Program on Adult Development and Aging

Program on Adult Development and Aging

Comprehensive and collaborative. Since 1972.

The Program on Adult Development and Aging thrives with the participation of several of the university’s schools, colleges and departments.

Courses in adult development and aging, also known as gerontology or aging studies, meet many departmental requirements, including general education and social science requirements.

The study of adult development and aging is a key focus within our undergraduate programs. Students in human development and family sciences, kinesiology, nutrition, dietetics and public health learn about this topic. It's also part of many other majors, especially for students planning careers in health, such as biochemistry/biophysics and pharmacy, or in helping professions like health administration, counseling and social work.

A group of five smiling older adults in a park setting.

48th Annual OSU Gerontology Conference

We invite you to network with colleagues as well as local, national and internationally-known gerontology professionals.

Thursday, April 17, 2025

Oregon State University Alumni Center – Corvallis, Oregon

Details and registration

Program information

The program provides

Forward thinking, compassionate and creative faculty offer multidisciplinary course work in adult development and aging to both undergraduate and graduate students alike and provide:

  • Preparation for work with older adults as a specialty within a professional area, such as human services, health care, counseling, nutrition, pharmacy and more.
  • Preparation for careers in aging programs, such as in senior centers, area agencies on aging, long-term care facilities and others.
  • General education for personal growth and understanding
  • Stimulation of faculty and student research
  • Community and continuing education

National Honor Society (Sigma Phi Omega)

Sigma Phi Omega, the national honor society in gerontology, was founded in 1980 to recognize the excellence of those who study adult development and aging. OSU’s chapter, Beta Chi, is one of 48 active chapters with over 3,000 members across the U.S. The Program on Adult Development and Aging seeks qualified candidates who wish to be considered for membership in this prestigious organization. Membership is open to undergraduate students formally working toward a aging studies certificate and graduate students with a minor in aging studies; both must have completed at least one term at OSU. Undergraduates must have a grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.30; graduate students must have a GPA of at least 3.50. Faculty, alumni, and honorary memberships are also available. For more information vist Sigma Phi Omega

Healthy Aging Club (HAC)

The Healthy Aging Club formulates a meeting schedule during the fall quarter. Undergraduate and graduate students from all academic disciplines with an interest in gerontology are invited to join. The purpose of the HAC is to provide members with opportunities for professional development within the interdisciplinary field of gerontology through social activities, networking, community service projects, and educational programs. HAC is associated with the Oregon Gerontological Association, and membership in the student club includes membership in the state organization. Contact Joe Leykam, LCSW, MSW, AH for more information.

Contact information

The Program on Adult Development and Aging is located on the campus of Oregon State University in Corvallis.

For more information, please contact Marilyn Thompson, PhD.