Graduate Program Curriculum - USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology Admissions Skip to main content

Master of Science in Gerontology (MSG)

This flagship program prepares graduates to take on major leadership roles in the private and public sectors, working in planning, evaluating, and administering programs. It is also designed for graduate students who want to assume executive positions that deliver direct services to older people and their families or teach older adults and service providers.

44 Units Total

Required Courses

32 units

GERO 510 – Physiology of Development and Aging
GERO 520 – Life Span Developmental Psychology
GERO 530 – Life Span Developmental Sociology
GERO 540 – Social Policy and Aging
GERO 589 – Case Studies in Leadership and Change Management
GERO 591 – Field Practicum
GERO 593 – Research Methods
GERO 555 – Integrating Gerontology: A Multidisciplinary Approach

Elective Courses

12 units

Accelerated Master of Science in Gerontology (MSG)

There are special eligibility requirements for this program. Please contact ldsgero@usc.edu for more information.

36 Units Total

Required Courses

24 units

GERO 510 – Physiology of Development and Aging OR
GERO 520 – Life Span Developmental Psychology OR
GERO 530 – Life Span Developmental Sociology OR
GERO 540 – Social Policy and Aging
GERO 591 – Field Practicum
GERO 591 – Field Practicum
GERO 593 – Research Methods
GERO 555 – Gerontology: A Multidisciplinary Approach
Gerontology Elective – 4 units

Skill Requirements

12 units

Master of Arts in Gerontology (MAG)

The Master of Arts in Gerontology offers current professionals in the field a chance to acquire superb skills and formal training in gerontology.

28 Units Total

Required Courses

20 units

GERO 500 – Perspectives on a Changing Society: An Introduction to Aging
GERO 508 – The Mind and Body Connection through the Lifespan
GERO 520 – Life Span Developmental Psychology
GERO 530 – Life Span Developmental Sociology
GERO 540 – Social Policy and Aging

Elective Courses (choose two)

8 units

GERO 493 – Longevity & Death among Ancient & Modern European Populations
GERO 494 – Emotion-Cognition Interactions and Aging
GERO 498 – Nutrition, Genes, Longevity and Diseases
GERO 501 – Applied Legal and Regulatory Issues in Aging
GERO 502 – Marketing and Shifts in Consumer Decision Making
GERO 504 – Current Issues in Aging Services Management
GERO 505 – Behavioral and Social Consequences of Design and Environment
GERO 506 – Technological Innovations in Aging (Gerontechnology)
GERO 507 – End of Life Care
GERO 510 – Physiology of Development and Aging
GERO 520 – Life Span Developmental Psychology
GERO 522 – Counseling Older Adults and Their Families
GERO 541 – Health Care Delivery Models: Comparative Approaches
GERO 543 – Continuum of Care: Systems Perspective
GERO 550 – Administration and Systems Management in Programs for Older Adults
GERO 551 – Applied Policy Skills in Aging
GERO 554 – Evaluation: Incorporating Evidence-Based Practices
GERO 585 – The Aging Family
GERO 589 – Case Studies in Leadership and Change Mangement
GERO 593 – Research Methods
GERO 599 – Special Topics

Master of Arts in Long-Term Care Administration (MALTCA)

The MALTCA is a multi-USC school program that combines the social, psychological, and biological aspects of aging with training in the administration and management of long-term care organizations.

28.5 Units Total

Required Courses

24.5 units

GERO 500 – Perspectives on a Changing Society: An Introduction to Aging
GERO 501 – Applied Legal and Regulatory Issues in Aging
GERO 508 – The Mind and Body Connection through the Lifespan OR
GERO 522 – Counseling Older Adults and Their Families
GERO 550 – Administration & System Management in Programs for Older Adults
GSBA 504a – Operations Management
GSBA 509 – Marketing Management
GSBA 510 – Accounting Concepts and Financial Reporting
PPD 601 – Management of Long-Term Care Organizations

Elective Course (choose 1)

4 units

GERO 520 – Life Span Developmental Psychology OR
GERO 530 – Life Span Developmental Sociology OR
GERO 540 – Social Policy and Aging OR
GERO 589 – Professional Issues in Gerontology

Master of Arts in Aging Services Management (MAASM)

The Master of Arts in Aging Services Management is designed to give current and future aging services managers the knowledge and skill set to offer services, programs, and products to older adults.

