Applied Gerontology

Bachelor of Science Degree

The Bachelor of Science in Applied Gerontology is offered in the Theresa Santmann School of Health Sciences at Farmingdale State College.

The field of gerontology is expanding as the number of elders in America continues to increase, quickly outpacing other segments of the population. By 2030 the older population will be more than twice their number from 2000. With over 13% of Americans currently over the age of 65 and projected to be 19% in 2030, our society will be facing crucial issues about aging which will impact the lives of most Americans.

The Applied Gerontology program aims to improve the quality of life of the aged. Central issues to the study of aging are individual, social, and institutional-based. The multidisciplinary course work follows these issues and provides proficiency in all aspects of working with, and administering to, an aging population.

This bachelor’s program is designed to prepare students for entry-level occupational positions in the growing field of aging as well as providing skills and knowledge necessary for graduate and professional school entrance.

All Applied Gerontology students will complete a 4-credit hour internship during their academic work. Students have the opportunity to work in area agencies on aging, private, state, and federal aging, care management organizations, advocacy organizations and non-profits serving older adults and their families.

The structure of the program centers on the traditional 8-semester format with additional options to incorporate approved transfer courses, and full and part-time options. Adult learners and change of career applicants are encouraged to apply and accommodated multiple online/hybrid class opportunities.

Assisted Living Administrations
Consultant/Advocate
Estate Preservation
Federal/State/Local Gov. Agencies
Geriatric Care Managers
Health Educators
Health Insurance Companies
Home Health Care Administration 
Hospice Facility Administration
Hotel Facilities Administration 
Long-term Care Administrator
Rehabilitation Facilities
Research settings
Residential Care Centers
Skilled Nursing Administration

Applied Gerontology (BS) Program Objectives:

  • Graduates will demonstrate an appreciation of fundamental interdisciplinary evidence-based awareness of geriatric care. They will apply personal and social responsibility to ethical behavior in all settings dealing with the elderly and the aging process.
  • Graduates will employ effective oral and written communication skills needed in a global information society.
  • Graduates will evaluate, interpret, and analyze current issues in geriatric science/ administration. They will extrapolate theoretically effective answers to solve problems involving the elderly.
  • Graduates will demonstrate the knowledge base skills needed to interpret analyze and evaluate the gerontology field and to prepare for further professional and graduate education. 

 

Admission to Farmingdale State College - State University of New York is based on the qualifications of the applicant without regard to age, sex, marital or military status, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, disability or sexual orientation.

Contact Information

Nutrition Science and Wellness

Dr. Jack Thomas
Lupton Hall, Room 144
934-420-5651
humanecology@farmingdale.edu
Monday-Friday 8:30am-5:00pm

Fall 2025

Subject to revision

College Requirement (1 credit)
FYE 101 First Year Experience* 1

Liberal Arts and Sciences (64 credits)
EGL 101 Composition I: College Writing (GE) 3
EGL 102 Composition II: Writing About Literature 3
The Arts (GE) 3
US History and Civic Engagement/World History and Global Awareness(GE) 3
World Languages I (GE) 3
World Languages II (GE) 3
Oral Communication (GE) 3
BIO 123 Human Body in Health and Disease (GE) 4
HPW 245 Ethics in Health Professions (GE) OR PHI 205 Ethics (GE) 3
HUM 332 Intercultural Communications (*D) 3
MLG 304 French Culture and Civilization OR MLG 305 Hispanic and Latin American Culture and Civilization OR MLG 306 Italian Culture and Civilization 3
MTH 110 Statistics (GE) 3
NTR 110 Introduction to Nutrition Science 3
PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology (GE) 3
PSY 315 Abnormal Psychology 3
SOC 122 Introduction to Sociology (GE) 3
SOC 225 Sociology of the Family 3
SOC 228 Society and Health 3
Liberal Arts Electives 9
Required: Lower Division (6 credits)
BUS 109 Management Theory and Practice 3
GRO 100 Introduction to Gerontology 3
Required: Upper Division (52 credits)
GRO 300 Biology of Aging OR NTR 325 Nutrition Through Lifecycle 3
GRO 310 Nutrition and Aging 3
GRO 320 Caregiving 3
GRO 330 Public Policy and Aging OR HPW 330 Concepts in Public Health 3
GRO 340 Gender and Aging 3
GRO 350 Healthcare Financial Management 3
GRO 410 Health Care Insurance 3
GRO 420 Long-Term Care Administration 3
GRO 430 Communication and Aging OR SPE 330 Professional and Technical Speech OR PCM 320 Communication in Business OR PCM 333 Organizational Communication 3
GRO 440 Cultural Diversity and Aging OR HPW 470 Healthy America 3
GRO 450 Healthcare Law 3
GRO 460 Internship in Gerontology OR HPW 450 Health Wellness Internship 4
Technical Electives 9
Upper Division Electives (300/400 level) 6
Total Credits 122 - 123

