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Gerontology (0231)

Allied Health
Allied Health

Gerontology - Diploma (0231)

ATTENTION: At this time, the College is not accepting new student enrollments into the Gerontology diploma. The courses are not currently being offered while these programs are under review by the academic department. All questions should be directed to Dr. Megan Brightbill, Executive Dean for the School of Health Sciences.

Do you feel strongly about working with older adults and have an interest in learning more about their specific needs and resources? Can you envision yourself making a difference in the life of an older person? Or, do you currently work with older adults and wish to further your career in aging field? If so, then our diploma may help you meet your educational and career goals.

Our diploma helps you to expand you knowledge and employment opportunities within the gerontology field. Graduates are to find entry-level jobs in settings such as:

  • nursing homes
  • personal care/assisted living communities
  • home health care
  • senior centers and hospice care

We also offer the opportunity for you to continue your education and earn a certificate  or associate degree in gerontology. Or, pursue further study in related areas, such as:

  • Allied health
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Nursing
  • Social work

Explore YOUR career with Career Coach! Career Coach is a helpful tool that will assist you in developing a path from your education to the job market. With Career Coach, you can find:

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  • Number of individuals currently employed within that occupation
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From our leading professors, you will explore the skills needed for caring for our aging population. As part of this diploma, you will complete 20 hours of volunteering and gain knowledge in the areas of:

  • Allied health
  • Gerontology
  • Mental health
  • Social service

By completing our diploma, you will:

  • Demonstrate effective written and oral communication skills
  • Utilize current technologies, tools and applications
  • Discuss the basic demographics of aging
  • Apply basic principles of gerontology to social and health issues
  • Recognize differences between normal aging and disease-related aging
  • Summarize the physical, mental, social and psychological aspects of aging
  • Articulate skills and perspectives necessary to develop an empathetic relationship with an older person
  • Identify the need for teamwork to provide optimal care for the aging population
  • View summaries of every course at HACC by browsing our class schedules database.
  • Review our program guide (pdf) to view a list of required courses, recommended course sequencing and program competencies.

This diploma is designed to lead directly to the workforce. However, you may apply your completed coursework towards a bachelor's degree at a four-year institution. Below are some transfer opportunities:

Saint Francis University - Francis Worldwide:

Gerontology (A.A.S.) (pdf)

Saint Francis University - Francis Worldwide: Gerontology (A.A.S.) (pdf)

Our diploma is currently on hold.

Yes! Through the HACC Foundation, there are approximately 200 scholarships available. Please visit hacc.edu/scholarships for details and deadlines.

You can enroll anytime for classes in the spring, summer and fall. Visit our website and submit your application using the specific program code 0231. This code ensures you apply for the correct program.

Future students, we are excited to connect with you and answer your questions. Please choose the option that works best for you to meet with us.

Current HACC students, please contact our Advising Department with any questions.