32 Units Total

Required Courses (choose 3 of the 5)

12 units

GERO 500 – Perspectives on a Changing Society: An Introduction to Aging
GERO 501 – Applied Legal and Regulatory Issues in Aging
GERO 502 – Marketing and Shifts in Consumer Decision Making
GERO 504 – Current Issues in Aging Services Management
GERO 589 – Case Studies in Leadership and Change Management

Elective Courses (choose 5)

20 units

GERO 493 – Longevity & Death among Ancient & Modern European Populations
GERO 494 – Emotion-Cognition Interactions and Aging
GERO 498 – Nutrition, Genes, Longevity and Diseases
GERO 505 – Housing and Community Policies and Programs
GERO 506 – Technological Innovations in Aging (Gerontechnology)
GERO 507 – End of Life Care
GERO 508 – The Mind and Body Connection through the Lifespan
GERO 510 – Physiology of Development and Aging
GERO 520 – Life Span Developmental Psychology
GERO 522 – Counseling Older Adults and Their Families
GERO 530 – Life Span Developmental Sociology
GERO 540 – Social Policy and Aging
GERO 541 – Health Care Delivery Models: Comparative Approaches
GERO 543 – Continuum of Care: Systems Perspective
GERO 550 – Administration and Systems Management in Programs for Older Adults
GERO 551 – Applied Policy Skills in Aging
GERO 554 – Evaluation: Incorporating Evidence-Based Practices
GERO 585 – The Aging Family
GERO 591 – Field Practicum
GERO 593 – Research Methods
GERO 599 – Special Topics

Master of Science in Applied Technology and Aging (MSATA)

The Master of Science in Applied Technology and Aging is designed for those who are interested in applying technology to the challenges faced by an increasingly aging population. Ideally, for those with engineering, design or healthcare backgrounds or for those whose career objectives lead to application of technology in senior living or service organizations.

32 Units Total

Required Courses

24 units

GERO 500 – Perspectives on a Changing Society: An Introduction to Aging
GERO 502 – Marketing and Shifts in Consumer Decision Making
GERO 506 – Technological Innovations in Aging (Gerontechnology)
GERO 565 – Novel Technologies in Aging and Assisted Living
GERO 568 – Adaptive Age-Friendly Environments and Injury Prevention
GERO 591 – Field Practicum

Elective Courses

8 units

GERO 501 – Applied Legal and Regulatory Issues in Aging
GERO 510 – Physiology of Development and Aging
GERO 554 – Evaluation: Incorporating Evidence-Based Practices
GERO 563 – Geronpsychology
GERO 564 – Multiple Chronic Conditions and Older Adults
GERO 566 – Cognitive Decline: Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia and Advances in Imaging
GERO 589 – Case Studies in Leadership and Change Management
GERO 590 – Directed Research
GERO 592 – Multidisciplinary Research Seminar in Aging
GERO 593 – Research Methods

Master of Arts in Medical Gerontology (MAMG)

The Master of Arts in Medical Gerontology allows health care professionals and others interested in the health and medical care of older adults to expand upon existing knowledge of the aging process. This program allows students to analyze the complexities of treating and managing multiple chronic conditions. Students are familiarized with the whole person approach to aging which includes examining the environment in which older persons live, nutritional practices, and the care team that provides services.

33 Units Total

Required Courses

25 units

GERO 561 – Introduction to Aging and Normal Changes with Aging
GERO 562 – Diseases of Aging with Emphasis on Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes
GERO 563 – Geronpsychology
GERO 564 – Multiple Chronic Conditions and Older Adults
GERO 566 – Cognitive Decline: Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia and Advances in Imaging
GERO 567 – Prevention of Chronic Disease through Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Lifestyle Changes
GERO 569 – Healthcare Leadership and Administration

Elective Courses

8 units

Courses will be selected in consultation with an advisor. Suggested courses below:
GERO 565 – Novel Technologies in Aging and Assisted Living
GERO 568 – Adaptive Age-Friendly Environments and Injury Prevention

Master of Arts in Senior Living Hospitality (MASLH)

The Master of Arts in Senior Living Hospitality is designed to train current and future senior living executives in managerial functions, nutrition, health, and social engagement within a gerontological framework. This customer-centered approach in this industry is essential to improving the lives of older people. Students will focus on the physical, emotional, and social needs of customers 55 years and older.

All successful graduates will also have the opportunity to earn a Certificate in Hospitality from Cornell University’s Nolan School of Hotel Administration in addition to their Master of Arts in Senior Living Hospitality. Contact an advisor to learn more.

