This certificate offers an applied foundation in aging-related care, public health, and advocacy.
occupational endorsement certificate in gerontology
As Alaska’s population continues to age, so does the demand for professionals trained to support the health, dignity, and well-being of older adults. The Occupational Endorsement Certificate (OEC) in Gerontology prepares students to meet the public health challenges of an aging society, including providing competent care in medical settings and connecting older adults and their families with essential community resources and end-of-life support.
Whether you're currently working in health care, social services, or a community-based role, or just beginning your educational journey, this certificate offers an applied foundation in aging-related care, public health, and advocacy. Students will explore social and environmental factors affecting aging outcomes, learn to recognize and address ageism, and develop skills in person-centered and end-of-life care models.
This OEC is ideal for those interested in contributing to Alaska’s senior care workforce across nonprofit, tribal, and public sectors. It also introduces students to pathways in gerontology research. Courses in the certificate may be applied as elective credits toward the Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences or other approved programs.
WHY CHOOSE gerontology AT UAA?
Alaska’s population is aging faster than most states, while the working-age population continues to decline. This demographic shift is driving strong and growing demand for professionals trained to support older adults across healthcare and social service settings.
Learn from highly-skilled faculty. Their specialties include public health education, gerontology, maternal and child wellness, disability studies, adolescent health, and more.
Participate in service-learning projects while earning course credit. Many of UAA’s health science classes incorporate activities that facilitate engagement with community partners.
NEWS & Stories
The newly opened Havelock Trial Simulation Courtroom provides UAA students and others with hands-on, experiential learning in a setting identical to courts in which they will eventually practice law. The classroom is named after John E. Havelock, founding director of the UAA Justice Center.
The John E. Havelock Trial Simulation Courtroom officially opened on the UAA campus, expanding hands-on training opportunities for students pursuing legal careers in Alaska. University faculty, staff, and students gathered on Feb. 20 to celebrate the classroom's formal dedication an opening.
Elaina Mack, a senior kinesiology major from King Cove, broke school records with 10 successful three-point shots in the Seawolves game against Northwest U. Mack scored a total of 41 points over the course of the game.
Dr. Jay Butler has been appointed dean of the UAA College of Health. He will begin his role in late Dec. 2025, bringing extensive experience in public health and infectious disease research.
Philippe Amstislavski, a scientist with a passion for sustainable innovation, is pioneering the use of mycelium insulation to help Alaska’s remote communities combat extreme cold and climate change.
PROGRAM INFORMATION
Contact Us
Phone: (907) 786-6545
Email: dphs@alaska.edu
UAA Div. of Population Health Sciences
UAA Professional Studies Building
2533 Providence Dr., Suite 206
Anchorage, AK 99508
Mailing Address
UAA Div. of Population Health Sciences
3211 Providence Dr., PSB 206
Anchorage, AK 99508
