What Can You Do With a Gerontology Degree for 2025?

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

The world is aging at an unprecedented rate. Nearly 58 million Americans are 65 or older today, and that population share (17.3% in 2022) will climb to about 22% by 2040. This surge means more demand than ever for experts in aging.

A gerontology degree positions you to meet that need, translating knowledge of the aging process into rewarding careers. From healthcare and community services to research and policy, gerontology graduates in 2025 are finding diverse opportunities to make a difference.

Read on to discover how this degree can open doors and benefit your career.

What are the benefits of becoming a gerontology degree?

Professionals in aging services earn solid incomes (around $62,000 median annually) with growth as they gain experience.
Roles focused on older adults are expanding rapidly (e.g., 21% growth for home health aides, 2023–2033), ensuring high demand for gerontology skills.
A gerontology background unlocks diverse paths in healthcare, social services, research, and policy—allowing you to work in hospitals, nonprofits, academia, or government programs.

What is gerontology, and why is it more relevant than ever for 2025?
What career paths are available with a gerontology degree?
What are the most in-demand jobs in gerontology right now?
How can a gerontology degree lead to a career in healthcare?
What opportunities exist in research, policy, and academia?
How can gerontology be combined with other fields?
What are the educational pathways for a career in gerontology?
How can I finance my gerontology education affordably?
What are the salary expectations in gerontology careers?
Which certifications can further enhance my gerontology career?
What are the common challenges in gerontology careers?
What skills are essential for success in gerontology?
How can you start a career in gerontology today?
What are the emerging trends shaping gerontology careers?
Other Things You Should Know About What You Can Do With a Gerontology Degree

What is gerontology, and why is it more relevant than ever for 2025?

Gerontology is the scientific study of aging, encompassing the biological, psychological, and social aspects of older adulthood. In practical terms, gerontology explores how people age and how society can support healthy, meaningful aging. It’s more relevant than ever now because of shifting demographics.

The U.S. population of older adults is booming—17.3% of Americans were 65+ in 2022, a figure expected to reach 22% by 2040. This trend, driven by increased longevity and the aging Baby Boomer generation, touches every sector from healthcare to technology. Even experienced healthcare professionals are taking notice; many RNs are exploring alternative careers for registered nurses in gerontology to address the needs of this growing group.

More older adults means higher demand for experts who understand chronic health issues, caregiving, elder law, and retirement systems. Gerontology provides that expertise, making it a critical field for 2025 for ensuring older individuals’ well-being and adapting services for an aging society.

What career paths are available with a gerontology degree?

A gerontology degree opens the door to a wide range of career paths focused on improving the lives of older adults. Many graduates work in healthcare and social services – for example, coordinating senior programs, managing retirement communities, or serving as geriatric care managers.

Some roles fall under community services management; in fact, nearly 200,000 people worked as social and community service managers in 2023 (a category that includes directors of agencies on aging and senior centers).

With additional credentials, you could become a geriatric nurse or geriatric social worker, directly supporting patients and families. There are also opportunities in government and nonprofit organizations developing aging policies or running programs like Meals on Wheels. Business-minded graduates might manage long-term care facilities or work in senior housing development. A few even pursue niche roles, such as designing products for older adults or consulting on aging-in-place home modifications.

The field’s breadth means you can tailor your career to your interests – whether that’s hands-on caregiving, administration, advocacy, or even meeting travel nursing requirements as a geriatric traveling nurse filling workforce gaps in different communities.

What are the most in-demand jobs in gerontology right now?

In 2025, careers related to elder care are among the fastest-growing in the nation. Healthcare roles that serve older adults feature heavily on “most wanted” lists.

For instance, nurse practitioners specializing in adult gerontology are in especially high demand – the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 46.3% increase in nurse practitioner jobs by 2033. That growth reflects the need for advanced clinicians to care for an aging population.

Likewise, support roles are surging: home health and personal care aides, who help seniors with daily activities, are expected to add hundreds of thousands of positions this decade (21% growth from 2023–2033).

