Diploma In Social Gerontology

Course details

The Diploma in Social Gerontology covers a broad range of economic, social and political theories relating to ageing and examines public policy for older people across a number of fields. It is designed to equip students with the professional and analytical skills necessary to understand age and ageing in an economic, social and policy context and to enhance and develop their careers in age-related fields.

Who is this course intended for?

This course is open to all those with an interest in the study of ageing including; health and social care professionals; those who work with older people in governmental, non-governmental or voluntary organisations; members of active retirement groups or other older people’s groups; older volunteers; those who wish to study issues related to older people for their own interest and enjoyment.

Key Facts

Entry Requirements

There are no specific entry requirements for the Diploma in Social Gerontology. Candidates who are 21 years or over on or before January 1st of year of entry may gain entry to the programme on the basis of mature years. Candidates under 21 years should meet the minimum matriculation requirements as outlined in the Frequently Asked Questions section.

Course Outline

The Diploma is a two-year, stand-alone, part-time programme for mature students. It covers a broad range of economic, social and political theories relating to ageing and examines public policy for older people across a number of fields.

In Year 1 of the programme, there are three modules:

• Introduction to Social Gerontology
• Economics of Ageing
• Social Perspectives on Ageing

In Year 2 of the programme, there are three modules:

• Rural Gerontology
• Public Policy for Dependant Older People
• Research Skills and Research Paper

Learning takes place by means of a blend of formal teaching, guest speakers, a field trip, discussion and students sharing their own knowledge and experience.

Requirements And Assessment

Students attend class for six hours every second Saturday during semesters 1 and 2 of each academic year. All modules are assessed individually. For four of the modules there is an end of semester written examination and a continuous assessment assignment; for the remaining two, there is continuous assessment and a research project.