Program Mission: The online Master of Science in Aging Studies program is designed to provide an interdisciplinary education for future and current professionals in aging/gerontology. Students will acquire specialized expertise in older adulthood, processes of aging, and later life stages through the study of gerontological theory, research, professional practice, policy, and the process of aging and cultural diversity. Students will be prepared for a wide range of careers in the field of aging/gerontology, including positions in human social services, program administration, residential long term care, geriatric health care programs, government services, and professional organizations, community outreach and education, and entrepreneurship. Two options include: (1) the M.S. in Aging Studies or the (2) the M.S. in Aging Studies: Long Term Care Administration.

Note: The M.S. in Aging Studies prepares students for beginning or continuing careers focused on but not limited to: administration and leadership in national, state, and local government or nonprofit aging-specific programs; human and social services resources for aging; aging research and/or policy; and case management services for older adults.

Admission Requirements: To be eligible for degree candidacy, applicants must meet all of the requirements for admission to the Graduate School (see “Admission to Graduate Degree and Certificate Programs”).

Degree Audit: The graduate plan of study is the EIU Degree Audit, which is generated automatically at the time of degree or certificate candidacy. Modifications of the standard EIU Degree Audit are submitted by the graduate coordinator to the certification officer in the Graduate School at the time modifications are approved. The Degree Audit serves as an unofficial summary of requirements for the program. Degree and certificate candidates are advised to review the comprehensive summary of the Degree Audit process specified on the ” Requirements for All Degree and Certificate Candidates ” section of the Graduate Catalog. Individual programs may require candidates to submit plans of study in addition to the Degree Audit, candidates should consult with the program coordinator.