Other in-demand gerontology jobs include geriatric physical therapists and occupational therapists (to help older adults stay mobile and independent), geriatric social workers (to navigate resources and mental health issues), and nursing home administrators. Some community health nurse jobs also focus on older adults.

The common thread is that employers need people with elder care expertise in nearly every setting, from hospitals and clinics to private homes. Aspiring professionals are responding accordingly – many seek the quickest way to become a nurse or obtain relevant certifications so they can quickly enter these high-opportunity gerontology roles and make an immediate impact.

To emphasize just how strong the demand is for gerontology-related healthcare roles, consider the outlook (as shown in the image below) for nurse practitioners—many of whom specialize in aging populations.

How can a gerontology degree lead to a career in healthcare?

A gerontology degree is a great foundation for a variety of healthcare careers. In fact, the list of healthcare professions focusing on older adults has gotten longer. Students gain understanding of age-related health changes, chronic diseases, and effective communication with seniors – all valuable in clinical settings.

Many gerontology graduates go on to obtain professional healthcare credentials. For example, you might pursue nursing after your gerontology studies, becoming a geriatric nurse or even an adult-gerontology nurse practitioner.

Gerontology knowledge gives you a leg up in these roles by equipping you to address seniors’ complex needs. (Geriatric NPs often practice in clinics, nursing homes, and hospitals, much like the diverse settings where family nurse practitioners work.)

Beyond direct patient care, gerontology grads find roles in care coordination and health education. You could work as a care transitions coordinator at a hospital, ensuring elderly patients have support after discharge, or as a dementia care specialist guiding families through Alzheimer’s care.

There’s also demand for gerontology expertise in healthcare management. Many graduates rise to oversee assisted living facilities or hospice programs. In fact, employment of medical and health services managers is projected to grow 29% (2023–2033), partly due to the aging population.

In short, whether at the bedside or in the boardroom, gerontology training helps launch a fulfilling healthcare career centered on improving elder care.

What opportunities exist in research, policy, and academia?

Gerontology isn’t limited to frontline care – it also offers rich opportunities in research, policy development, and academic careers.

Research: With longevity increasing, there’s intense interest in studying aging processes and improving older adults’ quality of life. Gerontologists in research might work as medical scientists, epidemiologists, or data analysts focusing on aging populations. For example, universities, government agencies, and pharma companies hire researchers to study Alzheimer’s treatments, geriatric nutrition, or the effectiveness of senior programs. Job prospects are strong in this arena; approximately 146,600 medical scientists (including aging researchers) were employed in 2023, and their ranks are projected to grow about 11% by 2033.
Policy: Gerontology experts are needed to shape public policy as well. You could work for organizations like AARP, the World Health Organization’s aging divisions, or local governments implementing age-friendly community initiatives. Crafting policies on Social Security, elder justice, or healthcare reform requires gerontological insight. Many seasoned nurses and social workers transition into these macro-level roles – one of the appealing alternative careers for registered nurses and other practitioners who want to influence systems of care.
Academia: Finally, with the rise in gerontology programs, universities need instructors and scholars. With an advanced degree (often a Ph.D.), you could become a gerontology professor or college researcher, training the next generation of aging specialists. Whether in a lab, think tank, or classroom, a gerontology degree lets you turn a passion for understanding aging into a career driving change behind the scenes.

How can gerontology be combined with other fields?

Gerontology is inherently interdisciplinary, and combining it with other fields can amplify your career prospects. One popular combination is gerontology and healthcare administration. Many students pair their gerontology background with management skills by pursuing an affordable online masters in healthcare administration, aiming to lead hospitals, senior living facilities, or public health departments. This blend of aging expertise and business acumen is powerful in roles like nursing home administrator or director of an Area Agency on Aging.

Another synergy is gerontology and technology. As the global older population grows, the market for “AgeTech” (technology that helps people age well) is booming—projected to be a $120 billion industry by 2030. Gerontologists working with IT professionals can develop user-friendly medical devices, health monitoring apps, or smart home systems for seniors. Some entrepreneurs with gerontology knowledge are launching startups for elderly care services or products.