43 Units Total

Required Courses

31 units

GERO 500 – Perspectives on a Changing Society: An Introduction to Aging
GERO 501 – Applied Legal and Regulatory Issues in Aging
GERO 552 – Human Resources and Aging
GERO 574 – Leadership and Management in Senior Living
GERO 575 – Marketing and Senior Living
GERO 576 – Finance and Senior Living
GERO 577 – Food Service and Senior Living
GERO 578 – Revenue Management for Senior Living
GERO 579 – Branding Senior Living
GERO 589 – Case Studies in Leadership and Change Management

Elective Courses

12 units
Students must select three electives (for a total of 12 units) of courses from the list below. Core courses may not double count as electives. Students may take any elective courses below with a few limitations:

  • GERO 599 may be taken in consultation with the academic advisor
  • A maximum of two GERO 400-level courses from the list below
  • A maximum of 4 units of GERO 590
  • A maximum of 8 units of GERO 591

GERO 494 – Emotion-Cognition Interactions and Aging
GERO 498 – Nutrition, Genes, Longevity and Diseases
GERO 502 – Marketing and Shifts in Consumer Decision Making
GERO 504 – Current Issues in Aging Services Management
GERO 505 – Housing and Community Policies and Programs
GERO 506 – Technological Innovations in Aging (Gerontechnology)
GERO 507 – End of Life Care
GERO 508 – The Mind and Body Connection through the Lifespan
GERO 510 – Physiology of Development and Aging
GERO 520 – Life Span Developmental Psychology
GERO 530 – Life Span Developmental Sociology
GERO 540 – Social Policy and Aging
GERO 541 – Health Care Delivery Models: Comparative Approaches
GERO 543 – Continuum of Care: Systems Perspective
GERO 550 – Administration and System Management in Programs for Older Adults
GERO 551 – Applied Policy Skills in Aging
GERO 554 – Evaluation: Incorporating Evidence-Based Practices
GERO 585 – The Aging Family
GERO 590 – Directed Research
GERO 591 – Field Practicum
GERO 593 – Research Methods
GERO 599 – Special Topics

Advanced Standing Option | Master of Arts in Senior Living Hospitality (MASLH)

The USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology offers an advanced standing option for students who have graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or a Master of Business Administration from an accredited college or university. To be eligible for the advanced standing option, students must have successfully completed their bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.00 for the last 60/90 units of undergraduate work or a 3.3 GPA for their MBA. A cumulative 3.5 GPA for all business courses with a grade of B or better is required for admission.

Students admitted with advanced standing will bypass 11 units of the MASLH program and will be required to complete 32 units, including 24 units of required courses and 8 units of electives.

Students in the advanced standing option with the MASLH have the opportunity to earn a Certificate in Hospitality from Cornell University’s Nolan School of Hotel Administration in addition to their Master of Arts in Senior Living Hospitality degree. Contact an advisor to learn more.

32 Units Total

Required Courses

24 units

GERO 500 – Perspectives on a Changing Society: An Introduction to Aging
GERO 501 – Applied Legal and Regulatory Issues in Aging
GERO 502 – Marketing and Shifts in Consumer Decision Making
GERO 504 – Current Issues in Aging Services Management
GERO 552 – Human Resources and Aging
GERO 589 – Case Studies in Leadership and Change Management

Elective Courses

8 units
Students select at least 8 units from the following courses:

GERO 494 – Emotion-Cognition Interactions and Aging
GERO 498 – Nutrition, Genes, Longevity and Diseases
GERO 505 – Housing and Community Policies and Programs
GERO 506 – Technological Innovations in Aging (Gerontechnology)
GERO 507 – End of Life Care
GERO 508 – The Mind and Body Connection through the Lifespan
GERO 510 – Physiology of Development and Aging
GERO 520 – Life Span Developmental Psychology
GERO 522 – Counseling Older Adults and Their Families
GERO 530 – Life Span Developmental Sociology
GERO 540 – Social Policy and Aging
GERO 541 – Health Care Delivery Models: Comparative Approaches
GERO 550 – Administration and System Management in Programs for Older Adults
GERO 551 – Applied Policy Skills in Aging
GERO 574 – Leadership and Management in Senior Living
GERO 575 – Marketing Senior Living
GERO 576 – Finance and Senior Living
GERO 577 – Food Service and Senior Living
GERO 578 – Revenue Management for Senior Living
GERO 579 – Branding Senior Living
GERO 585 – The Aging Family
GERO 590 – Directed Research
GERO 591 – Field Practicum
GERO 593 – Research Methods
GERO 599 – Special Topics

Master of Science in Nutrition, Healthspan, and Longevity (MSNHL)

This degree is for those who want to pursue a career in nutrition and dietetics. It can lead to working in health care facilities, long-term care and supported living environments, tertiary and community hospitals, university and school food service programs, a business involving personal wellness, private practice, scientific research on nutrition’s role in health and longevity, or in policy and advocacy. The program promotes health and longevity based on scientific evidence, integrating academic study with professional practice experience.