Curriculum Summary

*FYE 101 First Year Experience is required by all first time full time students

Degree Type: BS
Total Required Credits: 122-123

Please refer to the General Education, Applied Learning, and Writing Intensive requirement sections of the College Catalog and consult with your advisor to ensure that graduation requirements are satisfied.

As a part of the SUNY General Education Framework, all first-time full time Freshman at Farmingdale State College (FSC) beginning Fall 2023, are required to develop knowledge and skills in Diversity: Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice (DEISJ). Students will be able to fulfill this requirement at FSC by taking a specially designated DEISJ course that has been developed by faculty and approved by the DEISJ Review Board. DEISJ-approved courses may meet other General Education Knowledge and Skills areas and/or core competencies and thus be dually designated. DEISJ-approved courses may also earn other special designations such as those for Applied Learning or Writing Intensive.

FYE 101 First Year Experience

This course is designed to assist new students in acclimating, connecting, and adjusting to the college campus and experience. Through presentations, discussions and group work, students will become familiar with college resources and learn strategies for academic success. Students will also be introduced to the values and ethical principles of the College and encouraged to reflect on their role/responsibilities as college students. Topics include time management, study skills, stress management, goal setting, course and career planning, self-assessment and awareness, and the development of wellness strategies. Note: Students completing FYE 101 may not receive credit for FRX101, FYS 101, or RAM 101. Credits 1 (1.0)

EGL 101 Composition I: College Writing

This is the first part of a required sequence in college essay writing. Students learn to view writing as a process that involves generating ideas, formulating and developing a thesis, structuring paragraphs and essays, as well as revising and editing drafts. The focus is on the development of critical and analytical thinking. Students also learn the correct and ethical use of print and electronic sources. At least one research paper is required. A grade of C or higher is a graduation requirement. Note: Students passing a departmental diagnostic exam given on the first day of class will remain in EGL 101; all others will be placed in EGL 097. Prerequisite is any of the following: successful completion of EGL 097; an SAT essay score (taken prior to March 1, 2016) of 7 or higher; an SAT essay score (taken after March 1, 2016) of 5 or higher; on-campus placement testing.

EGL 102 Composition II: Writing About Literature

This is the second part of the required introductory English composition sequence. This course builds on writing skills developed in EGL 101, specifically the ability to write analytical and persuasive essays and to use research materials correctly and effectively. Students read selections from different literary genres (poetry, drama, and narrative fiction). Selections from the literature provide the basis for analytical and critical essays that explore the ways writers use works of the imagination to explore human experience. Grade of C or higher is a graduation requirement. Prerequisite(s): EGL 101

