Gerontology Careers - USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology Admissions
Source: https://gero.usc.edu/admissions/gerontology-careers
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:09
Gerontology Careers - USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology Admissions
Close Search
Gerontology Careers
|
Home
>
Gerontology Careers
Gerontology career prospects have exploded in recent years
People around the globe are living longer than ever, creating unprecedented demographic shifts toward an aging population. With more growth on the horizon, a USC Leonard Davis education positions you for success in a wide array of fields.
Opportunities in An Aging World
The field of gerontology offers limitless career choices now and in the future. Here’s why:
1/5
By 2040, 1 in 5 Americans will be over 65.
72 million
America has 72 million Baby Boomers, and the oldest are well into their 70s. Many have parents in their 80s, 90s, and beyond.
2.1 billion
In 2050, about 2.1 billion people worldwide will be over 60. That’s double the number of people in this age group in 2017.
High-Growth Industry
An aging population needs products and services at a greater scale than ever, creating major opportunities in the public and private sectors. Consider that:
The U.S. Department of Labor identifies careers in aging as a high-growth area over the next decade.
Someone turning 65 today has almost a 70% chance of needing long-term care services and supports in their remaining years.
Americans spend more than $163 billion each year on nursing care facilities and continuing care retirement communities.
Adults ages 65 and older spend 96% of their available income on goods and services, vs. 78% for those ages 25-64. This large consumer group seeks products and services ranging from food and entertainment to healthcare and transportation.
“Commercial businesses are unprepared to meet the needs of aging consumers.” (
Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition
Study)
Researchers identified gaps in available products and services compared to ones that older consumers need and want.
Career Paths for a Gerontology Degree
An aging population creates a ripple effect of opportunity in every sector of the economy. Our alumni go on to pursue careers in these sectors and many more:
Law and academia
Science, medicine, healthcare, mental health and pharmaceuticals
Finance, insurance and retirement planning
Local, state and federal government
Business, management, consulting, technology and entrepreneurship
Advocacy, nonprofits, social services, community-based and faith-based organizations
Marketing and branding
Housing, urban planning and transportation
How USC Leonard Davis Prepares You to Succeed
A degree from the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology opens many doors. We’ve built a world-class reputation with the nation’s largest selection of gerontology degree programs, renowned professors and a large, close-knit alumni network.
A Global Alumni Network
More than 3,000 of our alumni work at the world’s premier organizations. They serve in leadership roles in places ranging from the U.S. federal government and World Health Organization to prestigious think tanks. Many have found rewarding niches in private businesses, nonprofit programs and foundations. Whatever professional paths our graduates take, a USC Leonard Davis degree provides a distinct advantage.
Where Our Graduates Work
Here’s a sampling of the hundreds of organizations where our graduates have landed.
AARP, Alzheimer’s Association, Administration for Community Living, National Institute on Aging
Kaiser Permanente, Blue Cross/Blue Shield
Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Generator Ventures
National Association of Area Agencies on Aging, Veterans Administration
World Health Organization, Social Security Administration, National Bureau of Economic Research
Silverado Senior Living, Front Porch Senior Living, Welltower
Harvard University; Universities of California; University of Kansas; Syracuse University; Pennsylvania State University; University of Iowa
Success in our Alumni Network
Learn more
Career Opportunities
Consumers over 50 account for half of U.S. spending.
They are also responsible for more spending growth over the past decade than any other generation.
3,000+ Alumni
making a global impact in health care, policy and senior living
Reputation Matters
Our alumni work at the world’s premier organizations.
A Career that Keeps You Curious
Looking for a career that keeps you on your toes? Gerontology is always evolving into new subspecialties and areas of inquiry to keep pace with our rapidly changing world. For example:
Gerontechnology
combines the study of gerontology and technology.
The
molecular biology of aging
poses challenging questions that are ripe for research.
Senior housing trends
are generating significant buzz and market activity.