Additional Requirements for MS in Nutrition, Healthspan and Longevity Program

Prerequisite courses must be completed before starting the program.

  • For the list of prerequisite courses, please view the MSNHL Program Description.
  • All prerequisite courses cannot be more than 10 years old at the time of application (the exception is the general psychology and the math)
  • All prerequisite courses must meet our minimum unit requirement in the semester system.  Courses taken on any other system, including the quarter system, must be converted to semester units.
  • Not required to complete all at USC
Program Description Prerequisites Template

44 Units Total

Required Courses

GERO 498 (4 units) – Nutrition, Genes, Longevity and Diseases
GERO 511 (4 units) – Fundamentals of Clinical Nutrition Screening and Assessment
GERO 512 (2 units) – Communicating Nutrition and Health
GERO 513 (2 units) – Fundamentals of Nutrition: Macronutrients
GERO 515L (4 units) – Food Production and Food Service Management
GERO 517L (4 units) – Advanced Therapeutic Nutrition
GERO 518 (4 units) – Current Topics in Clinical Nutrition
GERO 560 (4 units) – Fundamentals of Nutrition: Micronutrients
GERO 590 (2 units) – Directed Research
GERO 591 (1-12 units) – Field Practicum
GERO 593 (4 units) – Research Methods

Master of Arts in Foodservice Management and Dietetics (MAFMD)

This degree prepare students to communicate principles and practices of lifespan nutrition related to health and longevity as well as evaluate principles and practices related to wellness.  At the end of this program graduates will be able to implement best practices in personnel management related to foodservice systems and sit for the national Certifying Board for Dietary Managers (CBDM®) Credentialing Exam.

32 Units Total

Required Courses

GERO 488 – Food, Culture, Disease and Longevity in Italy and the Mediterranean (4 units)
GERO 500 – Perspectives on a Changing Society: An Introduction to Aging (4 units)
GERO 512 – Communicating Nutrition and Health (2 units)
GERO 515 – Food Production and Foodservice Management (4 units)
GERO 567 – Prevention of Chronic Diseases through Nutrition, Physical Activity and Lifestyle Changes (4 units)
GERO 577 – Foodservice and Senior Living (2 units)
GERO 578 – Revenue Management for Senior Living (2 units)
GERO 591 – Field Practicum (2 units)
GERO 592 – Multidisciplinary Research Seminar in Aging (4 units)
GERO 593 – Research Methods (4 units)

Master of Science in Nutritional Science (MSNS)

This degree prepares graduates with advanced knowledge, skills, and intellectual maturity to become innovative leaders in healthspan and longevity.  This program gives students who have completed an undergraduate degree in nutrition an opportunity to earn a master’s degree with an emphasis on aging and wellness.

Additional Requirements for MS in Nutritional Science Program

Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) Verification Statement or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (CDR) Registration

32 Units Total

Required Courses

GERO 498 – Nutrition, Genes, Longevity and Disease (4 units)
GERO 500 – Perspectives on a Changing Society an Introduction to Aging (4 units)
GERO 518 – Current Topics in Clinical Nutrition (4 units)
GERO 560 – Fundamentals of Nutrition: Micronutrients (4 units)
GERO 564 – Multiple Chronic Conditions and Older Adults (4 units)
GERO 590 – Directed Research (4 units)
GERO 593 – Research Methods (4 units)
Elective (4 units)

Master of Science in Lifespan, Nutrition and Dietetics (MSLND)

The MSLND program’s mission is to improve the lives of individuals by addressing the global need for professionals trained to provide nutrition and dietetics advice, information and recommendations. Our graduates will distinguish themselves with specialized knowledge of the nutritional needs of a global aging population. Students who complete the program are eligible to sit for the national Certifying Board for Dietary Managers (CBDM®) Credentialing Exam.

Additional Requirements for MS in Lifespan, Nutrition and Dietetics Program

Prerequisite courses must be completed before starting the program.