BIO 123 Human Body in Health and Disease

This course is an inquiry into the mechanism of diseases that plague human beings. A systemic approach is taken in which all the major systems of the human body and the significant diseases that affect those systems are studied. Emphasis is on failures of homeostasis as the basic mechanisms of disease. Included are discussions on available treatments and therapies, the impact of new technological developments, and maintaining health and avoiding disease. The laboratory component contains both traditional and computer-generated exercises, which illustrate the onset and development of a variety of diseases and pathological states. Note: BIO 123 is approved in the Natural Sciences General Education Competency Area and can serve as a lower-level laboratory science elective within the Liberal Arts. However it does not satisfy Bioscience Core requirements and cannot be used as a substitute for either BIO 130 or BIO 131. Note: The laboratory course, BIO 123L is a part of your grade for this course. Corequisite(s): BIO 123L

HPW 245 Ethics in the Health Professions

Students will explore and discuss current issues and controversies in the health and wellness field. The focus will be on ethical issues raised as a result of social change and modern advances in biotechnology, which directly affect the quality of human life. Bioethics comprises every possible aspect of health care: medical, moral, political, religious, legal and financial. It scrutinizes outmoded laws and policies, as well as the enormous growth in available medical services. Bioethics also takes into account our values and views of ourselves as members of a humane society. A multiple-perspective approach of each topic will be emphasized, including interpreting and evaluating evidence supporting or refuting perspectives. Topics will include discussion of key sociocultural issues including: diversity, equity, and inclusion for underserved populations. Note: Students cannot get credit for both HPW 245 and BIO 240(W). Prerequisite(s): HPW 101 with a grade of C or higher or permission of the department.

PHI 205 Ethics

This course will introduce students to the basic questions, concepts, theories, and methods of moral philosophy as well as teach students how to apply moral philosophy to contemporary issues. The relationship between ethics and other branches of philosophy will also be discussed. NOTE: Students cannot earn credit for PHI 205 and PHI 205H PHI 205H is for students in the Honors Program. Prerequisite(s): EGL 102 with a grade of C or higher

HUM 332 Intercultural Communication

This course is designed to develop an understanding of how specific interpersonal techniques can facilitate effective intercultural communication encounters. Students will be exposed to the ways in which cultural differences affect intercultural communications. Obstacles to effective intercultural communication will be examined and techniques to overcome these will be explored and practiced. NOTE: Students cannot earn credit for HUM 332 and HUM 332*D. HUM 332*D can be used to fulfill the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice requirement.

MLG 304 French Culture and Civilization

An examination of contemporary France and its political, economic and social development. French cultural life and institutions in France will also be considered. This course may not be used to satisfy the foreign language proficiency requirement. Prerequisite(s): EGL 102

MLG 305 Hispanic and Latin American Culture and Civilization

Civilization course: Provides a general perspective on the formation of the Latin American Culture through the centuries, with special emphasis on Spanish America. In parallel form, historical and cultural evolution of the New World and the Iberian Peninsula will be studied, from their beginnings up to the present. Among other aspects, the course will give special attention to the rich multicultural heritage which has been maintained in Latin America through the centuries, as well as its achievements in Art and Literature. NOTE: Students cannot earn credit for MLG 305 and MLG 305*D MLG 305*D can be used to fulfill the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice requirement. Prerequisite(s): EGL 102

MLG 306 Italian Culture and Civilization

An examination of contemporary Italy and its political, economic and social development. Italian cultural life and institutions in Italy will also be considered. This course may not be used to satisfy the foreign language proficiency requirements. Prerequisite(s): EGL 102

MTH 110 Statistics

Basic concepts of probability and statistical inference. Included are the binominal, normal, and chi-square distributions. Practical applications are examined. Computer assignments using Minitab form an integral part of the course. Prerequisite(s): MP2 or MTH 015

NTR 110 Introduction to Nutrition Science

This course stresses the practical application of nutritional science throughout life. It discusses nutritional changes that occur during various life stages such as pregnancy, infancy, adolescence, adulthood, and old age. Students explore the biological aspect of all major nutrients and relate them to chronic diseases. Basic chemistry principles are applied to major nutrient groups. Recommendations for adequate nutrient intake are presented and related to food consumption habits. This course evaluates nutritional supplement claims and discusses changes in athlete nutrient requirements in training and during competition. Note: Students who receive credit for BIO 125 may not receive credit for NTR 110.

PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology

This course is designed to present basic psychological concepts and to introduce students to the scientific study of behavior. Core topics include methods of psychological research, the biological bases of behavior, principles of learning, memory and cognition, personality, and psychopathology. Other selected topics to be covered would include the following: motivation and emotion, life-span development, social psychology, health psychology, sensation and perception, intelligence, human sexuality, statistics, and altered states of consciousness.

PSY 315 Abnormal Psychology

In this course the student will learn about concepts, theories, and issues in psychopathology (the study of mental illness and behavioral disorders). Topics may include historical background, mental health professionals, legal issues, normality/abnormality, etiology/assessment/ diagnosis/therapy, anxiety/stress/depression, personality disorders, sexual deviance, schizophrenia, neurological dysfunction, substance abuse, and psychophysiological disorders. The applications of psychology to personal problem solving will also be explored. Prerequisite(s): PSY 101

SOC 122 Introduction to Sociology

This is an introductory course designed to familiarize students with the field of sociology. In addition to learning about the central concepts and major theoretical sociological perspectives, students study human behavior in groups, the organization of social life, the impact of social institutions on individuals, and the process of sociological research. Great emphasis is also placed upon development of students’ “sociological imagination” – specifically, the ability to understand the ways that our individual lives are shaped by larger social forces and institutions. NOTE: Students cannot earn credit for SOC 122 and 122W or SOC 122*D SOC 122W can be used to fulfill the writing intensive requirement. SOC 122*D can be used to fulfill the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice requirement.

SOC 225 Sociology of the Family

This course examines the family in the United States as a core social institution. We consider theoretical, historical, and cross-cultural aspects of such topics as mate selection, marital dynamics, the changing roles of men and women, parenting and child-rearing, divorce, aging, conflict and violence, alternative lifestyles and family policy. Prerequisite(s): SOC 122

SOC 228 Society and Health

This course examines the meanings and experiences of health and illness and the ways in which social factors like age, gender, class and ethnicity affect health. We explore the historical development of health professions, including alternative health professions. Significant time is also devoted to understanding the workings of the contemporary American healthcare system. NOTE: Students cannot earn credit for SOC 228 and SOC 228*D SOC 228*D can be used to fulfill the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice requirement.

BUS 109 Management Theories and Practices

This introductory course covers management principles pertaining to human resources, individual behavior in organizations, employee motivation and performance, and business ethics. Topics also include managing and the manager’s job; planning and decision making; employee performance appraisal and feedback; leadership and influence processes; interpersonal relations and communication; and managing work groups and teams.

GRO 100 Introduction to Gerontology

This course provides introductory topics in gerontology, including physical, mental, and social aspects associated with aging. It shows the interactions of various types of aging and describes the pathological developments that affect many older people. The course focuses on diversity in the older population. Topics include differing behaviors, traditions, and attitudes among aging. There will be an emphasis on how society is changed when the aging portion of the population increases rapidly.

GRO 300 Biology of Aging

This course involves an examination of the physical changes associated with the aging process and aging body. Knowledge and understanding of these processes are important because these physical changes also affect social, psychological, economic, and other aspects of the aging process. The importance of the topic is based on the growing number of older adults in our communities as well as our increased longevity. Each organ system will be discussed with a focus on age related diseases, conditions, and dysfunction. Prerequisites: BIO 123 Human Body and Health

NTR 325 Nutrition Through Life Cycle

This course explores nutrition needs throughout various stages of the life cycle including pregnancy and lactation, infancy, adolescence, and aging. People require similar nutrients throughout their life, however the amount and ratio of specific nutrients varies according to their age. Students will evaluate the relationship among nutrition, physical growth, activity, and disease on the human body. Socioeconomic and cultural influences will be addressed at each stage of life. Students will further explore psychological/behavioral influences on food and nutrition behavior through the life span. Prerequisite(s):BIO 170, BIO 171 and Junior-Level status

