Online Master’s in Geropsychology Degree Programs
Geropsychology is a rapidly growing field with a growing demand for qualified geropsychologists. The American Psychological Association (APA) indicates that there is a "critical need" for geropsychologists, with an expected need for nearly 6,000 new geropsychologists by 2030. Students who earn a master's degree in geropsychology will be well-positioned to continue their studies to earn a doctorate degree in geropsychology or to start working in the field. The program provides students with the knowledge and skills to work with older adults and their families. Geropsychologists often find jobs at inpatient and outpatient clinics, government institutions, such as the VA, in academic positions, or at research centers.
To learn about online master’s degree programs in geropsychology, and more about how to start a career in geropsychology continue reading the sections below.
What Will I Learn in an Online Geropsychology Master's Degree Program?
Students who enroll in an online master's degree program in geropsychology gain the core knowledge and skills related to this subfield of psychology. They gain an understanding of the advanced theory and research that is related to helping older adults to maintain their quality of life during the aging process.
An online master’s degree in geropsychology programs educates students in the growing specialization of geropsychology through coursework and internships or fieldwork. The average program length for a master's degree program is around 36 credit hours of study.
There are many online options for geropsychology master’s degree programs such as the Master’s Degree of Arts in Liberal Studies in Geropsychology at Thomas Edison State University.
Students who want to have an advantage over their peers when applying for jobs may wish to earn a dual degree. The University of Southern California (USC) Dornsife offers a Dual Ph.D./M.P.H. program. The program offers comprehensive study in clinical geropsychology and provides students with research training in clinical psychology and the aging process.
Students who enroll in the dual degree program work towards earning both a Doctorate Degree of Philosophy in Psychology (Clinical) and a Master’s Degree in Public Health. They have the option to choose geropsychology as their major area of clinical study.
Common courses in the Master's in Geropsychology Degree program include:
- Adult Development and Aging
- Cognition and Learning
- Geropsychological Assessment
- Research Methodology
- Geropsychological Intervention
The master's in geropsychology programs also require that students complete a practicum, clinical hours, or research.
What To Look For in an Online Master's in Geropsychology
When exploring options for an online master’s degree program in geropsychology, there are several key factors to consider. Accreditation is of utmost importance to ensure that the program meets rigorous academic standards and is recognized by reputable accrediting bodies. Look for programs accredited by recognized organizations in the field of psychology, such as the American Psychological Association (APA) or other relevant regional accrediting bodies.
The curriculum of the program should be comprehensive and cover a broad range of topics relevant to geropsychology. This should include in-depth study of aging processes, cognitive and emotional changes in older adults, assessment and treatment of mental health issues in older populations, ethical considerations, and research methodologies specific to geropsychology. A well-rounded curriculum will equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to work effectively with older adults.
Evaluate the qualifications and expertise of the faculty members in the program. They should possess strong academic backgrounds in geropsychology and have experience working with older adults. Faculty members who have published research or have expertise in specific areas of geropsychology can greatly enhance the learning experience and provide valuable guidance for research or clinical practice.
Access to resources is crucial for an online program. Ensure that the program provides students with access to online databases, scholarly journals, and other relevant resources in the field of geropsychology. Additionally, look for programs that offer interactive online platforms that facilitate collaboration and discussion among students. This can create a dynamic learning environment and foster meaningful interactions with peers and faculty members.
Practical experiences are invaluable in a geropsychology program. Look for programs that provide opportunities for practical application of knowledge, such as supervised practicum experiences or internships in settings that work with older adults. These experiences can help students develop essential skills and gain real-world experience in assessing and treating mental health issues in older populations.
Consider the support services offered by the program, as they can greatly contribute to your overall educational experience. Look for programs that provide mentorship opportunities, career guidance, and networking resources to help students connect with professionals in the field of geropsychology. These support services can be instrumental in shaping your academic and professional journey.
Admissions Requirements for a Master's in Geropsychology
Check the admissions requirements at universities or colleges that offer an online master's degree program in geropsychology before making a final decision on the best school or program. Thomas Edison State University refers prospective students to its graduate admissions page for a list of admissions requirements for all master's degree programs. Admissions requirements include completion of a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution and a minimum of 3.0 GPA. Students who have a GPA of less than 3.0 may apply if they submit a resume and personal statement with their application.
The University of California (USC) explains that it has a competitive admissions policy. The university lists several favorable criteria for admissions, which include:
- Strong potential for research careers through academic record
- Considerable experience conducting research
- Career goals that are consistent with the university model and mission
- Strong letters of endorsement from faculty who know the student well
List of Geropsychology Master’s Degree Programs
Find an online or campus-based master’s program in geropsychology today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.
