COURSE CURRICULUM

The Aging Studies programs at Wichita State University are designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of aging and its effects on individuals, families, communities, and society. The instructional mission of these programs is to prepare students for careers in which they will plan, manage, coordinate, and deliver services for older adults through public and private organizations, healthcare systems, social service agencies, community programs, and long-term care institutions. Offered through a collaboration between Fairmount College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the College of Health Professions, the programs focus on the social, psychological, health, and policy-related aspects of aging while developing the professional skills needed to support an aging population. Students can pursue two fully online undergraduate degree options: the Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) with an emphasis in Aging Studies and the Bachelor of Arts (BA) Field Major in Aging Studies. These flexible programs allow students to build an individualized course of study centered on aging studies while gaining knowledge relevant to careers in healthcare, human services, community outreach, senior living, and public administration. In addition to undergraduate degrees, the College of Health Professions offers a minor in Aging Studies, a Master of Arts in Aging Studies, and an Administrator-in-Training (AIT) program that helps prepare students for long-term care administration licensure. The curriculum emphasizes understanding the needs of older adults, promoting healthy aging, supporting families and caregivers, addressing social and healthcare challenges, and developing effective services and policies for aging populations. Through its fully online format, the program provides accessibility and flexibility for traditional students, working professionals, and adult learners. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge, leadership abilities, and practical skills necessary to serve an increasingly important and rapidly growing segment of society, while also gaining a strong foundation for advanced study and professional advancement in aging services, healthcare management, social services, public health, and related fields.