GRO 310 Nutrition of Aging

This course covers concepts of nutrition directed towards improving nutritional status and health among older adults. Course material addresses key issues facing the field of geriatric nutrition, among a variety of contexts, with an eye to recommendations on improving nutrition programs and status among older adults. Federal, state, and community programs involving nutrition among older adults are reviewed and analyzed. This course is designed to provide entry level nutrition training for professionals to assist the growing aging population in maintaining a healthy quality of life. Prerequisite(s): NTR 110

GRO 320 Caregiving

This course takes a comprehensive look at what is known about problems and issues caregivers face, caregiving tasks, caregiver appraisals of the situation, caregiver burden, and the psychosocial, health, social, and work consequences of caregiving. Of particular importance are the cultural, familial, and societal implications of caregiving for older adults. The course also will explore long-term care facilities, including nursing homes and assistant-living facilities. Prerequisites: Junior Status

GRO 330 Public Policy and Aging

This course addresses the impacts of national age-based and age-related policy and programs such as Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, American with Disabilities Act, the Older Americans Act, and the Affordable Care Act. In addition, it examines the implementation of these programs in state and local settings, where implications are tangible for vulnerable groups such as low-income and frail older people and their families. Policy challenges of issues such as Alzheimer’s, long-term care, housing, caregiving, transportation, nutrition, research funding, and disease prevention are discussed. Although the focus is on the United States, there will be opportunities for students to explore aging policies in international settings. Prerequisites: Junior Status

HPW 330 Concepts in Public Health

This course is designed to introduce the basic tenets, applications, and foci of public health, including integrating public health with other health professions. It will provide a history of public health with an emphasis on the practical application of public health theories and principles in public health program delivery. It will integrate various interactive learning strategies to both individual and community health outcomes. Prerequisite(s): HPW 200 or GRO 100 and Junior level status

GRO 340 Gender and Aging

The course will focus on dominant gender paradigms and ways in which gender contributes to the differential structuring of health experiences for women, men and gender minorities. The course will incorporate historical, theoretical and empirical perspectives to explore the relationship between gender, aging, and health in America and other countries. It also explores the relationship at the intersection of class, ethnicity and sexuality, and throughout the course of life. Prerequisites: Junior Status

GRO 350 Health Care Financial Management

This course will introduce students to the key health care accounting, costing, budgeting, and reimbursement methodologies necessary for the effective management of the finances of a health care facility. Emphasis will be placed on those concepts required for the fiduciary oversight of long-term care and other health care organizations. The essential analytical tools, techniques, and data necessary to ensure sound fiscal operation of health care organizations will be discussed. A combination of accounting and finance concepts will be utilized to enhance the student's decision-making skills. Prerequisite(s): Junior level status

GRO 410 Health Care Insurance

This course explores the history, structure and likely future trends of health insurance in the U.S. The course includes policy analyses, availability, costs, and limitations in regard to the health insurance needs of the elderly. It provides an in-depth overview of the basic features of private health insurance: including operational challenges and requirements, to cost and quality controls. In addition, the course discusses financial and political challenges to continued viability of Medicare and Medicaid. Several comparisons are provided to international systems as a means for better understanding the unique aspects of the American system. Note: Students who take GRO 410W cannot receive credit for GRO 410; GRO 410W can be used to fulfill the writing intensive requirement. Prerequisite(s): Junior status and GRO100 Introduction to Gerontology

GRO 420 Long-Term Care Administration

This course presents principles of nursing home management and assisted living services which examines administrative and staffing functions relating to clients, community, public policy, programming and financing. It provides a solid foundation in the operational functioning of long-term care facilities in the United States. The health care environment and the health care system are examined to determine how they impact long-term care administration. Both the long-term private and public sectors of health care organization are overviewed. Multiple long-term health care delivery systems are explored as to what they can offer the elderly and special needs populations. Prerequisite(s): Junior Level Status

