If you’re aiming for higher-level administrative roles to improve the well-being of the aging population, a master’s in gerontology is your pathway forward. These programs focus on developing leadership, policy analysis, and comprehensive care management skills, preparing graduates for roles like Geriatric Care Manager, earning a median salary of $110,680 in 2023, or Senior Living Administrator, with a median salary of $104,900 the same year.
Typically completed in 18 months to two years, these programs offer practical and theoretical training for impactful careers. With an average graduate tuition of $19,749, investing in one of the best programs is an excellent way to prepare for a fulfilling and financially rewarding career.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best Gerontology degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 12 Accredited Master’s in Gerontology Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
Miami University
Intelligent Score: 99.63In-state: $12,637
Out-of-state: $32,464
In-state: $12,554
Out-of-state: $12,554
SAT: 1160-1370
ACT: 24-30
$580
On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
37
University of Nebraska Omaha
Intelligent Score: 98.52In-state: $7,770
Out-of-state: $24,900
In-state: $6,138
Out-of-state: $6,138
SAT: 1110-1320
ACT: 22-28
In-State: $664
Out-of-State: $1,405
On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
36
University of Louisiana Monroe
Intelligent Score: 97.16In-state: $5,407
Out-of-state: $19,135
In-state: $5,511
Out-of-state: $5,511
SAT: 1000-1210
ACT: 20-26
$1,044
On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
36
Georgia State University
Intelligent Score: 97.02In-state: $7,158
Out-of-state: $22,389
In-state: $7,164
Out-of-state: $7,164
SAT: 1030-1260
ACT: 20-26
In-State: $398
Out-of-State: $1,259
On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
36
The George Washington University
Intelligent Score: 95.92In-state: $55,961
Out-of-state: $55,961
In-state: $31,770
Out-of-state: $31,770
SAT: 1270-1450
ACT: 30-33
$1,450
On-Campus
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
48
University of Southern California
Intelligent Score: 95.73In-state: $59,260
Out-of-state: $59,260
In-state: $47,880
Out-of-state: $47,880
SAT: 1340-1530
ACT: 30-34
$2,354
On-Campus, Online
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
44
University of Southern Indiana
Intelligent Score: 93.42In-state: $8,716
Out-of-state: $20,252
In-state: $10,246
Out-of-state: $10,246
SAT: 980-1170
ACT: 19-25
In-State: $432
Out-of-State: $847
On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
42
Bowling Green State University
Intelligent Score: 89.89In-state: $9,463
Out-of-state: $17,452
In-state: $8,017
Out-of-state: $8,017
SAT: 1020-1210
ACT: 20-26
$778
On-Campus, Online
Higher Learning Commission
33
University of Utah
Intelligent Score: 89.72In-state: $7,412
Out-of-state: $26,017
In-state: $6,666
Out-of-state: $6,666
SAT: 1130-1350
ACT: 22-29
$1,005
On-Campus
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
33-34
Youngstown State University
Intelligent Score: 88.48In-state: $8,966
Out-of-state: $9,326
In-state: $6,072
Out-of-state: $6,072
SAT: 960-1190
ACT: 18-24
In-State: $1,091
Out-of-State: $1,121
On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
36
San Francisco State University
Intelligent Score: 88.20In-state: $5,742
Out-of-state: $17,622
In-state: $7,176
Out-of-state: $7,176
SAT: 930-1130
ACT: 16-23
$700
On-Campus
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
33
Virginia Commonwealth University
Intelligent Score: 87.98In-state: $12,179
Out-of-state: $32,827
In-state: $12,703
Out-of-state: $12,703
SAT: 1060-1250
ACT: 21-28
In-State: $723
Out-of-State: $1,486
On-Campus, Online
National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards
30
How to Choose a Master’s in Gerontology Degree Program
Choose your area of study
While gerontology is already a niche field, choosing an area of study within your graduate degree program allows for more focused learning so that you can center your education around your career goals. As a bonus, a well-chosen specialization can increase your competitiveness in the job market — especially in this field. By focusing your studies on a particular niche, you’ll develop more knowledge in that area, making you more attractive to employers and more effective in your chosen role.
For instance, healthcare professionals might focus on senior health management, while those interested in advocacy can delve into public policy. Research enthusiasts could specialize in aging studies to pursue academic or clinical research careers.