  • Physiology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Basic Human Nutrition or DPD Verification Statement in lieu of these 4 courses
  • All prerequisite courses must meet our minimum unit requirement in the semester system.  Courses taken on any other system, including the quarter system, must be converted to semester units.
  • Not required to complete all at USC
Prerequisites Template

38 Units Total

Required Courses

GERO 488 – Food, Culture, Disease and Longevity in Italy and the Mediterranean (4 units) OR GERO 498 – Nutrition, Genes, Longevity and Disease (4 units)
GERO 511 – Fundamentals of Clinical Nutrition Screening and Assessment (4 units)
GERO 512 – Communicating Nutrition and Health (2 units)
GERO 513 – Fundamentals of Nutrition: Macronutrients (2 units)
GERO 515 – Food Production and Foodservice Management (4 units)
GERO 517 – Advanced Therapeutic Nutrition (4 units)
GERO 560 – Fundamentals of Nutrition: Micronutrients (4 units)
GERO 590 – Directed Research (2 units)
GERO 591 – Field Practicum (4 units)
GERO 593 – Research Methods (4 units)
GERO 599 – Special Topics (4 units)

Dual Degree Programs

We have joined forces with five other professional schools at USC to offer programs in which graduates will earn two master’s degrees, gaining the knowledge and skills of gerontology as well as those of an additional professional field.

Master of Science in Gerontology (MSG) / Juris Doctorate (JD)

112 Units Total

Required Courses

Gerontology – 36 units

GERO 510 – Physiology of Development and Aging
GERO 520 – Life Span Developmental Psychology
GERO 530 – Life Span Developmental Sociology
GERO 540 – Social Policy and Aging
GERO 555 – Integrating Gerontology
GERO 591 – Field Practicum
GERO 591 – Field Practicum
GERO 593 – Research Methods
Gerontology Elective

Required Courses

Law – 76 units

LAW 502 – Procedure I
LAW 503 – Contracts
LAW 504 – Criminal Law
LAW 505 – Legal Profession
LAW 507 – Property
LAW 508 – Constitutional Law I
LAW 509 – Torts I
LAW 512 – Law, Language and Ethics
LAW 515 – Legal Research, Writing and Advocacy I
LAW 516 – Legal Research, Writing and Advocacy II
Law Electives (12 courses total)

Master of Science in Gerontology (MSG) / Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)

A dual Master of Science in Gerontology/Doctor of Pharmacy degree provides extensive education and training in the unique health care needs of older adults.

176 Units Total

Required Courses

Gerontology – 32 units

GERO 520 – Life Span Developmental Psychology
GERO 530 – Life Span Developmental Sociology
GERO 540 – Social Policy and Aging
GERO 555 – Integrating Gerontology: An Interdisciplinary Approach

Electives

Gerontology – 16 units

GERO 475 – Ethical Issues in Geriatric Health Care
GERO 496 – Introduction to Clinical Geriatrics
GERO 508 – The Mind and Body Connection through the Lifespan
GERO 519 – Recent Advances in Neurobiology and Endocrinology of Aging
GERO 522 – Counseling Older Adults and Their Families
GERO 543 – Continuum of Care: A Systems Perspective
GERO 550 – Administration and System Management in Programs for Older Adults
GERO 554 – Program Evaluation
GERO 591 – Field Practicum

Required Courses (Pharmacy – 144 Units)
Year I, Fall – 18 units

PHRD 501 Pharmaceutics I
PHRD 503 Biological Systems I
PHRD 507 Health Care Delivery Systems
PHRD 509 Pharmacy Practice and Experience I
PHRD 555 Biochemical and Molecular Sites of Drug Action

Year I, Spring – 18 units

PHRD 502 Pharmaceutics II
PHRD 504 Biological Systems II
PHRD 505 Molecular Genetics and Therapy
PHRD 510 Pharmacy Practice and Experience II
PHRD 554 Public Health and Epidemiology

Year II, Fall – 18 units

PHRD 506 Self Care and Non-Prescription Therapies
PHRD 508 Pharmacy Literature Analysis and Drug Information, OR
PHRD 561 Parenteral Therapy Externship
PHRD 551 Immunology
PHRD 557 Therapeutics I
PHRD 559 Therapeutics II

Year II, Spring – 18 units

PHRD 552 Pharmaceutics III
PHRD 553 Management within Health Care Organizations
PHRD 560 Therapeutics III
PHRD 561 Parenteral Therapy Externship, OR
PHRD 508 Pharmacy Literature Analysis and Drug Information
PHRD 562 Therapeutics IV

Year III, Fall – 18 units

PHRD 601 Therapeutics V
PHRD 603 Therapeutics VI
PHRD 605 Therapeutics VII
PHRD 607 Nutrition Elective