GRO 430 Communication and Aging

This course approaches gerontology from a communication perspective. Attention is devoted to the ways in which communication sustains and deteriorates group collaboration among local, national, and global communities. Through central theories of communication there is recognition that aging is not just an individual process, but also an interactive and intergenerational process. Gerontology 430 shows that communication processes define, form, maintain, and dissolve all social relationships for all age groups. Further, this course gives insight into advertising/marketing communications geared toward the increasing senior population in the United States. Prerequisite(s): EGL 101

SPE 330 Professional and Technical Speech

A course designed to prepare students to develop and deliver oral presentations in a professional, business, scientific, or technical context, stressing methods of presenting information specific to students’ disciplines. Students use audio-visual materials or technology to enhance their presentations. Prerequisite(s): EGL 102

PCM 333 Organizational Communication

This course provides an overview of theories and practices of management and communication. The focus is on how communication operates in organizations, the effects of communication on organizational life, and how communication can be made more efficient and effective in meeting personal as well as organizational goals. Students will apply their knowledge to real-world Professional Communication phenomena utilizing a case-study approach. This combination of theory and application develops knowledge and skills necessary for success in corporate communication environments. Prerequisite(s): PCM 201 with a grade of C or higher

GRO 440 Cultural Diversity and Aging

This course provides an overview of diversity in aging through a multidisciplinary approach. Cultural Diversity & Aging explores key gerontological concepts, examines current applicable research, and summarizes important policies concerning the senior population. Within historical context this course separates gerontologic contributions from several disciplines (sociology, psychology, demography, and public policy). Cultural Diversity & Aging challenges students to consider complex issues of aging and their unique impact on diverse aged populations. Additionally, it examines the diversity among seniors in such complex areas as; ethnic origin, education, income, health status, health beliefs and their individual relation to the health care industry. Prerequisites: GRO 300 with a grade of C- or higher

HPW 470 Healthy America

This course provides students with current health information in areas such as psychosocial health, substance abuse, injuries, death, sexuality, sexually transmitted diseases, fitness, nutrition, stress management and environmental issues. Environmental health is examined from a health practitioner perspective, with a focus on urban versus rural American living situations. This course also investigates solutions to American health inequities, with strategies for improvement at the local, state, and federal levels. NOTE: Students cannot earn credit for HPW 470 and HPW 470*D HPW 470*D can be used to fulfill the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice requirement. Prerequisite(s): NTR 305 and Junior level status

GRO 450 Health Care Law

Health care is one of the most regulated sectors of our economy. This course examines the overlapping layers of federal, state and local jurisdiction to better understand health care law. It specifies the law as it relates to health administration and long-term care management. The course critically examines ethical dilemmas and the law associated with elder rights and long-term care facilities from multiple points of view. With the increasing intersection between health care delivery and the law, health care managers encounter a wide range of legal and regulatory issues, including patients’ rights, institutional liability, and employee relations. Prerequisite(s): Senior Status

GRO 460 Internship in Gerontology

In this course students have the opportunity to gain hands on experience in a professional setting. It is oriented towards professional development that builds skills and abilities related to job-seeking, and career. The focus is on development of professional tools including portfolios, resumes, interviewing skills, and relevant certifications. The field experience is individualized based on the career interests of the student and the specific needs of the organization. Field experience proposals must be presented and approved prior to registration for the course. Prerequisite(s): Program GPA 2.75 minimum, GRO 420, and Junior Level Status

HPW 450 Health & Wellness Internship

The Health Promotion and Wellness internship course is a professional development orientated course that builds skills and abilities related to job-seeking, career, and field experiences. The focus is on the development of professional skills including portfolios, resumes, interviewing skills, and relevant certifications. The internship is individualized based on the career interests of the student and the specific needs of the organization. Internship proposals must be presented and approved by the department prior to registration for the course. Prerequisite(s): HPW 410 or GRO 420, Junior level status and Approval of department chair.

Last Modified 5/9/25