A bachelor's degree in gerontology: The door to a rewarding, lucrative career

Gerontology is the study of aging, and the physical, sociological and physical changes that accompany the aging process. As the baby boomer generation ages, the changes to our society impact us all. Students who get a bachelor's degree in gerontology can use that degree in many different careers that deal with the elderly.

Gerontology Careers

Careers that involve the specialization of gerontology include nursing, social work, nursing home management, and home health care. While the wages and employment outlook for these jobs can vary greatly, the study of gerontology overall should result in a good chance for employment. Below is a list of just a few of the jobs to which a bachelor's degree in gerontology could lead, along with the median annual wage in May 2009:

• Social workers: $50,740
• Medical scientists: $74,590
• Registered nurses: $66,530

The Bureau of Labor Statistics also reports that the employment outlook for each of these careers is expected to be better than average during the 2008-2018 time period. Most careers in the health care industry have the same outlook.

Getting a Degree in Gerontology

If you enjoy working with the elderly, consider getting an online bachelor's degree in gerontology to help you further your career. There are two types of gerontology degrees: a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Bachelor of Science degree. Which one you earn depends on the school you choose and the branch of gerontology you want to pursue. There are a number of schools that offer online gerontology degrees. Online schools offer the distinct advantage of control over when and how you study.

Coursework. Coursework for a gerontology degree will depend on your field of study, but could include instruction in the science of aging, research skills, care taking, and general health care courses. If you choose to work in the social work aspect of gerontology, courses in psychology might also be part of your studies.

Credentials. After you achieve your degree, you will need to determine what the certification and licensing process is for your state, as there is no national certification program. Some employers may require or recommend credentialing by the National Association for Professional Gerontologists. To help promote your career, join a professional organization such as The Gerontological Society of America. Membership in professional organizations indicates a desire to get ahead in your career by staying on top of industry news, continuing education, and networking opportunities.

Financial Aid. Financial aid can help you fund the bachelor's degree in gerontology program. The Association for Gerontology in Higher Education offers a list of national scholarships and fellowships that students can apply for to help with their financial needs and career advancement goals.

Getting an online bachelor's degree in gerontology can put you in the driver's seat for a wide choice of very lucrative careers. Depending on where you live and what your specialty is, your job prospects will be promising. In addition, you'll have the satisfaction of working with our aging population and giving care, comfort, and assistance to those who need you.

• Degrees by Level