Program structure

The Doctoral Program in Gerontology at the University of Maryland is designed to offer an interdisciplinary approach to the study of aging. The program structure includes:

1. Core Coursework (21 credits): Courses cover topics such as the biology of aging, epidemiology of aging, aging policy issues, psychological aspects of aging, sociocultural gerontology, and theories and methods in aging research.

2. Research Methods and Statistics (12 credits): These courses provide foundational skills in research methodologies and statistical analysis, with an emphasis on techniques relevant to gerontological studies.

3. Track Specialization (9 credits): Students choose a focus in one of the available tracks, including aging policy, epidemiology of aging, or social, cultural, and behavioral sciences. Course selection is made in consultation with an academic advisor.

4. Electives (6 credits): Students can choose from a range of courses related to aging, tailored to their research interests.

5. Ethics Course (1 credit): Focused on professional and research ethics, particularly within the context of aging research.

6. Aging Forum and Seminars: Students are required to attend regular forums and seminars on aging, which provide practical insights into the research and professional world of gerontology.

7. Comprehensive Exams: These are taken after completing the core coursework, typically by the end of the second year for full-time students.

8. Dissertation Research (minimum 12 credits): Students conduct original research under the supervision of a faculty advisor, culminating in a dissertation defense.

For more information, you can visit the program's official page​ Life Sciences Graduate Program

Fees and Funding

The Doctoral Program in Gerontology at the University of Maryland charges tuition on a per-credit basis. The current cost per credit hour is $638 for in-state students and $1,102 for out-of-state students. The program requires a minimum of 49 credits for completion at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB), though students at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) may need more.

Funding opportunities are available to help offset costs, including graduate research assistantships, which provide a stipend, tuition remission, and health insurance. The program encourages students to apply for these assistantships as well as other forms of financial aid.

For more details on tuition and funding, you can visit the University of Maryland's Gerontology program page or check the Graduate School catalog​ UMD Graduate School

Scholarship Guidance

The Doctoral Program in Gerontology at the University of Maryland offers various funding opportunities, including graduate research assistantships (GRAs). These assistantships provide a 12-month stipend, tuition remission (up to 10 credits per semester), and health insurance. The stipend amount is typically around $32,250 per year, and students are expected to work about 20 hours per week on research or other duties under faculty direction.

The program aims to secure funding for students throughout their studies, often through research grants or state support. Additionally, students are encouraged to explore other financial aid options, such as federal loans for eligible U.S. citizens.

For more details on scholarships and funding, visit the program's financial information page

Admission Requirements

The Doctoral Program in Gerontology at the University of Maryland requires applicants to submit a comprehensive set of materials. Key admission requirements include:

1. Application Deadline: Applications are accepted for Fall admission only, with a deadline of December 15.
2. Required Documents:
   • Completed application form.
   • Three letters of recommendation, preferably from academic or professional contacts.
   • Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. International applicants must provide a transcript evaluation.
   • Statement of academic goals and research interests.
   • CV or resume detailing relevant experiences.
3. Standardized Tests: The GRE is not required for admission. However, TOEFL or IELTS scores are necessary for international students who do not hold a degree from a U.S. institution and whose native language is not English.
4. Funding Opportunities: Graduate research assistantships are available, offering a stipend, tuition remission, and health insurance.

For more details, you can visit the program's admissions page.

Application Procedure

To apply for the Doctoral Program in Gerontology at the University of Maryland, follow these steps:

1. Application Deadline: Applications are accepted for Fall admission only, with a deadline of December 15.

2. Submit Required Documents:

   • Online Application: Complete the application form on the University of Maryland's Graduate School portal.
   • Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. International students must provide a transcript evaluation.
   • Three Letters of Recommendation: Preferably from academic or professional references.
   • Statement of Academic Goals and Research Interests: This serves as a writing sample to demonstrate your motivation for pursuing gerontology and your future plans.
   • CV or Resume: Detailing your academic and professional background.
   • English Proficiency Test Scores (TOEFL/IELTS): Required for international applicants who do not have a degree from a U.S. institution.

3. Standardized Tests: The GRE is not required for this program.

4. Interviews: Selected candidates may be invited for an interview, which could be in-person or virtual.

For more information, visit the program's application page​ UMD Graduate School