What is Gerontology? - USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
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Archived: 2026-04-23 17:09
What is Gerontology? - USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
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What is Gerontology?
Home
»
What is Gerontology?
We are Gerontologists,
and Life is Our Work
Gerontology is the study of the biological, psychological and sociological aspects of
human development and the intricacies of aging across the lifespan. The processes of aging are both unique and universal, relevant to every person, company, industry and community.
By investigating aging-related issues and pursuing innovation, gerontologists at the USC Leonard Davis School help people live healthier, happier lives within more welcoming, accessible communities.
Gerontologists have never been in greater demand, and our work has never been more important.
Calling All Leaders
People around the globe are living longer than ever before, creating an unprecedented demographic shift toward an older population. By 2040, 1 in 5 Americans will be over age 65. In 2050, about 1.6 billion people worldwide will fall in that age bracket.
As global life expectancy increases, so does our awareness of its consequences and the social, economic and political challenges of aging. Every industry, workplace and community needs leaders who understand the intricacies of aging processes and can navigate the path forward.
At USC Leonard Davis, you gain the knowledge and experience to inspire, serve and lead wherever your career takes you.
1 in 5
Americans will be over age 65 by 2040.
What Do Gerontologists Do?
Aging impacts every sector of our economy, from healthcare and housing, to social services and transportation…and many more. That’s why you’ll find gerontologists serving in a wide variety of industries, organizations and roles.
Our alumni excel in dozens of fields, such as business, law, government, academia, nonprofits and social services. Learn more about their unique paths and
gerontology careers
.
How Do Gerontologists Change the World?
Gerontologists embrace a multidisciplinary approach to the study of aging, seeing issues and opportunities through many lenses. Here are a few ways that gerontologists impact the world:
Biological
Tackling the biological mysteries of development and aging
Unlocking the secrets of the cellular aging process
Discovering genetic and physiological roots of disease
Investigating potential solutions to delay processes of aging
Medical
Discovering new therapies for treatment and potential cures
Delivering scientific and health solutions to aging populations
Expanding access to health services for those in need
Creating cutting-edge technology to heal age-related illnesses, including Alzheimer’s, diabetes and heart disease
Psychological
Exploring the creativity and humanity unique to every mind at every age
Supporting older adults in fostering a sense of purpose and meaning in their lives
Understanding how emotion and cognition change across the lifespan
Researching and developing therapies to treat memory-related diseases, such as Alzheimer’s
Finding ways to preserve the stories of those who struggle to remember
Honoring the whole person with individualized attention and care
Social
Focusing on older adults’ strengths and wisdom rather than losses and frailties
Recognizing the sacrifices and struggles of caregivers and working to ease their burden
Delivering dignity and facilitating difficult transitions
Combating ageism to underscore the contributions that older adults bring to society
Policy
Crusading for equality through advocacy
Creating policy and legislation that improves health and well-being
Evaluating the efficacy of programs and policies
Speaking for those who may not always be heard
Gerontology vs. Geriatrics:
What’s the Difference?
People sometimes use the terms gerontology and geriatrics interchangeably, but they mean different things. Gerontology is a broad, multidisciplinary field that investigates a variety of issues around aging throughout the human lifespan. Geriatrics is a medical specialty focusing on caring for the unique health needs of older adults.
What Does a Geriatrician Do?
Physicians, nurses and other health professionals can specialize in geriatrics. Geriatricians are doctors with a deep understanding of the aging process, including preventing, diagnosing and treating illness in older adults.
They practice in many different settings, from visiting patients in their homes to working in long-term care environments, hospitals and private practice clinics. Geriatricians often collaborate with other doctors, bringing their unique training and skillset to deliver the best care for patients.
Should I Study Gerontology to Become a Geriatrician?
Studying gerontology provides a solid foundation for a career in geriatrics. For instance, aspiring geriatricians might earn a gerontology degree before attending medical school.
A specialized education at USC Leonard Davis introduces you to many facets of aging, providing a holistic perspective on patients’ needs. That background gives you a competitive edge in the next phase of your career.
Promoting Healthy Aging
Aging is more than a progression on a timeline — it’s a lifelong pursuit of mental, physical and social growth. Your training at USC Leonard Davis prepares you to help an aging population thrive as active, involved members of the community. Become an expert on the human lifespan and be a leader in the aging revolution with a gerontology degree from USC Leonard Davis.
“
The USC Leonard Davis School is the best of both worlds: an intimate school in a world-class research university. With such a rapidly aging population, this field is exploding!