Research schools and programs
With your intended specialization in mind, you can begin researching schools and programs to find the best fit. To guide your research, consider these questions:
- Does the program offer a curriculum that supports my specialization?
- What are the faculty’s research interests and experience in this area?
- Are there internships or practical opportunities available?
- What career services or networking opportunities does the program offer?
- Is the program accredited, and what is its reputation among employers?
For answers, explore program websites, contact admissions offices, and contact current students or alumni for further insights into each program’s strengths.
Prepare for tests and applications
Preparing for tests and applications can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Start by seeking out letters of recommendation early to avoid any last-minute delays. Then, begin working on your personal statement in advance, highlighting your enthusiasm for the program and your readiness for graduate-level study.
If the program requires GRE scores, consider enrolling in a test prep course to reinforce critical skills and familiarize yourself with the exam format. This can boost confidence and help you achieve a competitive score.
Select your program
When acceptance letters arrive, revisit your research criteria and focus on how each school aligns with your priorities — like curriculum relevance, alum outcomes, and faculty you’re excited to learn from. Consider the program’s overall cost of attendance alongside any promising financial aid opportunities to ensure the program is a good financial fit. This approach will help you choose a program that meets your academic, career, and financial needs — ultimately setting you on a path to success.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
To fund your degree without significant debt, prioritize scholarships and grants, which don’t require repayment and can help offset costs. Next, consider assistantships that offer stipends or tuition reductions in return for part-time teaching or research work. If you’re employed in a related field, ask if your employer offers tuition reimbursement for continuing education. For any remaining costs, explore federal loans, which are known for their lower interest rates and flexible repayment options.
What Can You Expect From a Master’s in Gerontology Program?
Typically completed in 18 months to two years, a master’s in gerontology will prepare you to excel in the field of aging and elderly care. These programs offer an in-depth understanding of the biological, psychological, and social aspects of aging. As a student, you’ll explore critical topics like longevity, aging processes, and the societal implications of an aging population. Courses delve into public policy, senior health, and community services, providing graduates with a comprehensive toolkit to address the challenges and opportunities in elder care.
Programs frequently offer both thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to customize their education to more research-oriented careers or direct professional practice in gerontology.
Potential courses you’ll take in a master’s in gerontology program
- Geriatric Health Management: Often considered a core requirement, many curriculums offer a version of this course that addresses the unique health needs and challenges of the elderly population. It covers chronic disease management, mental health, and preventative care, emphasizing an interdisciplinary approach to designing and managing effective senior care programs.
- Aging Policy and Advocacy: Another common element in most curriculums, this course examines the formulation, implementation, and effects of policies affecting the aging population. Students analyze case studies and current events to understand advocacy strategies and policy-making processes relevant to aging.
- Ethical Issues in Aging: Usually considered an elective, this course analyzes the ethical considerations in senior care and research. Students debate real-life scenarios and moral dilemmas, such as end-of-life decisions, informed consent, and distribution of limited resources.
- Gerontechnology: This elective explores how technology can support the aging process, including advancements in telemedicine, assistive devices, and digital health records. Participants learn about the design, application, and impact of technology in improving older adults’ quality of life and independence.
Master’s in Gerontology Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to a master's in gerontology degree program?
To apply for a master’s in gerontology, complete the application form on the university’s website and prepare to submit the following documents:
- Official transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- GRE scores, if required
Degree requirements can vary between institutions, so it’s essential to consult with an admissions counselor to ensure you meet all criteria and understand the application process for your chosen program.
How much does a master's in gerontology degree cost?
For the 2020-2021 academic year, the average cost of graduate tuition was $19,749. However, many factors can cause this figure to vary, including whether the school is public or private and whether you qualify for in-state residency.
Beyond tuition, you should prepare for additional expenses like books, supplies, commuting, and housing costs. Budgeting for these expenses is essential to get a comprehensive understanding of the total cost of the degree program.
How long does it take to earn a master's in gerontology degree?
Earning this degree takes 18 months to two years for full-time students. Part-time students might take longer — usually three to four years — depending on how many courses they enroll in each semester. It’s important to consider the program’s total number of required credits, as this varies and can affect completion timelines. Some programs may also offer accelerated options or require a thesis, which could also influence the duration of the program. Always check specific program requirements to plan your education effectively.