Year III, Spring – 18 units

PHRD 606 Therapeutics VIII
PHRD 608 Therapeutics IX
PHRD 610 Therapeutics X
PHRD 612 Therapeutics XI
PHRD 614 Pharmaceutical Economics and Outcome Studies
PHRD 616 Pharmacy Law and Ethics Elective

Year III Electives

PHRD 651 Community Pharmacy I
PHRD 652 Community Pharmacy II
PHRD 653 Health Systems Pharmacy I
PHRD 654 Health Systems Pharmacy II
PHRD 655 Geriatric Pharmacy I
PHRD 656 Geriatric Pharmacy II
PHRD 657L Basic Research Design
PHRD 658 Sleep and the Pharmacologic Management of Its Disorders
PHRD 659 Molecular Therapeutics: Signal Transduction

Year III Electives Continued

PHRD 660 Disease State Management I
PHRD 661 Pharmacy Practice in Women’s Health
PHRD 662 Psychiatric Pharmacy Practice
PHRD 663 Pharmaceutical Development
PHRD 664 Clinical Problem Solving
PHRD 665 Complementary/Alternative Therapeutics
PHRD 666 Therapeutic Drug Monitoring
PHRD 667 Drugs of Abuse
PHRD 668 Computing Application
PHRD 669 Health Care Needs of Special Populations
PHRD 670 Marketing and Development in the Pharmaceutical Industry
PHRD 677 Risk Assessment and Management in Pharmacy Practice

Year III, Fall – 18 units

PHRD 601 Therapeutics V
PHRD 603 Therapeutics VI
PHRD 605 Therapeutics VII
PHRD 607 Nutrition Elective

Year III, Spring – 18 units

PHRD 606 Therapeutics VIII
PHRD 608 Therapeutics IX
PHRD 610 Therapeutics X
PHRD 612 Therapeutics XI
PHRD 614 Pharmaceutical Economics and Outcome Studies
PHRD 616 Pharmacy Law and Ethics Elective

Year III Electives

Students must choose their electives from the following:
PHRD 651 Community Pharmacy I
PHRD 652 Community Pharmacy II
PHRD 653 Health Systems Pharmacy I
PHRD 654 Health Systems Pharmacy II
PHRD 655 Geriatric Pharmacy I
PHRD 656 Geriatric Pharmacy II
PHRD 657L Basic Research Design
PHRD 658 Sleep and the Pharmacologic Management of Its Disorders
PHRD 659 Molecular Therapeutics: Signal Transduction
PHRD 660 Disease State Management I
PHRD 661 Pharmacy Practice in Women’s Health

Year III Electives Continued

PHRD 662 Psychiatric Pharmacy Practice
PHRD 663 Pharmaceutical Development
PHRD 664 Clinical Problem Solving
PHRD 665 Complementary/Alternative Therapeutics
PHRD 666 Therapeutic Drug Monitoring
PHRD 667 Drugs of Abuse
PHRD 668 Computing Application
PHRD 669 Health Care Needs of Special Populations
PHRD 670 Marketing and Development in the Pharmaceutical Industry
PHRD 677 Risk Assessment and Management in Pharmacy Practice

Year IV, Fall

Required Clerkships
Elective Clerkships

Year IV, Spring

Required Clerkships
Elective Clerkships

Required Clerkships (6 units each) — four rotations:

PHRD 701 Acute Care Clinical Practice Clerkship
PHRD 705 Community Pharmacy Clerkship
PHRD 704 Primary Care Clerkship, or
PHRD 707 Outpatient Psychiatric Pharmacy Clerkship

An inpatient practice elective must be satisfied by PHRD 702 if the student selects PHRD 707 Outpatient Psychiatric Pharmacy Clerkship. If the student selects PHRD 702, the student may take elective clerkships marked * to satisfy the requirement.

Elective Clerkships — two rotations:

*Acceptable for satisfying the inpatient elective requirement.

