Gerontology (PGCert)

Award
Postgraduate Certificate
Typical Offer
2:1 degree View full entry requirements
Duration
1 year
Course Type
Full-time
Campus
Highfield
Next course starts
September 2025

About this course

Gerontology is the study of ageing and its effects on individuals and societies. We are proud to be the only department dedicated to Gerontology in the UK. We offer distinctive face-to-face and distance learning programmes in gerontology, global ageing and social policy. 

On this full-time PGCert in gerontology at the University of Southampton you'll study the changes people experience as they age. You'll look into the effect of aging populations globally and locally, on social institutions, labour markets, welfare systems and families. Prepare for a career in gerontology or applied health and social sciences.

Understanding the process of population ageing can benefit areas such as health and social care, research, and local and national policy. 

On this UK postgraduate certificate in gerontology, you’ll look at the subject from a range of perspectives, including policy, demography, sociology, biology, healthcare sciences, psychology and economics.

You’ll develop: 

  • understanding of key theories in gerontology and their application
  • knowledge of modern global debates around the lives of older people, their families and societies
  • the ability to evaluate policies and initiatives concerning issues like population ageing, welfare provision and quality of life

Flexible study

If you prefer, you can apply to study this course as:

  • a part-time postgraduate certificate (PGCert) - you'll usually study over 2 years

If you’re not ready to take on a full course, as part of continuing professional development (CPD) you can choose to study a module on its own. It’s a great way to introduce yourself to the subject and you can build up to higher level study. Choose campus based study or distance learning.

Your modules and fees may vary if you choose a different study option.

We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.

Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).

Course lead

Your course leader is Rosalind Willis, Associate Professor in Gerontology at the University of Southampton. Her research interests are on ethnic diversity and ageing, dementia, and care. Read Dr Willis’s profile to find out more about her research interests and publications.

Course location

This course is based at Highfield.

Awarding body

This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.

Download the Course Description Document

The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.