“
“As an attorney, I deal with aging-related issues on a daily basis. From contacts to litigation, I am constantly impressed by the applicability of my gerontology education to the matters I handle.”
Kim M. Bowman Jr.
M.A. Gerontology
“
“You can always treat pneumonia with a simple antibiotic regimen, but the important questions are how will patients afford the medication, whether they are able to take it by themselves or remember to take it at all, and how will they make it to follow up appointments. My studies in gerontology made me aware of these issues before I even started medical school.”
Dr. Karlton Wong
Dr. Wong holds a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences and Gerontology and a Master of Science in Gerontology
“
The MAG program at USC Leonard Davis explores gerontology through a sophisticated, multidisciplinary approach. Your classes integrate research and concepts from different fields, providing connections and context as you pursue academic and career goals.
Cynthia Hutchins
MAG graduate and director of financial gerontology for wealth management company Merrill Lynch
“
“The MASM program not only solidified my career opportunities, it also expanded my horizons in terms of personal well-being, appreciation of life’s stages and understanding of older adults. I thoroughly enjoyed the many walks of life my classmates brought to the program.”
Erik Doan
MAASM graduate and program director of Family Adult Day Health Care in Lomita, California
“
“Gerontology is the new hybrid career... If you walk out your front door and look around, you will see older people everywhere. There is such a need for people educated in aging that the career opportunities are endless.”
Jolene Fassbinder
MSG graduate and program officer for the Archstone Foundation, which provides grants for innovative projects addressing the needs of older adults
Stories and Spotlights
Educating generations of leaders in aging
Read more stories
Corrine Jones, MAG ’18
After retiring early from a career with AT&T, Corinne Jones went back to school to earn a bachelor’s degree in political science. She remembers it was a class on elder law where she got her first taste of gerontology.
Sarah Lamontagne, MAASM ’19
Sarah Lamontagne had a busy job at a Rhode Island nonprofit that helps adults age in place, remaining in their homes and communities as they grow older. But that didn’t stop her from pursuing a master’s degree from the USC Leonard Davis School in Gerontology.
Sahar Edalati, MS ’13
Today’s senior living market is marked by two extremes, says Sahar Edalati MS ’13, executive director of
Watermark Retirement Communities
in Brooklyn Heights, New York.
Ready to join us?
Our community of ambitious students, eminent faculty and renowned alumni is waiting for you to join us. Our advisory team is ready to answer all your questions. Let’s continue the conversation.
Request Information
Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
3715 McClintock Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90089
(213) 740-5156
|
ldsgero@usc.edu
Quick Links
Why USC Leonard Davis
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
Request Information
Contact Us
Privacy Notice
Notice of Non-Discrimination
Digital Accessibility
© 2026 USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology Admissions.
twitter
facebook
linkedin
youtube
instagram
Close Menu
Admission
Why USC Leonard Davis
About the School
Overview
What is Gerontology?
Gerontology Careers
Faculty
Research
News
The USC Leonard Davis Student Experience
Student Life
Student & Alumni Stories
Student Organizations
Study Abroad
Internships
USC Student Affairs
Academics
Programs
Undergraduate Programs
Master’s Programs
Specialized Master’s Programs
Graduate Certificate in Gerontology
PhD Programs
Doctorate of Longevity Arts and Sciences
Online Education
Professional Education
Curricula and Resources
Undergraduate Curriculum
Graduate Curriculum
Dual Degree Curriculum
Graduate Certificate Curriculum
PhD Curriculum
Doctorate of Longevity Arts and Sciences Curriculum
Course Catalogue
Program Objectives
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Apply
Overview
International Applicants
Request Information
Information Sessions
Office Hours
Newly Admitted
Next Steps
Overview
Undergraduate New Admits
Graduate New Admits
Academic Resources
Course Catalogue
Schedule of Classes
Academic Calendar
Academic Conduct
Gerontology Resources
Gerontology Library Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Tuition and Aid
Events
Event Calendar
Request Information
Contact Us
Back to main site
twitter
facebook
linkedin
youtube
instagram
Close Search
Gerontology Careers
|
Home
>
Gerontology Careers
Gerontology career prospects have exploded in recent years
People around the globe are living longer than ever, creating unprecedented demographic shifts toward an aging population. With more growth on the horizon, a USC Leonard Davis education positions you for success in a wide array of fields.