PHRD 702* Inpatient Psychiatric Pharmacy Clerkship
PHRD 703 Long-Term Care Clerkship
PHRD 706 Geriatrics Clerkship
PHRD 708* Inpatient Clinical Practice Clerkship
PHRD 709* Pediatric Drug Therapy Clerkship
PHRD 710* Surgery Clerkship
PHRD 711* Cardiovascular Drug Therapy Clerkship
PHRD 712* Applied Clinical Pharmacokinetics Clerkship

PHRD 713 Drug Information Clerkship
PHRD 714 Radiopharmacy Clerkship
PHRD 715* Oncology Clerkship
PHRD 716* Ob-Gyn Clerkship
PHRD 717 Dermatology Clerkship
PHRD 718 Hospital Pharmacy Practice Clerkship
PHRD 719 Pain Management Clerkship
PHRD 720* Critical Care Clerkship
PHRD 721 Drug Utilization and Evaluation Clerkship
PHRD 722 Home Health Care Clerkship

PHRD 723* Nutritional Support Clerkship
PHRD 724 Advanced Community Pharmacy Clerkship
PHRD 725 International Pharmacy Clerkship
PHRD 726 Directed Clinical Project Clerkship I
PHRD 727 Directed Clinical Project Clerkship II
PHRD 728 Directed Clinical Project Clerkship III
PHRD 729 Directed Clinical Project Clerkship IV
PHRD 730 Acute Care Geriatrics Clerkship

PHRD 720* Critical Care Clerkship
PHRD 721 Drug Utilization and Evaluation Clerkship
PHRD 722 Home Health Care Clerkship
PHRD 723* Nutritional Support Clerkship
PHRD 724 Advanced Community Pharmacy Clerkship
PHRD 725 International Pharmacy Clerkship
PHRD 726 Directed Clinical Project Clerkship I
PHRD 727 Directed Clinical Project Clerkship II
PHRD 728 Directed Clinical Project Clerkship III
PHRD 729 Directed Clinical Project Clerkship IV
PHRD 730 Acute Care Geriatrics Clerkship

Master of Science in Gerontology (MSG) / Master of Health Administration (MHA)

78 Units Total

Required Courses

Gerontology – 36 units

GERO 510 – Physiology of Development and Aging
GERO 520 – Life Span Developmental Psychology
GERO 530 – Life Span Developmental Sociology
GERO 540 – Social Policy and Aging
GERO 550 – Administration and System Management in Programs for Older Adults
GERO 555 – Integrating Gerontology
GERO 591 – Field Practicum (1-12 units)
GERO 593 – Research Methods

Required Courses

Policy, Planning and Development – 42 units

PPD – 501a Economics for Policy, Planning and Development
PPD – 509 Problems and Issues in the Health Field
PPD – 510a Financial Management of Health Services
PPD – 512 Health Administration Residency Seminar
PPD – 513 Legal Issues in Health Care Delivery
PPD – 514 Economic Concepts Applied to Health
PPD – 515 Strategic Management of Health Organizations
PPD – 516 Financial Accounting for Health Care Organizations
PPD – 517 Concepts and Practices in Managing Health Care Organizations
PPD – 518 Quality of Care Concepts
PPD – 545 Public and Nonprofit Organizational Behavior
PPD – 558 Multivariate Statistical Analysis
PPD – 601 Management of Long-Term Care Organizations

Master of Science in Gerontology (MSG) / Master of Public Administration (MPA)

68 Units Total

Required Courses

Gerontology – 40 units

GERO 510 – Physiology of Development and Aging
GERO 520 – Life Span Developmental Psychology
GERO 530 – Life Span Developmental Sociology
GERO 540 – Social Policy and Aging
GERO 550 – Administration and System Management in Programs for Older Adults
GERO 555 – Integrating Gerontology
GERO 591 – Field Practicum
GERO 591 – Field Practicum
GERO 593 – Research Methods
Gerontology Elective

Required Courses

Policy, Planning and Development – 28 units

PPD 500 – Intersectoral Leadership
PPD 501a – Economics for Policy, Planning and Development
PPD 501b – Economics for Policy, Planning and Development
PPD 540 – Public Administration & Society
PPD 541 – Public Financial Management and Budgeting OR
PPD 645 – Financial Management of Noprofit Organizations
PPD 542 – Policy and Program Evaluation OR
PPD 557 – Modeling and Operations Research OR
PPD 545 – Human Behavior in Public Organizations
PPD 546 – Professional Practice of Public Administration
Elective (2 units)

Master of Science in Gerontology (MSG) / Master of Social Work (MSW)

73 Units Total

Required Courses

Gerontology – 32 units

GERO 510 – Physiology of Development and Aging
GERO 520 – Life Span Developmental Psychology
GERO 530 – Life Span Developmental Sociology
GERO 540 – Social Policy and Aging
GERO 591 – Field Practicum
Gerontology Elective (2 courses total)

