Gerontology St. Thomas University

Overview

The Gerontology programme at St. Thomas University provides an in-depth exploration of how society defines the aging process and how individuals experience their later years. This multidisciplinary course integrates insights from sociology, psychology, and gender studies to foster a holistic understanding of human development and self-fulfilment.

Students benefit from a curriculum that challenges ageism and encourages the development of intergenerational bridges. The department focuses on the progression of life from multiple perspectives, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to understand the complexities of aging in modern society through rigorous academic inquiry and practical engagement.

Why Gerontology at St. Thomas University?

St. Thomas University hosts one of only two stand-alone programmes of this kind in Atlantic Canada, offering a unique academic environment for those interested in the study of aging. The institution prides itself on small, engaging classes that prioritise personal interaction, discussion, and debate between students and expert faculty members.

All lectures and seminars are delivered directly by professors rather than teaching assistants, ensuring high-quality instruction from specialists in dementia, mental health, and narrative gerontology. The university is also home to the Third Age Centre, a non-profit organisation that empowers older adults and provides students with opportunities to participate in community-based projects.

The presence of the Chair in Community Health and Aging further strengthens the department, offering students access to leading research and contemporary practices in the field. Through the university’s dedicated internship programme, students can gain professional experience with local organisations such as Hospice Fredericton and various care centres.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 20322 per year
• National fee: CAD 8869 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Aging and Health
• Aging and Spirituality
• Counselling Older Adults
• Death and Dying in Later Life
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Women’s Studies and Gender Studies

Careers with Gerontology

Graduates of this programme develop essential skills in critical thinking, interpersonal relations, and problem-solving, which are highly valued across the healthcare and social service sectors. The ability to analyse situations from diverse perspectives prepares students for professional roles that involve supporting and advocating for older populations.

Common career paths for graduates include roles in social work, counselling, and recreational or occupational therapy. Many alumni also find rewarding opportunities within long-term care facilities, community agencies, and public policy development, where they can influence the delivery of services for the elderly.

Furthermore, the programme provides a strong foundation for those interested in entrepreneurship within the silver economy or pursuing further academic research. By challenging societal stereotypes regarding age, graduates are positioned to lead improvements in how communities support their aging members across various industries.