Student Learning Outcomes

Secondary Major in Gerontology

Overview

The secondary major in gerontology, which may include an emphasis in long-term care
administration, provides students at Kansas State University the opportunity to integrate
knowledge received in their major professional disciplines with a program of academic study
and field experience in gerontology. The program objectives are consistent with the Core
Principles and Outcomes of Gerontology, Geriatrics, and Aging Studies instruction as developed
by the Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education.

A graduate with a secondary major in Gerontology should have these basic competencies:

Knowledge

1. Gerontology Secondary Majors will understand and apply current theory and research in
the interdisciplinary field of gerontology and its role in society.
2. Gerontology Secondary Majors will have knowledge of relationships among older adults,
their families and society.

Critical Thinking

3. Gerontology Secondary Majors will demonstrate critical thinking and problem solving
through course work and experiential activities.
4. Gerontology Secondary Majors will understand and evaluate ageism in American society
and socially conscious behavior regarding the older population.

Communication

5. Gerontology Secondary Majors will demonstrate effective written and oral
communication skills.

Diversity

6. Gerontology Secondary Majors will be able to recognize and examine the diverse
experience of older adults in American and global societies.

Ethical Behavior

7. Gerontology Secondary Majors will be able to understand and evaluate ethical and
social policy issues important in the field of aging.