General InformationThe Master of Arts in Family Studies and Gerontology is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced studies in the field. The program prepares and/or enhances students’ careers in aging, community or family services, family life education, and community development.
In addition to knowledge on (a) family dynamics/development or (b) individual and population aging, our programs focus on the following six core competencies, which balance theoretical and practical knowledge:
- Understanding and application of the critical-ecological framework.
- Understanding of the continuum of prevention (health promotion, primary prevention, secondary prevention, tertiary prevention, mediation) and the position of professionals in Family Studies and Gerontology within it.
- Skills to identify appropriate resources and navigate the health and social services systems that support individuals and families as they meet their needs across the life span.
- Knowledge of policy content areas in family and aging and analytical skills to understand their creation and outcome.
- Knowledge and skills in program development, implementation, and evaluation across the lifespan.
- Development of professional attitudes and dispositions that recognize and acknowledge a diversity of values, beliefs, experiences, and choices.
Graduate study in Family Studies and Gerontology focuses on issues that impact societal concerns such as population aging, public policy, as well as on individual family members and families. A mixed method approach to research is used in the department; that is, both quantitative and qualitative research is conducted, and students work with their advisors to choose the most appropriate methodology to answer their research questions in their thesis.
Students focus their study and research activities in Family Studies or Gerontology. Both Family Studies and Gerontology have evolved as interdisciplinary fields of practice and research. Family Studies encompasses the study of individuals and families across the life-course through program and policy development. Gerontology focuses on issues related to aging and the challenges encountered by older persons in contemporary society. Click here to view a list of thesis topics.
Our students have been very successful in obtaining awards and funding for their research. Click here to view graduate scholarship information and deadlines.