Additionally, gerontology intersects with law (elder law and advocacy), finance (retirement planning), and design (accessible housing and universal design principles). For instance, a gerontology grad-turned-architect might design dementia-friendly spaces.

The key is that understanding aging issues adds a valuable lens to almost any domain. By combining gerontology with another discipline, you become a specialist who can bridge gaps – whether it’s translating research into policy, designing age-inclusive products, or managing multi-disciplinary teams in a healthcare setting.

What are the educational pathways for a career in gerontology?

There are multiple pathways to enter the gerontology field, ranging from shorter certificate programs to advanced degrees. Many universities offer Bachelor’s degrees in Gerontology or related majors (sometimes called Aging Studies). This undergraduate route provides a foundation in biology of aging, psychology, and social policy.

For those who discover an interest in aging later or already work in healthcare, graduate certificates in gerontology (often a few courses) can add an aging specialization to your credentials.

A Master’s degree in Gerontology or a related field (like geriatric social work or public health with an aging focus) can open up higher-level positions in administration and research. In fact, data shows that the most common highest degree held by workers in interdisciplinary studies (which includes gerontology) is a master’s.

Doctoral programs (Ph.D.) are ideal if you aim to conduct research or teach at the university level. Notably, gerontology programs are not extremely common, but they are growing—U.S. colleges conferred roughly 1,234 gerontology degrees and certificates in the 2020–2021 academic year.

And if you are wondering what can you do with a DNP in nursing, specializing in gerontology is a great option.

If you’re coming from another profession, there are also bridge programs. For example, a nurse or therapist can get gerontology certification to better serve older patients. Conversely, if you have a gerontology degree and want clinical roles, accelerated paths exist; an intensive post-baccalaureate BSN program is the quickest way to become a nurse, allowing you to then specialize in geriatric nursing. Whether you start with a short certification or commit to a Ph.D., the field offers educational options to match your career goals and timing.

To give you a clearer picture of the typical education levels in the field, the chart below breaks down the most common degrees held by gerontologists. It provides a quick snapshot of how most professionals prepare academically for careers in aging.

How can I finance my gerontology education affordably?

Financing your gerontology education requires a strategic approach that balances scholarships, grants, and cost-effective program choices. Explore federal and state aid opportunities, institutional scholarships, and specialized funding options tailored to interdisciplinary programs. Additionally, comparing program expenses is essential; for instance, evaluating the RN to BSN cost may offer insight into managing tuition fees while pursuing a degree that aligns with your career goals in aging studies.

What are the salary expectations in gerontology careers?

Salaries in gerontology-related careers vary widely depending on the specific job and your level of training. Entry-level and frontline caregiving positions tend to have modest pay, whereas advanced clinical or managerial roles offer high salaries. For example, home health and personal care aides – who often assist older adults in daily tasks – earn a median wage of around $35,000 per year.

Positions requiring a college degree or higher typically pay more. Social and community service managers (common in nonprofit senior services or assisted living administration) have a median annual salary of about $78,000.

Climbing further up, specialized healthcare practitioners in gerontology are well-compensated: Nurse practitioners (including those focusing on geriatric care) see median salaries in the six figures – roughly $129,000 per year as of 2024. For perspective, a neonatal nurse salary (in the opposite end of the age spectrum) is similarly high, indicating that advanced nursing and medical roles tend to be lucrative across the board.

It’s also worth noting that roles like medical and health services managers (which can include nursing home administrators) had a median pay of around $118,000 in 2024.

Overall, with a gerontology degree you can expect competitive pay commensurate with your education. Many professionals start in a mid-range salary role and, as they gain experience or additional certifications, move into higher-paying positions in leadership or advanced practice.

To further illustrate the promising outlook for gerontology-related careers, it's noteworthy that several healthcare roles are among the fastest-growing occupations in the U.S. The chart below highlights the top 10 fastest-growing occupations during this period in the next decade.

Which certifications can further enhance my gerontology career?

