, love and contentment; (2) positive individual traits such as courage, honesty, wisdom and resilience; and (3) positive institutions such as healthy families, work environments and communities.
Prerequisite: PSY 101
PSY 210 - Psychology Across the Lifespan
3 credits/3 contact hours
This course focuses on the theories, research methods, and the status of scientific knowledge about human development across the lifespan. Topics include the interplay of psychological and environmental factors in physical, cognitive, social and personality development from birth through adulthood.
Prerequisite: PSY 101
SOC 210 - Social Problems
3 credits/3 contact hours
This course will develop students’ skills of critical analysis through the application of sociological principles to current social issues. Examples of issues which may be examined are: stratification and inequality around the globe, poverty, health care, homelessness, aging, racial/ethnic conflict, gender roles and national and global conflict.
Prerequisite: SOC 101
SOC 212 – Sociology of Aging
3 credits/3 contact hours
This course will provide an overview of human aging in a broad socio-cultural context. Course topics will include demographics of aging, theories of social gerontology, cross-cultural perspectives on aging, and major issues of aging in society today.
Prerequisite: SOC 101
SOC 232 - Death and Dying
3 credits/3 contact hours
This course provides a basic background on historical and contemporary perspectives on death and
dying. Topics include attitudes toward death and preparation for death; the understanding of and
care for the terminally ill; funeral rites; burial, mourning and grief practices; grief counseling; suicide
and euthanasia. Attention will be given to American practices regarding death, as well as cross-cultural
interpretation.
Prerequisite: SOC 101 or PSY 101