As with most professions, education is not the only factor in determining your salary working in gerontology. What you can earn will vary according to the type of position as well as your level of experience in the field.
Types of Work Environments in Gerontology
There are a variety of career paths in gerontology. Branches of this study include teaching, research, government as well as working in the health care sector. Some of these environments include work in nursing homes, hospitals, public health offices, and mental health and rehabilitation centers. Some gerontologists also find work alongside other professionals such as counselors and dieticians.
Average Salary for Gerontology Careers in Counseling
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2008 average annual wage was $33,780 for educational counselors, $34,550 for counselors in mental health services and $27,120 for rehabilitation counselors. Having a Master’s Degree in Gerontology can substantially increase your yearly earnings.
Average Salary for Gerontology Careers in Social Work
The Bureau of Labors Statistics reported that in 2008 the average salary was $34, 360 for family social work, $44,460 for public health social work, $35,500 for mental health social work and $46,300 for other fields of social work. These numbers vary depending on the type of environment you work in. Statistically those working in hospitals earn more than those who work in the private sector. These wages also increase with education and experience.
Starting Salaries in Gerontology
The average starting salary with a Master’s in Gerontology may seem low, but that is simply because careers in this field vary so greatly in regards to education and experience. Gerontology is important work, and having a career studying the affects of aging as well as helping the elderly along with their families can be very rewarding. This field is also expected to increase by nearly 40 percent over the next eight years, so opportunity and demand for these jobs will only be greater. Earning a Master’s Degree in Gerontology will increase available opportunities as well as potential wages.
Top Masters Degrees in Gerontology
Gerontology is the study of medical, mental, and social aspects associated with aging. Individuals with master's degrees in gerontology or related degrees such as public policy, public administration, health services, healthcare administration, social services, or public health are able to apply their gerontological knowledge to policies and programs within the government and/or local communities.
MS in Gerontology
MS in Social Services
Master of Public Health
MPH in Health Policy
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Capella University : The Masters programs in gerontology and social & community services at Capella University are online degrees that explore the science of aging on individuals, families, and communities. The curriculum includes coursework in biological, epidemiological, and psychological aging, as well as cultural and social attitudes toward the elderly.
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MS in Gerontology
MS in Aging Services Mgmt
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University of Southern California : University of Southern California is backed by years of excellence in serving students and helping them to the center of ever-expanding fields. Upon graduating, students are able to fill key positions, including several leadership roles that remain high in demand. USC has a Masters in Gerontology and a Masters in Aging Services Management available through online programs.
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MHA in Gerontology
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University of Phoenix : The MHA degree in gerontology from the University of Phoenix features a curriculum that discusses the physical, mental, and social aspects of gerontology as well as human services, economics, and legal issues pertaining to the elderly population. The program is designed for health care professionals with diverse backgrounds passionate about the study of gerontology.
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Master's in Gerontology
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University of Massachusetts : The University of Massachusetts Master's in Gerontology program prepares students for immersion into the dynamic world of aging services. The curriculum includes long-term care, service-supported housing, community-based services, marketing to an aging population, and chronic health services.
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BS in Gerontology
Master of Health Admin
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Kaplan University : Kaplan University offers a variety of healthcare degrees, including the Master of Healthcare Administration and BS in human services with a gerontological specialization. The Master of Health Care Administration - Gerontology program combines online coursework with in class experiences. A capstone requirement includes an externship at a healthcare facility. The BS program studies the public and private policies of the healthcare industry.
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Master of Public Admin
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Ashford University : Tired of how government is run? Make your own change by attending Ashford University and pursuing a Master of Public Administration degree. This online degree gives students tools in urban planning, decision making, policy implementation, and managing personnel. Graduates find successes throughout the public space, including gerontology.
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Master of Public Health
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Walden University : Graduates of the Walden University Master of Public Health degree program fill the need for gerontology health professionals that must understand the development of healthy individuals, organizations, and communities. The program provides core study in the public health field, uses a real-world teaching methodology, has industry leading professors, and includes a practical fieldwork practicum.
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MBA in Health Services
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Keiser University : The Keiser University MBA in Health Services Management program offers the following specializations: Accounting, Health Services Management, International Business, Leadership for Managers, and Marketing. Graduates of the program use their acquired skills of problem solving and applied research methods to become leaders in the healthcare business field, including the business of gerontology.
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MPA in Public Policy
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South University : The South University Master of Public Policy degree program is built to prepare the next leaders in local, state, and national government, as well as the non-profit sector. The multidisciplinary curriculum allows for students to explore elective and capstone courses on a wide range of governmental and non-profit topics, including gerontology. Specializations include Non-Profit Management, Public Policy, Criminal Justice, and Information Technology.
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