Required Courses

Social Work – 41 units

SOWK 506 – Human Behavior and the Social Environment
SOWK 536 – Policy and Advocacy in Professional Social Work
SOWK 544 – Social Work Practice with Individuals, Familiess, and Groups
SOWK 546 – Science of Social Work
SOWK 588 – Integrative Learning for Social Work Practice
SOWK 589a – Applied Learning in Field Educaion
SOWK 589b – Applied Learning in Field Education
SOWK 630 – Diversity, Social Justice, and Culturally Competent Social Work Practice

Social Work Concentration (choose one set)

Health Concentration
SOWK 631 – Advanced Theories and Clinical Interventions in Health Care
SOWK 632 – Program Planning and Evaluation in Health Care
SOWK 636 – Social Policy: Health Care

World of Work Concentration
SOWK 671 – Clinical Intervention and Advanced Theories in Work Settings
SOWK 672 – Improving Work Life Through Social Policy and Managing Organizational Development and Change
SOWK 673 – Program Development, Training, Grant Writing and Program Evaluation in Work Settings

Mental Health Concentration
SOWK 605 – Human Development and Mental Health
SOWK 625 – Evaluation of Research: Mental Health
SOWK 645 – Clinical Practice in Mental Health Settings

Community Organization, Planning, and Administration (COPA) Concentration
SOWK 629 – Evaluation of Research: Community Organization, Planning and Administration
SOWK 639 – Social Policy for Managers, Planners and Community Organizers
SOWK 648 – Management for Community and Social Services

Master of Science in Gerontology (MSG) / Master of Business Administration (MBA)

78 Units Total

Required Courses

Gerontology – 30 units

GERO 510 – Physiology of Development and Aging
GERO 520 – Life Span Developmental Psychology
GERO 530 – Life Span Developmental Sociology
GERO 540 – Social Policy and Aging
GERO 555 – Integrating Gerontology
GERO 591 – Field Practicum
Gerontology Electives (2 courses total)

Required Courses

Business – 48 units

MOR 548 – Competitive Advantage Through People
MKT 512 – Marketing and Consumer Research
MKT 525 – Consumer Behavior
MKT 560 – Marketing Strategy and Policy
Business Elective (14 courses total)

Graduate Certificate in Gerontology

If you have a bachelor’s degree in another field or major, our certificate program gives you a greater understanding of gerontology theory and research.

Graduate Certificate in Gerontology – Residential Track

If you have a bachelor’s degree in another field or major, our certificate program gives you a greater understanding of gerontology theory and research.

16 Units Total

Core Courses (choose 3 of 4)

GERO 510 – Physiology of Development and Aging
GERO 520 – Life Span Developmental Psychology OR
GERO 522 – Counseling Older Adults and Their Families
GERO 530 – Life Span Developmental Sociology OR
GERO 585 – The Aging Family
GERO 540 – Social Policy and Aging

Gerontology Elective (4 Units)

Graduate Certificate in Gerontology – Online Track

For many high-achieving students balancing careers and families, flexibility is key to successfully integrating their professional and personal lives. With our online graduate certificate in gerontology program, you have the option to continue to work and earn your degree from anywhere in the world.

16 Units Total

Required Courses

GERO 500 – Perspectives on a Changing Society: An Introduction to Aging
GERO Elective

Core Courses (choose 2 of 4)

GERO 508 – The Mind and Body Connection through the Lifespan OR
GERO 510 – Physiology of Development and Aging
GERO 520 – Life Span Developmental Psychology OR
GERO 522 – Counseling Older Adults and Their Families
GERO 530 – Life Span Developmental Sociology OR
GERO 585 – The Aging Family
GERO 540 – Social Policy and Aging

Graduate Certificate in Gerontology / Doctor of Pharmacy

Only available for students who are already in the Doctor of Pharmacy program at USC.

24-28 Units Total

Core Courses

GERO 510 – Physiology of Development and Aging OR
GERO 508 – The Mind and Body Connection through the Lifespan
GERO 520 – Life Span Developmental Psychology OR
GERO 522 – Counseling Older Adults and Their Families
GERO 530 – Life Span Developmental Sociology OR
GERO 585 – The Aging Family
GERO 540 – Social Policy and Aging

Electives (8-12 units)

GERO 554 – Evaluation: Incorporating Evidence-Based Practices
GERO 555 – Integrating Gerontology
PHRD 655 – Geriatric Pharmacy I
PHRD 656 – Geriatric Pharmacy II
PHRD 703 – Long-Term Care Clerkship
PHRD 706 – Geriatrics Clerkship
PHRD 730 – Acute Care Geriatrics Clerkship
PHRD 731 – Advanced Geriatrics Clerkship