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Symposium

Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education

Fortifying the Future of Gerontology and Geriatrics in Higher Ed: Part I—Hard Questions

Thursday, November 14, 2024
4:30 PM – 6:00 PM PST
Location: Room 3B
CE: 1.5

Academic programs in gerontology and geriatrics are again facing an uncertain future. Despite the much touted increase in older adults in the US and subsequent demand for an age-savvy workforce, many gerontology and geriatrics programs are struggling to attract enrollments sufficient to survive, much less thrive. At the same time, unprecedented budget woes and declining public support throughout higher education are driving deep cuts across academic programs and disciplines. Yet, for students whose passion is to work in the field of aging as a clinician, researcher, or provider, having programming available is a necessity. This symposium examines the current state of educational programs in gerontology and geriatrics and raises essential questions to consider in order to fortify their future. First, Mark Staley and Julie Masters address the question “What is happening to gerontology programs?” and present an updated census of gerontology programs in the US, highlighting the financial health of academic institutions where programs have closed, paused, or folded into other disciplines. Second, Rona Karasik identifies research and practice trends in Gerontology & Geriatrics Education journal submissions that seek to answer the question “Why don’t students choose to go into gerontology or geriatrics?” Third, Isaac Boateng, Mark Staley, and Jessica VanderWerf share current gerontology students’ perspectives regarding “Why DO students choose gerontology?” Fourth, Julie Masters poses challenging questions that must be considered when devising strategies for a strong and sustainable future for gerontology education. Finally, discussant Marilyn Gugliucci will facilitate a conversation on the state of gerontology and geriatrics education.

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify current trends in gerontology and geriatrics education programs
  • Consider why students do or do not choose to study/work in gerontology or geriatrics
  • Discuss key challenges academic programs in gerontology and geriatrics face and consider possible solutions

Presentations:

  • 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM PST
    Gerontology and Geriatrics Programs: Observations From the US Database at the University of Nebraska

    Individual Symposium Abstract First Author: Mark Staley (he/him/his) – University of Nebraska Lincoln

  • 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM PST
    A New Look at an Old Problem: An Editor's Perspective on Barriers to Growing an Age-Savvy Workforce

    Individual Symposium Abstract First Author: Rona J. Karasik, PhD, FAGHE, FGSA (she/her/hers) – Saint Cloud State University

  • 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM PST
    Despite Our Best Efforts, They Aren't Buying What We're Selling: Raising Hard Questions About Our Future.

    Individual Symposium Abstract First Author: Julie L. Masters, PhD – University of Nebraska

  • 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM PST
    Flipping the Script: Why DO Students Choose Gerontology and Geriatrics?

    Individual Symposium Abstract First Author: Isaac Asirifi Boateng (he/him/his) – Saint Cloud State University