Gerontology Program Ages Well

Ten years after the start of Bethel’s Master of Arts in Gerontology program, more than 90 students have graduated with a Master of Arts in Gerontology degree from Bethel University’s Graduate School, and the program has also expanded to offer a graduate certificate beginning this year. The program directors hope this new option will help equip those who have already attained a bachelor’s degree in another discipline to gain a greater understanding of gerontology and develop the necessary skills to prepare them for future work with older adults in a variety of venues.

At a special event celebrating the anniversary, special guest and award-winning Star Tribunejournalist Warren Wolfe shared his own insights and experiences, drawing from his recent writings about aging and health care and the lessons he’s learned through caring for his own aging parents.“Mr. Wolfe shared things he learned by doing caregiving, not just by writing about it,” says recent program graduate Eunice Hegelson. Wolfe spoke of the challenges he faced and the need for ongoing information and support, demonstrating the value of Bethel’s gerontology program in an increasingly aging society.