MS Gerontology at University of Idaho

Programme overview

As Idaho and the nation experience rapid population aging, organizations need professionals who can support older adults, strengthen aging-related programs and improve systems of care. University of Idaho’s online Master of Science in gerontology will prepare you to understand aging across health, psychology, policy, community systems and the social, biological and ethical dimensions of later life.

What you will study

The degree totals 30 credits. Required courses listed in the catalogue include GERO 5001 Intro to Gerontology; GERO 5002 Research Methods in Gerontology; GERO 5003 Biological Aspects of Aging; GERO 5006 Health Promotion & Preventive Care in Aging; GERO 5007 Mental & Cognitive Health in Aging; GERO 5011 Integrative Capstone I: Applied Research & Practice.

Career pathways

in gerontology is designed for students at every career stage. New graduates can deepen their education before entering the workforce, while professionals in health care, social services, nonprofits, senior living, administration, policy or community programs can upskill, move into leadership or pivot into aging-focused roles without pausing their careers. Related occupations listed for this programme include Medical and Health Services Managers; Social and Community Service Managers; Postsecondary Specialized Health Teachers; Postsecondary Social Work Teachers; Health Educators; Community Health Workers.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Education level: Bachelor's degree from an accredited or recognized institution (earned or expected before the start of the graduate program) Transcripts for all post-secondary education will be required. Unofficial transcripts may be used for initial admission review. Official transcripts sent directly by the issuing institution(s) will be required if admitted.; GPA: 3.0 (Applicants with a lower undergraduate GPA who have relevant professional experience in the field, have already earned a graduate degree, or have completed graduate-level credits may still be considered for admission with approval from the academic program.); Number of references: Not required; Statement of Purpose: Applicants are asked to respond to a series of prompts outlining their reasons for pursuing a master's degree in gerontology, including background, professional experience and/or career goals.; English proficiency (for applicants whose education was completed in countries where English is not an official language). Accepted tests: TOEFL: 4.5, IELTS: 6.5, Duolingo: 115, PTE-A: 58.; Valid picture ID (required to verify students’ identity and will be kept confidential). Applicants must also meet University of Idaho College of Graduate Studies admission requirements.

Entry terms: fall (August start), spring (January start) and summer (mid-May start). Fall 2027 applications are open and the university admits on a rolling basis.

Graduate priority dates for full consideration for admission and funding: fall Jan. 15, spring Sept. 1, summer Jan. 15. Domestic deadlines: fall July 30, spring Dec. 1. International deadlines: fall Apr. 15, spring Oct. 1. Programme-specific deadlines take precedence. The online application fee is $50 (non-refundable); GRE only where a programme requires it.

Law (JD): apply through the LSAC portal; the Fall 2027 application opens Sept. 1, 2026 and the final deadline is June 30, 2027. The application fee is $50 (waived through Jan. 15, 2027).

Apply through the official page: https://www.uidaho.edu/graduate-studies/admissions

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