Master of Gerontological Studies

The Master of Gerontological Studies (MGS) degree prepares you for work in a wide variety of aging-related fields. MGS graduates generally choose one of three directions: research/academic work, policy, or non-social work direct services. Graduates hold jobs in a range of public and private settings as program or facility administrators, planners, practitioners, researchers, advocates, and trainers. New job opportunities for well-trained gerontologists are constantly emerging. About one-half of MGS graduates go on to pursue a PhD at some point in their career.

Application deadline for Fall enrollment is January 15. 

The MGS curriculum provides students with:

  • A thorough background in theory, policy, and research in social gerontology
  • Hands-on experience through an individualized and supervised field practicum (domestic or abroad)
  • Opportunities to interact with professionals in the field of aging through research experiences and informal mentoring

Our program:

  • Provides assistantships to full-time students (tuition waivers with stipends) based on academic qualifications and availability of funds
  • Offers students administrative, policy, and research experiences that impact the lives of aging adults
  • Helps students establish networks for professional development and career planning
  • Is offered by the Department of Sociology & Gerontology
  • Is supported and enhanced by the Scripps Gerontology Center, an Ohio Center of Excellence that involves students in a wide range of externally-funded research projects

A recent survey of over 100 alumni revealed that 34% had a job prior to completing the program; 83% had a job within 6 months of graduating, and 90% had secured a job within a year of graduation.

To Apply

student talking in front of research poster

All application materials are submitted online. To get started, go to the Miami University Graduate Studies Application Page.

Get Started

Beyond the Classroom

Empowering students with hands-on opportunities is an important part of the education process. Here are a few places our master's students recently engaged in a practicum:

Northwest Ohio Chapter Alzheimer’s Association
–Toledo, OH

The Benjamin Rose Institute
 –Cleveland, OH

Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center
–Baltimore, MD

The Knolls of Oxford
 –Oxford, OH

Have questions?

Do you have questions about our programs or application process? 

Contact The Scripps Gerontology Center for assistance at:

Or request info from the Graduate School:

Request Info