Pursuing specialized certifications can distinguish your profile and open doors to advanced roles within gerontology. Industry-recognized credentials—from aging services management to targeted clinical certifications—are designed to validate expertise in addressing complex elder care needs. Evaluating program accreditation and ongoing education opportunities ensures you remain competitive as care models evolve. Additionally, for healthcare professionals transitioning to gerontology-focused roles, a thorough review of financial investments is key; for instance, exploring a nurse practitioner program cost comparison can provide insight into the economic benefits of advanced clinical training.

What are the common challenges in gerontology careers?

Gerontology professionals face a range of practical and strategic challenges that require adaptive solutions. Navigating complex patient needs within constrained resources and evolving regulatory landscapes can stretch even experienced practitioners. Ethical dilemmas, communication barriers with diverse teams and patients, and the pressure to integrate new technological tools add further complexity. Addressing these issues necessitates ongoing professional development and interdisciplinary collaboration. For instance, exploring opportunities like the quickest online MSN WHNP programs can help expand critical healthcare competencies while managing the dynamic demands of geriatric care.

What skills are essential for success in gerontology?

Succeeding in gerontology careers requires a blend of soft skills and technical knowledge. Foremost, strong empathy and communication skills are critical – you’ll be working with older adults who may have cognitive or sensory impairments, so patience, active listening, and clear communication are a must. Being able to build trust and rapport with seniors (and often their families) is key to providing effective support.

Additionally, gerontology professionals need keen observation and assessment skills to notice health or behavioral changes in older clients and respond appropriately. Interdisciplinary teamwork is another essential skill: you might coordinate with doctors, nurses, social workers, and families all at once, so understanding different perspectives and collaborating is vital.

A gerontology background also means having solid knowledge of age-related issues – from chronic disease management to benefits programs – and the ability to navigate systems. Consider that nearly 80% of older adults have two or more chronic conditions; being able to coordinate care plans and understand medical information is therefore very valuable. Problem-solving and adaptability are important too, as every individual’s aging process is unique. You should be ready to tailor solutions, whether it’s adjusting a care plan or finding community resources.

Finally, don’t overlook practical considerations: gerontology careers sometimes require meeting certain regulations or certifications. Being organized with documentation and even willing to travel or adjust to different work settings (similar to fulfilling travel nursing requirements in nursing fields) can give you an edge. Overall, those who combine compassion with continuous learning and flexibility will excel in the dynamic field of gerontology.

To help you better understand what employers are looking for, the chart below shows ranks what skills consistently appear in job posting for geriatric nursing assistants.

How can you start a career in gerontology today?

Getting started in gerontology can be both exciting and straightforward, especially given the high demand for workers in aging-related fields. Here are some steps to launch your career:

Education and Training: Begin by exploring educational programs. You might enroll in a gerontology degree program (associate, bachelor’s, or certificate) or add a gerontology minor to a health-related major. If you’re already a professional (like a nurse, social worker, or therapist), consider a short-term gerontology certification to bolster your expertise in aging. These credentials signal to employers that you have specialized knowledge. For those new to healthcare, another approach is to gain a baseline clinical qualification first; for example, an accelerated nursing program can be the quickest way to become a nurse, after which you can specialize in geriatrics.
Gain Experience: Practical experience is invaluable. Look for volunteer or entry-level positions working with older adults. You could volunteer at a senior center, assist with activities in a nursing home, or become a part-time home care aide. This exposure helps you understand seniors’ needs and will strengthen your resume. Internships are also great – many gerontology or social work programs partner with local agencies on aging or hospitals for student internships. Real-world experience not only builds skills but also helps you network in the elder care community.
Networking and Mentorship: Connect with professionals already in the field. Join organizations like the Gerontological Society of America or your local aging services coalition. Attend workshops or webinars on topics like dementia care or healthy aging – these often attract industry professionals. Don’t hesitate to reach out to professors or supervisors for mentorship; they can guide you to job openings or further training. Given the expansive growth in this sector (about 1.9 million job openings each year in healthcare occupations), making personal connections can help you tap into the hidden job market.
Job Search and Specialization: When you feel prepared, start applying to gerontology-focused roles. Tailor your resume to highlight any aging-related experience or coursework. Entry-level roles could be titles like “gerontology program assistant,” “elderly case manager,” or “activities coordinator” at a senior facility. Use job boards and your network to find leads. As you land that first position, continue learning on the job and consider specializing further if needed. For example, after working as a care manager, you might pursue a master’s to become a licensed geriatric social worker, or if you started as an RN, you might aim to become a certified gerontological nurse practitioner (these practitioners work in many of the same settings as described in where do family nurse practitioners work, but with an exclusive focus on aging adults). Each career step can build on the last.

