Frequently Asked Questions about the Gerontology Certificate Program
- To become a student in the Certificate Program, do I have to be enrolled in a graduate program at the University of Tennessee, or can I simply enroll in the Certificate Program?
In order to enroll in the Certificate Program, students must first be admitted to the Graduate School as either a prospective candidate for a graduate degree in an academic department or in a non-degree program seeking status with Gerontology as the major. The Gerontology Coordinator will provide advice to interested students on the necessary steps to secure admission to the Graduate School.
- I am currently enrolled in a graduate program at the University of Tennessee. What do I need to do to apply to the Gerontology Certificate Program?
Mail your completed Gerontology Certificate Program Admission Application (in MS Word format) to the Gerontology Certificate Program Chair, Dr. Sherry Cummings at the address in the bottom of this page.
- I am completing a Master’s degree and I am interested in the Certificate Program, but I am not sure how it would fit into my program of study. Can I complete the requirements for my degree and the Certificate and still graduate in two years?
The Certificate Program is designed so that elective courses in most programs that have been approved as Certificate courses can be used to fulfill Certificate requirements. Courses may be used to count towards both a Master’s degree and the Gerontology Certificate if they fulfill requirements of both programs. With proper planning, one can complete both programs of study in a two-year period.
- I have already completed a Master’s (Doctoral) degree and wish to come to the University of Tennessee for the sole purpose of completing the Graduate Certificate of Gerontology. Is this possible?
Yes. A number of individuals have completed the Graduate Certificate in Gerontology after having earned a Master’s or Doctoral degrees. Admission must be secured from the Graduate School as a non-degree candidate. The Gerontology Coordinator will guide individuals to appropriate departments and personnel in the Graduate School who will provide assistance in gaining admission to the Graduate School under these circumstances.
- What if I am unable to complete all of the requirements before I graduate? Is it possible for me to continue to take courses to earn the Certificate of Gerontology?
Yes. If all Certificate of Gerontology requirements cannot be met before graduation from a degree program, work may still be done toward the Certificate after graduation. Non-degree status must be granted through the Graduate School early in the semester before enrollment in courses as a non-degree student. Please note any student anticipating following this route should consult with an advisor.
- What job opportunities are available to me as a result of completing the Graduate Certificate of Gerontology?
The completion of the Certificate will be formally noted on your transcript if the appropriate Completion of Certificate Program form has been filed and will indicate to prospective employers that, in addition to training within a particular discipline and degree program, formal interdisciplinary training in gerontology has been obtained.
- How long do I have to finish the Certificate? Is there a deadline?
There is no established time limit for receiving the certificate. If classes have not been taken over a three-year period, a student will be considered “inactive.” Students who have been classified as “inactive” can have the status lifted by scheduling an advisory session with the Gerontology Coordinator. This meeting is necessary to review the courses which are available and necessary for completion of the Certificate requirements.
- Who should I contact if I have additional questions?
You should contact the Gerontology Coordinator if you have any additional questions:
Sherry Cummings, Ph.D.
Gerontology Coordinator
The University of Tennessee
College of Social Work
193 Polk Ave., Suite E
Nashville, TN 37210
615-256-1885. ext. 118
Gerontology Programs - Background
Admission to Certificate Program
Certificate Program Course of Study
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