ObjectivesThe Graduate Certificate in Applied Gerontology seeks to introduce the basic principles and skills involved in social and clinical gerontology with a program equivalent to one semester of full-time study. It further aims to meet the professional development needs of graduates with an interest in ageing studies and aged care. In particular, the course aims to produce students who: * have a clear appreciation of the concept of 'healthy ageing' and the implications of this concept for professional practice; * understand the 'life-course perspective' and alternative views of ageing; * are able to critique gerontological research and prepare proposals to undertake such research; * appreciate a multidisciplinary approach to problem solving and professional practice and are capable of using this approach; * are capable of ethical decision-making in relation to gerontological practice; * have achieved an international and multicultural awareness of ageing issues; * have knowledge and skills relevant to social and/or clinical gerontological practice and are able to apply these to improve that professional practice; * are capable of taking full advantage of online learning and web-based research tools in professional practice. Learning outcomes At the completion of the course, students are expected to be able to: * to demonstrate an understanding of core course concepts (eg. healthy ageing, life-course, multidisciplinary practice, ageist stereotyping); * to undertake an effective Internet literature review and an assessment and critique of gerontological research; * to complete professional-standard aged care planning and problem solving tasks; * to show a sound understanding of ageing in a global context; * to indicate a capacity to undertake, reflect upon and evaluate core professional tasks such as basic gerontological clinical and needs assessment and ethical decision-making.
Entry requirementsApplicants must normally hold an approved degree or equivalent qualification in a cognate field from an approved tertiary institution and at least one year's ageing-relevant work experience. However, the Faculty Board may, under certain circumstances and subject to specific conditions, admit others who can show evidence of fitness for candidature.
Academic titleGraduate Certificate in Applied Gerontology
Course descriptionThe Graduate Certificate in Applied Gerontology is an 18-unit program offered by the Faculty of Health Sciences on a Commonwealth Supported basis.
The course articulates with the Graduate Diploma in Applied Gerontology and Master of Applied Gerontology. The sequentially developed topics allow progression through the awards.
Students who complete the graduate certificate normally receive credit for up to 18 units of topics should they wish to proceed with the graduate diploma or Master of Applied Gerontology.
The program is multi-disciplinary in nature and is taught entirely by web-based delivery. Students must have proficiency in basic computer and internet skills as this course is taught externally. Students must also have access to modern IT equipment.
PROGRAM OF STUDY [November, 2008]
To qualify for the Graduate Certificate in Applied Gerontology, a student must complete 18 units with a grade of P or NGP or better in each topic, according to the following program of study.
Not all topics may be available in a given year.
Except with permission of the Faculty Board:
* the course must be completed within six consecutive semesters;
* no topic may be attempted more than twice.
The award of a grade of Fail (F) in three or more topics, or the award of a grade of Fail (F) in the same topic on more than one occasion, may constitute prima facie evidence of unsatisfactory progress for the purposes of the University's Policy on Student Progress.