Students in this certificate program receive basic preparation in their selected discipline or major, while concurrently obtaining specialized training in gerontology through the certificate program. Coursework completed at either institution may be applied to the Certificate Program. The two universities are located within a short 15-minute drive from each other.
To be eligible for the Graduate Gerontology Certificate Program a student must be matriculated in a graduate degree program or hold a graduate degree from an accredited institution. Students may be admitted with non degree status, but they must complete a graduate degree program prior to being awarded the Certificate.
The certificate program is flexible with minimal required courses beyond those needed to complete degree requirements. Students can tailor the courses taken toward completion of the certificate to meet their unique professional interests. A thesis or dissertation may be applied toward certificate requirements if it involves an aging-related topic. At least 12 of the required hours are to carry 600-level (University of Akron), 60000-level (Kent State University) or above designation. A maximum of three credit hours is transferable from outside the university. Certificate completion is acknowledged by special notation on student transcripts.