Starting a gerontology career today means entering a field with purpose and stability. With the aging population, you’ll find ample opportunities to grow and to genuinely improve people’s lives. By combining the right education, hands-on experience, and professional connections, you can step confidently into the world of gerontology and forge a meaningful, future-proof career.

If a career education specialist is something that interests you, look into our separate article on the topic.

To image below highlights just how promising the job market is for those entering the field is, considering the projected demand and salary data for healthcare roles.

Projected job openings and salaries for healthcare occupations

What are the emerging trends shaping gerontology careers?

Recent analyses indicate that digital health, interdisciplinary collaboration, and personalized care models are transforming gerontology. Innovations in telehealth and remote monitoring systems are expanding access to elder care, while growing partnerships between healthcare and technology sectors are creating new roles and services. Additionally, integration with nursing practices is on the rise; for instance, professionals may enhance their expertise by exploring our article on the easiest nursing programs to get into in California, further bridging the gap between traditional gerontology and hands-on clinical care. This evolving landscape demands continuous skills development and adaptability to meet the complex needs of an aging population.

Here's What Graduates Have to Say About Their Gerontology Degree

What I love most about working in gerontology is seeing the direct impact I make on people’s quality of life every day. Supporting families through the challenges of aging is incredibly rewarding. Renata
I completed my degree entirely online while working full-time, and the flexibility allowed me to transition into healthcare administration seamlessly. Today, I oversee operations at an assisted living facility. Maurice
Researching aging trends and helping shape local policy has given my career deep meaning. The field is both intellectually engaging and socially important. Horace

Key Findings

Nearly 58 million Americans are 65+ as of 2022, and that number is rising fast.
47% of gerontologists hold a master’s degree, and 40% have a bachelor’s.
Home health aide roles are projected to grow 21% from 2023 to 2033.
Nurse practitioners, often specializing in gerontology, are seeing 46% job growth this decade.
Median salary for gerontology-related roles ranges from $35,000 to $129,000, depending on role and training.
Gerontology intersects with multiple fields, including policy, healthcare, technology, law, and design.

Other Things You Should Know About What You Can Do With a Gerontology Degree

Do I need a background in healthcare or social sciences to pursue a degree in gerontology?

No, a background in healthcare or social sciences is not strictly necessary to pursue a degree in gerontology. Gerontology is an interdisciplinary field that welcomes students from various academic backgrounds. Programs often value diverse perspectives and provide foundational courses to equip all students with the necessary knowledge.

What are the differences between gerontology and geriatrics?

Gerontology is the comprehensive study of aging and the issues that affect older adults, encompassing social, psychological, and biological aspects. Geriatrics, on the other hand, is a medical specialty focusing on the healthcare of elderly people, dealing with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases in older adults.

Are there online programs available for gerontology degrees?

Yes, many institutions offer online gerontology programs at various levels, including certificates, bachelor's, and master's degrees. These programs provide flexibility for working professionals and those with other commitments, allowing students to balance their studies with personal and professional responsibilities.

What are the career prospects for someone with a gerontology degree?

Graduates with a degree in gerontology have a wide range of career opportunities in sectors such as healthcare, social services, policy development, and research. Positions may include roles like aging services coordinator, geriatric care manager, policy analyst, and research associate. The demand for professionals in this field is growing due to the increasing aging population.