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Arnold School of Public Health

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Certificate of Graduate Study in Aging

Are you passionate about working with and improving the lives of our growing aging population? Expand your knowledge and earn specialized preparation through an 18-credit hour training program on health programs and interventions, sociocultural issues, health care services and community resources, and long-term care policies.  This program is administered by the Arnold School’s Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior in partnership with the College of Social Work. 

Why Study Aging?

You can complement your existing or in-progress degree with additional credentials. There is an increasing need for clinical and public health professionals to understand how to work with a growing aging population.

What You'll Learn

You’ll gain the knowledge and skills to be able to interpret the impact of biological, social and psychological changes on the physical, psychological and social well-being of older adults. 

 



The Aging Certificate program is a perfect way for me to learn the science-based problems related to aging, allowing me to better serve others. As an older adult myself, this knowledge helps me in adopting a lifestyle that promotes healthy aging.

Mike Leonard

Program Details 

Students pursuing the certificate must complete 18 credit hours of program coursework. Browse class offerings below and explore the academic bulletin.

  • HPEB 731: Health Promotion for Older Adults
  • SOWK 772: Programs and Services for Older Adults
  • HSPM 764: Long-Term Care Administration
  • Practicum
  • Select electives chosen with the approval of the program director

How To Apply 

The certificate program has rolling admissions. Current USC students in the Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior apply by completing the Concurrent Enrollment form. Other applicants outside of the department or university must apply through The Graduate School. The application fee is waived for 2023-2024.

Admissions Requirements 

  • A four-year baccalaureate degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution
  • Grade point average of 3.00/4.00 or higher
  • For international applicants, a satisfactory score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - minimum score of 80 internet-based, 230 computer-based, or 570 paper-based - or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic Course Type 2 exam - minimum overall band score of 6.5. This requirement may be waived for applicants that have earned a prior degree from a US institution.

Tuition and Fees

View tuition and fees through the Office of the Bursar.


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