About this course
Discover the challenges associated with ageing, and assessing academic and policy evidence on our PGCert Global Ageing and Policy (Distance Learning) course. This online postgraduate certificate will teach you how to carry out policy evaluation to improve older people's wellbeing, with a focus on ageing societies.
This course centres on gerontology - the study of ageing at an individual and societal level.
You’ll study ageing over a lifetime and the challenges it presents in different parts of the world, including:
- China
- Southeast Asia
- sub-Saharan Africa
You’ll examine the changes we undergo as we age, as well as the impact of growing proportions of older people on social institutions, labour markets, welfare systems and families. The study of ageing also investigates the links between generations and the connections between a person's experiences over a lifetime.
This course draws on a range of disciplines including:
- social policy
- demography
- sociology
- biology
- health sciences
- psychology
- economics
Flexible study
If you prefer, you can apply to study this course as:
- a part-time distance learning 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.
Course lead
The course lead, Athina Vlachantoni, is Professor of Gerontology and Social Policy. Professor Vlachantoni joined the University of Southampton in 2007, following a PhD in social policy at the London School of Economics and Political Science. Professor Vlachantoni’s staff profile page.
“My background is in public health and I have an interest in research within ageing, but lacked a professional degree. I chose Southampton due to its position as one of the world’s top universities and that it has a dedicated gerontology department with internationally renowned work.”
“I see myself as not just a student but an activist, everyone around me benefits from me doing this course.”
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.
Changes due to COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 situation is improving, any future restrictions could mean we might have to change the way parts of our teaching and learning take place in 2021 to 2022. We're working hard to plan for a number of possible scenarios. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
