Graduate Catalog 2025-2026

Gerontology (MS)

The Master of Science in Gerontology Program is aimed at training the student with the knowledge, skills and values of the profession. The aging process is conceptualized from an integral perspective, considering the cultural diversity in the population of elderly adults. Multidisciplinary collaboration is used as a means to provide quality services to this population. The Program includes the study of concepts, principles, theories and models of gerontology. It integrates research, practice based on evidence and management principles.

The Arecibo and Barranquitas Campus are authorized to offer this Program.

Competencies Profile of Graduates

This Program is designed to develop the competencies that allow the student to:

Knowledge

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

  1. the aging process from a holistic perspective.
  2. research in the field of gerontology.
  3. public policy that benefits the elderly population.
  4. the formal settings of attention through the development of innovative programs.

Skills

  1. Apply methodologies and research findings to promote evidence-based practice.
  2. Coordinate with the members of the multidisciplinary team quality services for elderly adults.
  3. Develop community research projects for comprehensive holistic care of elderly adults.
  4. Manage care programs and projects for the care of the elderly.

Attitudes

  1. Value a gerontological culture that responds to current needs and interests, in harmony with the changes in society.
  2. Integrate a comprehensive care of the elderly using as foundation the biopsychosocial aspect of the individual.
  3. Develop awareness of ethical responsibility, protection and respect during the provision of services to the elderly population.
  4. Demonstrate professional values such as integrity, responsibility, collaboration, and respect among colleagues, competence and professional updating.

Admission Requirements

In addition to the admission requisites in this Catalog, the student will have to:

  1. Comply with the requirements established in the current Graduate Catalog.
  2. Possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
  3. Have a minimum academic index of 2.50 in the last 60 credits of academic work.
  4. Send two letters of recommendation from supervisors or teachers provided in the Administration Application - Graduate Programs.

Graduation Requirements

  1. Comply with the requirements of the Graduate Catalog.
  2. Pass all courses with a minimum grade of B.

Requirements of the Master in Science in Gerontology

Core Requisites 6 credits
Concentration Requisites 30 credits
Total 36 credits

Core Requisites - 6 credits

GERO 5010Epidemiology

3

GERO 5020Biostatistics

3

Specialization Requirements - 30 credits

GERO 5110Principles and Fundamentals of Gerontology

3

GERO 5120Theoretical Models in Gerontology

3

GERO 6120Physiological Aspects

3

GERO 6130Environment and Advanced Age

3

GERO 6140Assessment in Advanced Aged People

3

GERO 6210Methodology of Research in Gerontology

3

GERO 6220Administration in Gerontology

3

GERO 6230Models of Attention in Gerontology

3

GERO 6240Integration of professional competences in Gerontology

3

GERO 6970Integrating Seminar

3