Breadcrumb
How to Apply
Prepare for meaningful work supporting older adults and the communities that care for them.
Designed for working professionals, caregivers, and students, this flexible program allows you to build practical expertise in aging without stepping away from your existing responsibilities.
Who should apply
You may be a good fit for this program if you are:
- Working in an Area Agency on Aging, In-Home Supportive Services, Adult Protective Services, tribal elder services, a senior center, an adult day program, hospice, or a rural health clinic—and ready to grow in your role.
- Caring for an aging family member and wanting to better understand the systems, choices, and resources involved.
- Changing careers or returning to school and looking for meaningful, needed work in your community.
- A professional in social services, public health, nursing, recreation, a faith community, or public service who wants to specialize in aging.
- A current or former community college student looking for a focused, practical credential and a pathway toward a bachelor’s degree.
Many gerontology students are rooted where they are by work, family, or caregiving. This program was built so that you do not have to choose between your responsibilities and your education.
Eligibility and prerequisites: A high school diploma or equivalent is required. You do not need prior coursework in gerontology to begin. GERO 301 is the program’s gateway course, and GERO 305 is open to students from any major.
Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency by examination (TOEFL). This requirement is waived for applicants who have completed college-level English composition with a grade of C or better at a regionally accredited U.S. institution, or who hold a degree from such an institution.
Application steps
- Connect with us. Request information or schedule a conversation with an advisor. We are glad to answer questions and help you decide whether the program is right for you.
- Choose your starting point. Decide whether to begin with the Certificate in Gerontology or to plan for the Advanced Certificate in Gerontology Leadership. You can begin with the certificate and decide later.
- Complete the application. Submit your application through Cal Poly Humboldt College of Extended Education.
- Submit any required documents.
- Plan your first courses. Once admitted, you will work with an advisor to register for GERO 301 and build a completion plan that fits your life.
Important dates
- October 1, 2026: Applications open for the Fall 2027 certificate cohort.
- March 1, 2027: Priority application deadline.
- Fall 2027: Planned launch of the Certificate of Study in Gerontology and the Advanced Certificate of Study in Gerontology Leadership, pending approval by the university's Integrated Curriculum Committee.
- Fall 2029: Planned launch of the Bachelor of Professional Studies in Gerontology, pending approval by the California State University Chancellor's Office and the university's Integrated Curriculum Committee.
We encourage you to apply by the priority deadline so there is time to plan your courses and prepare for your first term.
Guidance along the way
Returning to school, or starting for the first time, can feel like a big step, especially when you are already carrying a lot. You will not be doing this alone. An advisor will help you think through your schedule, your goals, and the questions that matter to you.
If you are unsure whether now is the right time, reach out anyway. A conversation can help you see the path more clearly.