Cameron Chalfant
Alumnus, Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Aging Program Vice President, CBRE
“
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
“
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.
Karlton Wong
MSG graduate, MD at Providence Roy and Patricia Disney Family Cancer Center and Adjunct Lecturer at the USC Leonard Davis School
Discover our Gerontology Programs
Explore our
gerontology programs
, or
contact us
to learn more about the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology.
Learn about our programs
Visit Us
Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
3715 McClintock Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90089
Privacy Notice
Notice of Non-Discrimination
Digital Accessibility
Contact Us
(213)740-5156
ldsgero@usc.edu
Support Us
How to Give
ABOUT
Our School
History
What is Gerontology?
Our Expertise
Faculty & Staff Portal
Contact Us
NEWS
Newsroom
Honors and Awards
Publications
Resources for Journalists
Aging is Happening Newsletter
PROGRAMS
Undergraduate Programs
Master’s Programs
Certificate Programs
PhD Programs
Professional Education
CONNECT
Facebook
LinkedIn
TikTok
Twitter / X
YouTube
Instagram
Podcast
© 2026 USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology.
Close Menu
About
About Us
Our mission to promote healthy aging for all people, communities and societies is more vital than ever.
Our School
Overview
History
Leadership
Partnerships
Honors and Awards
Cultural Affairs
Board of Councilors
Our Field
Overview
What is Gerontology?
Gerontology Careers
Our Gerontology Expertise
Our Impact
Our Building
Overview
Andrus Gerontology Center
Sophie Davis Art Gallery
Facilities
School Resources
Administrative Staff
Gerontology Directory
Employee Resources
Faculty & Staff Portal
Jobs at USC Leonard Davis
Contact Us
Admission
Admission
Our students come from around the world and from many walks of life, and they’re all here for unique, important reasons.
Overview
Undergraduate Applicants
Master’s Applicants
PhD Applicants
Graduate Certificate Applicants
Doctorate of Longevity Arts and Sciences Applicants
International Applicants
Online Education
Resources
Request Information
How to Apply
Newly Admitted
Tuition and Financial Aid
Frequently Asked Questions
Office Hours
Academics
Academics
At the USC Leonard Davis School, you can earn an undergraduate gerontology degree, an accelerated five-year undergraduate or graduate degree program, a doctoral degree, or a minor in aging.
Undergraduate Programs
Human Development and Aging (BS)
Lifespan Health (BS)
Minor in Gerontology: Individuals, Societies, and Aging
Minor in Gerontology: Science, Health, and Aging
Minor in Geroscience
Master’s Programs
Aging Services Management (MA)
Applied Technology and Aging (MS)
Gerontology (MS)
Gerontology (MA)
Long Term Care Administration (MA)
Medical Gerontology (MA)
Senior Living Hospitality (MA)
Aging Biology (MS)
Specialized Master’s Programs
–
Master’s Programs in Nutrition
Foodservice Management and Dietetics (MA)
Nutrition, Healthspan and Longevity (MS)
Lifespan, Nutrition and Dietetics (MS)
Nutritional Science (MS)
Additional Programs
Graduate Certificate in Gerontology
Doctorate of Longevity Arts and Sciences
Professional Education
–
PhD Programs
PhD in Gerontology
PhD in Geroscience
Academic Resources
Academic Advisement
Career Development
Advisement FAQs
Online Education
Students
Students
Students of the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology share a deep compassion, an inspiring enthusiasm and a vision of an improved quality of life for older adults.
Overview
Undergraduate and Graduate Students
PhD Students
Internships
MSNHL Supervised Practice
Research Opportunities
Academic Conduct
Student Life
Student Organizations
Study Abroad
Alumni Stories
Career Development
Finding Support
Student Resources
Resources Overview
Student Handbooks
Course Catalogue
Schedule of Classes
Academic Calendar
USC Student Affairs
USC Student Health Center
Faculty
Research
Research Overview
Institutes and Centers
Projects and Initiatives
Cores
Multidisciplinary Colloquium Series
Research Opportunities
Research Funding Awards
Research Events
News & Events
News
Event Calendar
Podcast
Publications
Resources for Journalists
Stay Connected
Social Media
Videos
Alumni
Stay Connected
USC FightOnline
Alumni Stories
Support the USC Leonard Davis School
Giving
Giving Overview
Why Give
How to Give
Giving Priorities
Join the Dean’s Circle
Contact the Development Office
More
Jobs at USC Leonard Davis
Faculty & Staff Portal
Vitality Magazine
twitter
facebook
linkedin
youtube
rss
instagram
spotify
tiktok
Close Search
What is Gerontology?
