In this program, we will take an interdisciplinary approach to aging. We will focus on the psychological and biological changes that accompany aging. You’ll engage in seminars, workshops, lectures, and collaborative work as a part of this program.
Our study of the psychology of aging will explore physical, cognitive, and social development during adulthood and the end of life. Using a lifespan perspective, we will consider the stability and change (gains and losses) across these domains. For example, although older adults show declines in prospective memory, or remembering to do something in the future, they perform similarly on recognition tasks as young adults do, and they perform better than young adults on tasks where they have expertise. We will also consider the social context, including social interactions with family and friends, retirement, and perceptions of older adults.
Our study of human biology will explore the general changes in human biology and physiology that accompany aging. We will review current theories of aging and examine what is known about the biological mechanisms. We will focus on the nervous, endocrine, and digestive systems to explore the complex interplay of molecules, cells, tissues and organs of the human body associated with aging. We will look at diseases that become more prevalent with age and explore what is known about their causes and treatments, as well as how current life decisions can impact future health outcomes.
The 16-credit option will also explore the musculoskeleton system and how it responds to use and aging in depth. We will learn all the bones and the major muscles of the human body through lectures, workshops and a weekly yoga/anatomy session. We will also focus on writing a research paper on a biological aspect of aging of particular interest to you. You will have the opportunity to share your research with others at the end of the quarter. In addition to the 12-credit class schedule, this option includes class on Fridays.
Anticipated Credit Equivalencies (16 credits)
8 - Psychology of Adult Development
4 – Biology of Aging
4 – Introduction to Musculoskeletal Anatomy
Anticipated Credit Equivalencies (12 credits)
8 - Psychology of Adult Development
4 – Biology of Aging
Registration
Academic Details
psychology, social work, human services, working with older adults, living one's life fully
Schedule
Revisions
| Date | Revision |
|---|---|
| 2025-10-21 | There are now 16-credit and 12-credit options for this program; program description and anticipated credit equivalencies updated. |