Masters Programs in Gerontology

Dr. Nusha Askari, Chair of the Department and Program Director
(650) 508-3557, askari@ndnu.edu

The Department of Clinical Psychology and Gerontology offers programs leading to the Master of Arts in Clinical Gerontology and the Master of Arts in Gerontology/Administration.  The Gerontology programs are based on the scholar-practitioner model and provide graduate level education, clinical training, research, and personal growth in the field of gerontology.  The programs emphasize both theoretical and experiential learning, acquaint students with the research on aging, and prepare them to meet the challenges created by a rapidly changing demographic society.  The four or five undergraduate prerequisite courses may be obtained at Notre Dame de Namur University or transferrd from other accredited institutions.

The Master of Arts in Clinical Gerontology, which consists of 37 units of graduate coursework (effective Fall 2007, 38 units of graduate coursework will be required), while the Master of Arts in Gerontology/Administration consists of 38 units of graduate coursework. Both require a master's thesis. Gerontology courses provide state-of-the-art knowledge in the aging process, health and mental health issues, the aging network, and social policies. Clinical and administrative internships provide students with individualized, in-depth, and specialized training in the field. Examples of internship opportunities may include: area agencies on aging, nonprofit organizations, startup entrepreneurial ventures, healthcare and residential facilities, community senior centers, research affiliations at Stanford, and centers on aging.

Graduates will be qualified to assume professional clinical and leadership positions in the delivery of services to older adults and their families.

An Evaluation Committee associated with the Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology and the Master of Arts in Gerontology/Administration programs provides ongoing professional and academic evaluation of students in order to assure clinical competency and appropriateness for the field. Personal psychotherapy is strongly encouraged during the program.