Home
»
What is Gerontology?
We are Gerontologists,
and Life is Our Work
Gerontology is the study of the biological, psychological and sociological aspects of
human development and the intricacies of aging across the lifespan. The processes of aging are both unique and universal, relevant to every person, company, industry and community.
By investigating aging-related issues and pursuing innovation, gerontologists at the USC Leonard Davis School help people live healthier, happier lives within more welcoming, accessible communities.
Gerontologists have never been in greater demand, and our work has never been more important.
Calling All Leaders
People around the globe are living longer than ever before, creating an unprecedented demographic shift toward an older population. By 2040, 1 in 5 Americans will be over age 65. In 2050, about 1.6 billion people worldwide will fall in that age bracket.
As global life expectancy increases, so does our awareness of its consequences and the social, economic and political challenges of aging. Every industry, workplace and community needs leaders who understand the intricacies of aging processes and can navigate the path forward.
At USC Leonard Davis, you gain the knowledge and experience to inspire, serve and lead wherever your career takes you.
1 in 5
Americans will be over age 65 by 2040.
What Do Gerontologists Do?
Aging impacts every sector of our economy, from healthcare and housing, to social services and transportation…and many more. That’s why you’ll find gerontologists serving in a wide variety of industries, organizations and roles.
Our alumni excel in dozens of fields, such as business, law, government, academia, nonprofits and social services. Learn more about their unique paths and
gerontology careers
.
How Do Gerontologists Change the World?
Gerontologists embrace a multidisciplinary approach to the study of aging, seeing issues and opportunities through many lenses. Here are a few ways that gerontologists impact the world:
Biological
Tackling the biological mysteries of development and aging
Unlocking the secrets of the cellular aging process
Discovering genetic and physiological roots of disease
Investigating potential solutions to delay processes of aging
Medical
Discovering new therapies for treatment and potential cures
Delivering scientific and health solutions to aging populations
Expanding access to health services for those in need
Creating cutting-edge technology to heal age-related illnesses, including Alzheimer’s, diabetes and heart disease
Psychological
Exploring the creativity and humanity unique to every mind at every age
Supporting older adults in fostering a sense of purpose and meaning in their lives
Understanding how emotion and cognition change across the lifespan
Researching and developing therapies to treat memory-related diseases, such as Alzheimer’s
Finding ways to preserve the stories of those who struggle to remember
Honoring the whole person with individualized attention and care
Social
Focusing on older adults’ strengths and wisdom rather than losses and frailties
Recognizing the sacrifices and struggles of caregivers and working to ease their burden
Delivering dignity and facilitating difficult transitions
Combating ageism to underscore the contributions that older adults bring to society
Policy
Crusading for equality through advocacy
Creating policy and legislation that improves health and well-being
Evaluating the efficacy of programs and policies
Speaking for those who may not always be heard
Gerontology vs. Geriatrics:
What’s the Difference?
People sometimes use the terms gerontology and geriatrics interchangeably, but they mean different things. Gerontology is a broad, multidisciplinary field that investigates a variety of issues around aging throughout the human lifespan. Geriatrics is a medical specialty focusing on caring for the unique health needs of older adults.
What Does a Geriatrician Do?
Physicians, nurses and other health professionals can specialize in geriatrics. Geriatricians are doctors with a deep understanding of the aging process, including preventing, diagnosing and treating illness in older adults.
They practice in many different settings, from visiting patients in their homes to working in long-term care environments, hospitals and private practice clinics. Geriatricians often collaborate with other doctors, bringing their unique training and skillset to deliver the best care for patients.
Should I Study Gerontology to Become a Geriatrician?
Studying gerontology provides a solid foundation for a career in geriatrics. For instance, aspiring geriatricians might earn a gerontology degree before attending medical school.
A specialized education at USC Leonard Davis introduces you to many facets of aging, providing a holistic perspective on patients’ needs. That background gives you a competitive edge in the next phase of your career.
Promoting Healthy Aging
Aging is more than a progression on a timeline — it’s a lifelong pursuit of mental, physical and social growth. Your training at USC Leonard Davis prepares you to help an aging population thrive as active, involved members of the community. Become an expert on the human lifespan and be a leader in the aging revolution with a gerontology degree from USC Leonard Davis.
“
The USC Leonard Davis School is the best of both worlds: an intimate school in a world-class research university. With such a rapidly aging population, this field is exploding!
