Benefits of a Degree in Gerontology
An increasing percentage of the population is becoming elderly. As the baby boomers age and life expectancies increase, the need for people with knowledge of gerontology continues to go up. You can have a great career in gerontology with as little as a certificate. You can also go on to earn an associates degree, a bachelors degree, a masters degree, or even a doctorate in gerontology. You'll have more career options available to you the further you go in your education. With a degree in gerontology you can work at a hospital, a nursing home, a nonprofit organization, or in social services. You can also go into research or teaching with a high enough degree in gerontology.
Career Options with a Degree in Gerontology
A number of different career paths are open to student's of gerontology. Again, depending upon the level of degree you earn, you can work as a social worker, a nurse, an occupational therapist, a nurse's aide, a health care manager, a social scientist, or a home health aide. Most careers within the field of gerontology involve close interpersonal interaction with elderly people. With a degree in gerontology you can find a rewarding career helping elderly people be healthy, enjoy their lives, and be safe. The variety of different careers within gerontology have a wide range of salaries. Depending upon the career path you choose, you could make anywhere from $30,000 per year to $80,000 per year working in the field of gerontology.
How to Earn a Degree in Gerontology
Degrees in gerontology can be earned from community colleges, universities, graduate schools, and through online programs. If you earn your degree in gerontology through an online program, you can take the time you need to complete your coursework and enjoy the benefit of taking classes from your own home. Such programs are a great option for students with jobs or families. Once you've completed your gerontology degree program, you'll be left with an accredited degree that will help you get a variety of jobs within the field of gerontology.