Opportunities in An Aging World
The field of gerontology offers limitless career choices now and in the future. Here’s why:
1/5
By 2040, 1 in 5 Americans will be over 65.
72 million
America has 72 million Baby Boomers, and the oldest are well into their 70s. Many have parents in their 80s, 90s, and beyond.
2.1 billion
In 2050, about 2.1 billion people worldwide will be over 60. That’s double the number of people in this age group in 2017.
High-Growth Industry
An aging population needs products and services at a greater scale than ever, creating major opportunities in the public and private sectors. Consider that:
The U.S. Department of Labor identifies careers in aging as a high-growth area over the next decade.
Someone turning 65 today has almost a 70% chance of needing long-term care services and supports in their remaining years.
Americans spend more than $163 billion each year on nursing care facilities and continuing care retirement communities.
Adults ages 65 and older spend 96% of their available income on goods and services, vs. 78% for those ages 25-64. This large consumer group seeks products and services ranging from food and entertainment to healthcare and transportation.
“Commercial businesses are unprepared to meet the needs of aging consumers.” (
Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition
Study)
Researchers identified gaps in available products and services compared to ones that older consumers need and want.
Career Paths for a Gerontology Degree
An aging population creates a ripple effect of opportunity in every sector of the economy. Our alumni go on to pursue careers in these sectors and many more:
Law and academia
Science, medicine, healthcare, mental health and pharmaceuticals
Finance, insurance and retirement planning
Local, state and federal government
Business, management, consulting, technology and entrepreneurship
Advocacy, nonprofits, social services, community-based and faith-based organizations
Marketing and branding
Housing, urban planning and transportation
How USC Leonard Davis Prepares You to Succeed
A degree from the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology opens many doors. We’ve built a world-class reputation with the nation’s largest selection of gerontology degree programs, renowned professors and a large, close-knit alumni network.
A Global Alumni Network
More than 3,000 of our alumni work at the world’s premier organizations. They serve in leadership roles in places ranging from the U.S. federal government and World Health Organization to prestigious think tanks. Many have found rewarding niches in private businesses, nonprofit programs and foundations. Whatever professional paths our graduates take, a USC Leonard Davis degree provides a distinct advantage.
Where Our Graduates Work
Here’s a sampling of the hundreds of organizations where our graduates have landed.
AARP, Alzheimer’s Association, Administration for Community Living, National Institute on Aging
Kaiser Permanente, Blue Cross/Blue Shield
Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Generator Ventures
National Association of Area Agencies on Aging, Veterans Administration
World Health Organization, Social Security Administration, National Bureau of Economic Research
Silverado Senior Living, Front Porch Senior Living, Welltower
Harvard University; Universities of California; University of Kansas; Syracuse University; Pennsylvania State University; University of Iowa
Success in our Alumni Network
Learn more
Career Opportunities
Consumers over 50 account for half of U.S. spending.
They are also responsible for more spending growth over the past decade than any other generation.
3,000+ Alumni
making a global impact in health care, policy and senior living
Reputation Matters
Our alumni work at the world’s premier organizations.
A Career that Keeps You Curious
Looking for a career that keeps you on your toes? Gerontology is always evolving into new subspecialties and areas of inquiry to keep pace with our rapidly changing world. For example:
Gerontechnology
combines the study of gerontology and technology.
The
molecular biology of aging
poses challenging questions that are ripe for research.
Senior housing trends
are generating significant buzz and market activity.