Cameron Chalfant
Alumnus, Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Aging Program Vice President, CBRE
“
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
“
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.
Karlton Wong
MSG graduate, MD at Providence Roy and Patricia Disney Family Cancer Center and Adjunct Lecturer at the USC Leonard Davis School
Discover our Gerontology Programs
Explore our
gerontology programs
, or
contact us
to learn more about the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology.
Learn about our programs
Visit Us
Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
3715 McClintock Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90089
Privacy Notice
Notice of Non-Discrimination
Digital Accessibility
Contact Us
(213)740-5156
ldsgero@usc.edu
Support Us
How to Give
ABOUT
Our School
History
What is Gerontology?
Our Expertise
Faculty & Staff Portal
Contact Us
NEWS
Newsroom
Honors and Awards
Publications
Resources for Journalists
Aging is Happening Newsletter
PROGRAMS
Undergraduate Programs
Master’s Programs
Certificate Programs
PhD Programs
Professional Education
CONNECT
TikTok
Twitter / X
YouTube
Podcast
© 2026 USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology.
Close Menu
About
About Us
Our mission to promote healthy aging for all people, communities and societies is more vital than ever.
Our School
Overview
History
Leadership
Partnerships
Honors and Awards
Cultural Affairs
Board of Councilors
Our Field
Overview
What is Gerontology?
Gerontology Careers
Our Gerontology Expertise
Our Impact
Our Building
Overview
Andrus Gerontology Center
Sophie Davis Art Gallery
Facilities
School Resources
Administrative Staff
Gerontology Directory
Employee Resources
Faculty & Staff Portal
Jobs at USC Leonard Davis
Contact Us
Admission
Admission
Our students come from around the world and from many walks of life, and they’re all here for unique, important reasons.
Overview
Undergraduate Applicants
Master’s Applicants
PhD Applicants
Graduate Certificate Applicants
Doctorate of Longevity Arts and Sciences Applicants
International Applicants
Online Education
Resources
Request Information
How to Apply
Newly Admitted
Tuition and Financial Aid
Frequently Asked Questions
Office Hours
Academics
Academics
At the USC Leonard Davis School, you can earn an undergraduate gerontology degree, an accelerated five-year undergraduate or graduate degree program, a doctoral degree, or a minor in aging.
Undergraduate Programs
Human Development and Aging (BS)
Lifespan Health (BS)
Minor in Gerontology: Individuals, Societies, and Aging
Minor in Gerontology: Science, Health, and Aging
Minor in Geroscience
Master’s Programs
Aging Services Management (MA)
Applied Technology and Aging (MS)
Gerontology (MS)
Gerontology (MA)
Long Term Care Administration (MA)
Medical Gerontology (MA)
Senior Living Hospitality (MA)
Aging Biology (MS)
Specialized Master’s Programs
–
Master’s Programs in Nutrition
Foodservice Management and Dietetics (MA)
Nutrition, Healthspan and Longevity (MS)
Lifespan, Nutrition and Dietetics (MS)
Nutritional Science (MS)
Additional Programs
Graduate Certificate in Gerontology
Doctorate of Longevity Arts and Sciences
Professional Education
–
PhD Programs
PhD in Gerontology
PhD in Geroscience
Academic Resources
Academic Advisement
Career Development
Advisement FAQs
Online Education
Students
Students
Students of the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology share a deep compassion, an inspiring enthusiasm and a vision of an improved quality of life for older adults.
Overview
Undergraduate and Graduate Students
PhD Students
Internships
MSNHL Supervised Practice
Research Opportunities
Academic Conduct
Student Life
Student Organizations
Study Abroad
Alumni Stories
Career Development
Finding Support
Student Resources
Resources Overview
Student Handbooks
Course Catalogue
Schedule of Classes
Academic Calendar
USC Student Affairs
USC Student Health Center
Faculty
Research
Research Overview
Institutes and Centers
Projects and Initiatives
Cores
Multidisciplinary Colloquium Series
Research Opportunities
Research Funding Awards
Research Events
News & Events
News
Event Calendar
Podcast
Publications
Resources for Journalists
Stay Connected
Social Media
Videos
Alumni
Stay Connected
USC FightOnline
Alumni Stories
Support the USC Leonard Davis School
Giving
Giving Overview
Why Give
How to Give
Giving Priorities
Join the Dean’s Circle
Contact the Development Office
More
Jobs at USC Leonard Davis
Faculty & Staff Portal
Vitality Magazine
youtube
rss
spotify
tiktok