Welcome to the Gerontology Minor
In this field, you study both the challenges and the strengths of older adulthood. You examine myths, confront stereotypes and learn how aging varies across culture, power, identity and opportunity.
Aging matters. Gerontology studies why.
Why Study Gerontology?
The Gerontology minor prepares you for careers that intersect with one of the fastest growing populations in the country: older adults. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the number of Americans age 65 and older is projected to jump from 17% of the population to nearly 23% by 2050.
Employers across a variety of industries need graduates who understand aging beyond stereotypes. This program gives you that edge. You’ll examine how longer life spans are reshaping families, workplaces, markets and institutions, and you’ll build skills that translate directly into professional settings.
The Gerontology minor strengthens your ability to serve, advocate, design and lead in a society where aging touches every field.
This minor is a strong fit if you:
- Question stereotypes about older adults
- Want to work in a field that will keep growing
- Care about social justice and marginalized voices
- Are curious about what your life will look like at 70, 90, or 110
If you want a minor that adds clear career value and positions you for long term relevance, start here.
Related Industries
Gerontology opens doors across industries. You can work directly with older adults or influence systems that affect them. Nearly every sector intersects with an aging population, from business and technology to government and health care and the need for informed advocates and professionals will not slow down.
The Gerontology minor pairs well with many fields. Students in these majors often see immediate value:
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Social Work
- Nursing and Health Science
- Criminal Justice
- Public Administration
- Business
- Liberal Studies and Education
If your field serves people, shapes policy, designs products or builds communities, aging is part of your work whether you plan for it or not.
Contact Information
| Name | Number | Office | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Olave, Barbara | bolave@csustan.edu | B-107C | |
| Jordan, Megan Professor | mjordan1@csustan.edu | 664-6831 | B-211B |
Updated: October 27, 2026