Course Descriptions
GSC101 - Introduction to Gerontology
An introduction to the study of the aging processes and individuals as they grow from middle age through later life. The course includes: the examination of physical, mental, and social changes in people as they age; the investigation of the changes in society resulting from an aging population; and the application of gerontological knowledge to policies and programs. PREREQUISITE(S): None
GSC204 - Exploring the Continuum of Care for Elders
The purpose of this course is to review the continuum of care of elders. Included will be a review of the health care plans, discharge plans, and case management needs of the elderly. PREREQUISITE(S): None
GSC205 - Caregiving for an Aging Population
As our population ages, the issue of caregiving becomes increasingly important. This mini-course examines three types of caregiving: in the home, in an institution, and by developing supportive networks. Special consideration of how to help or counsel those facing the nursing home decision, including what to look for in a nursing home placement. PREREQUISITE(S): None
GSC206 - Crisis Intervention: An Interdisciplinary Approach
An examination of the kinds of crises experienced by older adults, suicidality in the older population, and interventions for the helping professional. PREREQUISITE(S): None
GSC207 - HIV/AIDS and Older Adults
The unique issues and needs of older adults living with HIV/AIDS and other older persons who are directly affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic, including cultural factors, health/medical complications, risk factors, education, and service provision. PREREQUISITE(S): None
GSC220 - The Politics of Aging
This class addresses how public policies and laws are made, the role of influential groups and how money given to candidates influences policies affecting senior citizens, and the growing antagonism between older and younger age groups. PREREQUISITE(S): None
GSC340 - The Aging Experience
An overview course that provides an introduction to the field of adult development in the later years. Topics include the psychology of aging, images of aging in literature and the media, ethnicity and aging, relationships with family and friends, the workplace and community, and the self, throughout the maturation process. Guest speakers, multimedia materials, and simulation activities are used to discuss the issues and opportunities facing individuals as our population ages. PREREQUISITE(S): None
GSC345 - Contributors to Healthy Aging
The theoretical perspectives inherent in wellness models of aging will be examined. These perspectives include: theories of aging, models of intentional change, theories of adult learning, and theories of motivation and adaptation. In addition, students will explore several biomedical and psychosocial contributors to healthy aging. PREREQUISITE(S): GSC340, GSC352
GSC346 - Psychology of Aging
Life cycle studies have recently focused on the middle and older years of the life span. These studies have revealed that the declines in aging aren't as universal, precipitous, nor inevitable as previously thought; indeed, each decade in middle years has its theme and task. It has also been found that many of the changes we associate with old age actually begin during earlier periods of life. The focus in this course is on the origin and nature of these individual changes and phases. PREREQUISITE(S): PSY101
GSC350 - Psychology of Death and Dying
This course will focus on the many different aspects of death and dying. Some of the topics include: grief and bereavement, the hospice philosophy, children and death and dying, and AIDS. This course is appropriate for psychology and sociology majors, nurses and nursing students, gerontology students, and anyone interested in exploring this most fascinating subject. PREREQUISITE(S): PSY101
GSC352 - Health Aspects of Aging
The process of aging will be studied from a physical point of view. Healthy vs. unhealthy lifestyles will be presented including issues in nutrition, substance use and abuse, sexuality, safety, stress, and mental health. Specific disabilities connected with the aging process will be covered. PREREQUISITE(S): None
GSC360 - Systems and Networks
This course provides students with a background in models and theories of human service development. The inter-relationship support for older people and their surrounding communities (local, state, and federal) are examined, with a special focus on specific systems and networks supporting the human development field in Massachusetts and Connecticut. PREREQUISITE(S): None
GSC365 - Legal Issues and Public Policy
This course covers legal and policy issues in areas that affect the elderly, particularly in the areas of housing, health care, taxes, and social security. PREREQUISITE(S): None
GSC370 - Current Issues in Gerontology
This course will explore several major, current issues in gerontology. Students will examine various research methodologies in human development, learn how to conduct a formal literature search using the major sources for gerontology research papers, and be able to demonstrate the ability to research a current topic in gerontology. PREREQUISITE(S): GSC340, GSC352
GSC390 - Field Work in Human Services
This course provides the student with an opportunity to integrate the theory and practice of their human service field and gain first-hand experience in a human service setting. Students propose a project prior to the beginning of the class and discuss it at the first class. They will then meet every other week with the fieldwork instructor to discuss their experience and issues related to their project. PREREQUISITE(S): 12 credits in the major
Social