Prepare to Lead in Aging Services, Policy, and Social Change

Prepare for a career in aging services, healthcare, social work, or public policy with the Sociology of Aging concentration at Westfield State University. As demographic trends show rapid population aging at local, national, and global levels, there is a growing demand for professionals who understand the social, economic, and institutional impacts of aging. This program provides a strong foundation in sociology, including courses in sociological theory, research methods, and real-world internships, alongside focused coursework in gerontology, aging populations, family dynamics, and end-of-life care. Students gain the knowledge and experience needed to work in current and emerging fields related to aging, while developing the critical thinking and research skills essential for graduate study or careers in aging-related fields.

Program Highlights

  • Explore how aging impacts communities and institutions
  • Apply skills in real-world aging-related settings
  • Prepare for jobs or grad school in aging fields
  • Blend sociology and gerontology for a well-rounded education

Turn Your Interest in Social Change Into Action

Help shape a society that supports all ages.

Gain Real-World Skills for Careers in Aging, Healthcare, and Social Services

  • Sociology faculty member giving a presentation in front of a classroom.

    Understand the Aging Process and Its Social Impact

    Learn how aging affects individuals, families, and society through courses like Sociology of Aging and Families and Aging. Explore topics such as caregiving, retirement, age-friendly communities, and the systems that support an aging population.

  • Student smiling at an internship sitting at a desk.

    Hands-On Experience Through Aging-Focused Internships

    Complete internships in sociology or gerontology to gain real-world experience working with older adults in community health, long-term care, or social service settings. Build your resume, expand your professional network, and explore careers in aging services and public health.

  • Student smiling in a classroom while listening to a professor speaking.

    Prepare for High-Demand Careers and Graduate Programs

    With a growing need for professionals trained in aging and elder care, this concentration prepares you for careers in social work, public health, healthcare administration, and nonprofit leadership. You’ll also be well-positioned for graduate study in sociology, gerontology, or human services.

Program Details

Learning Outcomes

Facilitate our students to grow into active, constructive, productive and energetic members of a just and prosperous society by enabling their sufficient analytical and language skill, accurate understanding about social reality, deep knowledge in the professional fields, strong drive for social justice and social progress, built-in cross-cultural sense and sensibility.

What Can You Do With a Sociology, Sociology of Aging Concentration, B.A.?

With a Sociology, Sociology of Aging Concentration, B.A., you can pursue meaningful careers and graduate studies that focus on improving the lives of older adults and shaping the future of aging in society. This concentration prepares students with a deep understanding of social, cultural, and policy issues related to aging populations. Graduates are prepared for roles in:

  • Activities Director (assisted living or senior centers)
  • Adult Day Services Coordinator
  • Aging Services Specialist
  • Case Manager (in elder services or social services)
  • Geriatric Care Advocate
  • Outreach and Education Coordinator (aging-related nonprofits)
  • Senior Center Program Coordinator
  • Social Services Assistant (hospitals or nursing homes)
Student smiling at commencement ceremony wearing cap and gown holding diploma.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Program Description

Demographic trends point to an aging of the population locally, nationally, and globally. Our concentration on aging is intended to give students an understanding of what this trend means to our society and to prepare students to both engage and work in current and emerging fields related to aging. Students concentrating in Sociology of Aging will have an understanding of the aging process, the institutional requirements, and organizational shifts needed to support an aging society.

Sociology Required Courses - 18-21 Credits
  • SOCI 0101 - Principles of Sociology
  • SOCI 0250 - Research Methods I
  • or CRJU 0231 - Research Methods in Criminal Justice Credits: 3
  • SOCI 0251 - Research Methods II: Quantitative Methods
  • or CRJU 0313 - Statistics in Criminal Justice Credits: 3or GPS 0246 - Quantitative Methods for Social and Physical Science Credits: 3
  • SOCI 0300 - Internship in Sociology
  • GERO 0370 may be used to fulfill SOCI 0300 for students who minor in Gerontology.
  • SOCI 0335 - Sociological Theory
  • SOCI 0390 - Capstone in Sociology
  • or equivalent work in cognate field with approval from the Sociology Capstone Coordinator (Additional work may be required to meet the equivalency for sociology)
  •  *Students who double major in Psychology and Sociology may have SOCI 0250 and SOCI 0251 waived if they complete PSYC 0219, PSYC 0308, and PSYC 0319 with a B average and permission from the chair of the sociology department.Students who double major in Social Work and Sociology may have SOCI 0250 and SOCI 0251 waived if they complete SOCW 0204 and SOCW 0301 with a B average and permission from the chair of the sociology department.
  •  **Internship requirement can also be met through a cognate department with approval of the Sociology Internship Coordinator.
Sociology of Aging Concentration - 18 Credits
Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the University Graduation Requirements and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in General Education: WISE or Common Core.

Get Big School Features with Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 17:1

    student-faculty ratio

  • 700+

    internship opportunities

  • Study abroad

    in 35+ countries

Expert Faculty and Individualized Attention

Westfield State University’s Sociology Department prides itself on providing personal attention to each of our students. You’ll receive one-on-one attention and mentorship from faculty and administrators. Plus, we work with you to tailor your degree to fit your interests and professional goals.

Our sociology faculty have targeted expertise in global perspectives on the sociology of organizations; the sociology of culture, race, class, and gender relations; social inequality, collective action, and social change; and sociological theory.

Learn more about the department

Sociology, Hispanic, Liberal, and Interdisciplinary Studies Department Academic Awards Ceremony with smiling students and faculty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).     

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the minimum eligibility requirements established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) in order to qualify for admission to a state university.   

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

Request Information

We’re here to answer your questions and deliver the support you need along your academic journey. Please provide your contact information and area of interest, and we’ll be in touch shortly.

Name

Sociology, Sociology of Aging Concentration, B.A.