Overview
Matthew Bereza, Division Chair
Gerontology is the scientific study of the process of aging and old age from a wide variety of disciplinary perspectives. Chief among these are the biological and social sciences, the humanities, and various professional fields. Contributing departments at St. John Fisher University include biology, chemistry, economics, nursing, religious studies, and sociology. Furthermore, Gerontology is notable for the integration of several disciplines in the study of various aging-related topics, such as healthy aging, longevity, Alzheimer’s disease, senior care, work and retirement, and death and dying.
The gerontology program at St. John Fisher University reflects both the multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary nature of the field as a whole. Thus, the minor is especially well suited as either a complement or specialized focus for students from all majors. The minor offers key courses that introduce students to the foundations of aging from the social and biological perspectives, as well as an array of electives from a wide variety of departments/programs. Additionally, students will be able to enhance their classroom studies through service-learning, practicum, and research opportunities that provide hands-on, educational experiences in the field, as well as help connect them with various agencies and organizations serving older adults in the Rochester area.