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We’re the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, and Life is our Work

We collaborate in scholarship and service to improve how people live and age, now and for generations to come.

As the first, largest and most renowned School of Gerontology, we pioneered the study of aging. Today, we continue to boldly reimagine the future, break new ground and launch students into meaningful careers.

Our mission to promote healthy aging for diverse people, communities and societies is more vital than ever. Join us in making life better for people of all ages.

Our Mission

The mission of the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology is to promote healthy aging for diverse individuals, communities and societies through leadership and innovation in research, education and practice.

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Why Study Gerontology?

Gerontology is the study of human development and the intricacies of aging across the lifespan. The processes of aging are both unique and universal, relevant to every person, company, industry and community.

Now, scientific breakthroughs and global demographic shifts are shining a spotlight on the challenges and opportunities of aging. By 2040, 1 in 5 Americans will be over age 65. In 2050, about 1.6 billion people worldwide will fall in that category.

Gerontology has never been more urgently needed, and gerontologists have never been more in demand. Learn more about what gerontologists do.

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An Education on the Leading Edge

The field of gerontology is advancing rapidly, and we provide an education that’s equally dynamic.

A growing body of research reveals that people all age differently, based on a range of diverse factors. We have access to more data than ever to help us improve our health and our lives.

Our leading-edge curriculum puts students at the forefront of these advances and discoveries, empowering them to navigate the complexities of an aging population.

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Your Pathway to a Meaningful Career in Aging

USC Leonard Davis is your pathway to enter this fulfilling field. We’re the nation’s first professional school of gerontology and a global leader in gerontology research and education.

We’ve pioneered the study of aging since 1975, bringing together leading minds to shape the future. And we have a place for you, no matter what industry or job role you aspire to.

Learn More About the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology

USC Leonard Davis is a close-knit community of leaders driven by a shared passion to improve the world. Learn more about:

Our School
Discover our wide range of degree programs and learning tracks for undergraduates, recent graduates and established professionals.

Our Gerontology Expertise
Explore our faculty’s wide-ranging specialties and learn about our interdisciplinary, collaborative approach to teaching and research.

Our History
Learn about our heritage of expanding access and opportunities for older adults and how that legacy continues today.

15th Annual Caregivers Are Learning More (C.A.L.M.) Conference & Resource Fair on November 1, 2014 photographed by Gennia Cui of Creative Core, LLC

Our Impact
Learn how our research, programs and initiatives are transforming our local, national and global communities.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Diversity is an integral component across research, practice, and education within the Leonard Davis School of Gerontology. Our faculty conduct innovative research aimed at understanding and bridging ethnic disparities among older adults in health and wellness, quality of life, longevity, and other factors related to quality of life. Our Family Caregiver Support Center serves the neighboring ethnically diverse community of USC. Our courses integrate issues of diversity where possible. Through this plan, we aim to further weave diversity throughout all aspects of the Leonard Davis School of Gerontology.

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The USC Leonard Davis School is the best of both worlds: an intimate school in a world-class research university. With such a rapidly aging population, this field is exploding!

Cameron ChalfantAlumnus, Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Aging Program Vice President, CBRE

Gerontology is the new hybrid career... If you walk out your front door and look around, you will see older people everywhere. There is such a need for people educated in aging that the career opportunities are endless.

Jolene FassbinderMSG graduate and program officer for the Archstone Foundation, which provides grants for innovative projects addressing the needs of older adults

You can always treat pneumonia with a simple antibiotic regimen, but the important questions are how will patients afford the medication, whether they are able to take it by themselves or remember to take it at all, and how will they make it to follow up appointments. My studies in gerontology made me aware of these issues before I even started medical school.

Karlton WongMSG graduate, MD at Providence Roy and Patricia Disney Family Cancer Center and Adjunct Lecturer at the USC Leonard Davis School

Discover our Gerontology Programs

Explore our gerontology programs, or contact us to learn more about the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology.

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