“
“As an attorney, I deal with aging-related issues on a daily basis. From contacts to litigation, I am constantly impressed by the applicability of my gerontology education to the matters I handle.”
Kim M. Bowman Jr.
M.A. Gerontology
“
“You can always treat pneumonia with a simple antibiotic regimen, but the important questions are how will patients afford the medication, whether they are able to take it by themselves or remember to take it at all, and how will they make it to follow up appointments. My studies in gerontology made me aware of these issues before I even started medical school.”
Dr. Karlton Wong
Dr. Wong holds a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences and Gerontology and a Master of Science in Gerontology
“
The MAG program at USC Leonard Davis explores gerontology through a sophisticated, multidisciplinary approach. Your classes integrate research and concepts from different fields, providing connections and context as you pursue academic and career goals.
Cynthia Hutchins
MAG graduate and director of financial gerontology for wealth management company Merrill Lynch
“
“The MASM program not only solidified my career opportunities, it also expanded my horizons in terms of personal well-being, appreciation of life’s stages and understanding of older adults. I thoroughly enjoyed the many walks of life my classmates brought to the program.”
Erik Doan
MAASM graduate and program director of Family Adult Day Health Care in Lomita, California
“
“Gerontology is the new hybrid career... If you walk out your front door and look around, you will see older people everywhere. There is such a need for people educated in aging that the career opportunities are endless.”
Jolene Fassbinder
MSG graduate and program officer for the Archstone Foundation, which provides grants for innovative projects addressing the needs of older adults
Stories and Spotlights
Educating generations of leaders in aging
Read more stories
Corrine Jones, MAG ’18
After retiring early from a career with AT&T, Corinne Jones went back to school to earn a bachelor’s degree in political science. She remembers it was a class on elder law where she got her first taste of gerontology.
Sarah Lamontagne, MAASM ’19
Sarah Lamontagne had a busy job at a Rhode Island nonprofit that helps adults age in place, remaining in their homes and communities as they grow older. But that didn’t stop her from pursuing a master’s degree from the USC Leonard Davis School in Gerontology.
Sahar Edalati, MS ’13
Today’s senior living market is marked by two extremes, says Sahar Edalati MS ’13, executive director of
Watermark Retirement Communities
in Brooklyn Heights, New York.
Ready to join us?
Our community of ambitious students, eminent faculty and renowned alumni is waiting for you to join us. Our advisory team is ready to answer all your questions. Let’s continue the conversation.
Request Information
Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
3715 McClintock Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90089
(213) 740-5156
|
ldsgero@usc.edu
Quick Links
Why USC Leonard Davis
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
Request Information
Contact Us
Privacy Notice
Notice of Non-Discrimination
Digital Accessibility
© 2026 USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology Admissions.
youtube
Close Menu
Admission
Why USC Leonard Davis
About the School
Overview
What is Gerontology?
Gerontology Careers
Faculty
Research
News
The USC Leonard Davis Student Experience
Student Life
Student & Alumni Stories
Student Organizations
Study Abroad
Internships
USC Student Affairs
Academics
Programs
Undergraduate Programs
Master’s Programs
Specialized Master’s Programs
Graduate Certificate in Gerontology
PhD Programs
Doctorate of Longevity Arts and Sciences
Online Education
Professional Education
Curricula and Resources
Undergraduate Curriculum
Graduate Curriculum
Dual Degree Curriculum
Graduate Certificate Curriculum
PhD Curriculum
Doctorate of Longevity Arts and Sciences Curriculum
Course Catalogue
Program Objectives
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Apply
Overview
International Applicants
Request Information
Information Sessions
Office Hours
Newly Admitted
Next Steps
Overview
Undergraduate New Admits
Graduate New Admits
Academic Resources
Course Catalogue
Schedule of Classes
Academic Calendar
Academic Conduct
Gerontology Resources
Gerontology Library Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Tuition and Aid
Events
Event Calendar
Request Information
Contact Us
Back to main site
youtube