COURSE CURRICULUM

The Interdisciplinary Studies Master’s with a concentration in Applied Gerontology at the University of North Texas offers students a flexible and interdisciplinary graduate education focused on understanding aging, improving the lives of older adults, and addressing the complex social, healthcare, behavioral, and policy-related challenges associated with aging populations. Students create a customized degree plan with the guidance and approval of a three-member faculty advisory committee representing the three academic disciplines included in the student’s program of study. This structure ensures that students receive broad interdisciplinary training while maintaining strong academic direction and professional relevance. The program allows students to study in person at UNT’s Denton or Frisco campuses or complete the degree entirely online, making it highly accessible for both traditional students and working professionals. UNT’s online Interdisciplinary Studies master’s program has been recognized among the Top 25 Programs in the Nation by MyDegreeGuide.com, reflecting the program’s quality, flexibility, and adaptability. The curriculum encourages students to synthesize ideas and research from multiple academic perspectives in order to develop a more comprehensive understanding of aging and related societal issues. Students may combine gerontology with disciplines such as sociology, healthcare management, anthropology, criminal justice, psychology, public administration, or geography to build specialized expertise tailored to career goals. Coursework provides both theoretical and applied knowledge through classes such as Social Gerontology, Introduction to Health Services Research, Processes of Aging, Health and Aging, and ABA Issues: Behavioral Gerontology. The program prepares graduates for careers in healthcare systems, aging services, senior living administration, nonprofit organizations, public policy, community services, behavioral health, advocacy, and research involving older adult populations. Students also strengthen communication, analytical thinking, research, and interdisciplinary problem-solving abilities that are increasingly valuable as populations age worldwide. Overall, the degree equips graduates with the knowledge and practical skills needed to support healthy aging, improve elder care systems, and contribute to the development of age-friendly communities, services, and institutions while pursuing meaningful careers dedicated to enhancing quality of life for older adults.