School of Health and Medical Professions

AT 5020 (s) Directed Study (1-16 credits, max 99)

Credit arranged

AT 5040 (s) Special Topics (1-16 credits, max 99)

Credit arranged

AT 5060 Clinical Anatomy I (3 credits)

Theory and practice of clinical anatomy as it pertains to the lower extremity through the thoracic spine.

AT 5070 Emergency Management and Care of Injuries and Illnesses (3 credits)

Theory and practice of recognition, treatment, and prevention of emergent and/or acute injuries and illnesses.

AT 5080 Evaluation and Diagnosis of Injuries and Illnesses I (4 credits)

Theory and practice of musculoskeletal evaluation and diagnosis as it pertains in the lower extremity through the thoracic spine.

AT 5090 Principles of Rehabilitation (3 credits)

Theory and practice of the scientific foundations of musculoskeletal rehabilitation.

AT 5100 Therapeutic Modalities (2 credits)

Theory and practice of therapeutic modalities including thermotherapy, cryotherapy, and mechanical modalities.

AT 5110 Ethics and Administration in Athletic Training (3 credits)

Theory and practice of ethics and administration in athletic training.

AT 5120 Research Methods & Statistics I (3 credits)

Theory and application of research methods for the health professions, including research design, research question development, ethical considerations, methods of measurement, and critical appraisal of the current literature.

AT 5130 General Medicine for Athletic Trainers (3 credits)

Theory and practice of general medical conditions related to athletic training.

AT 5140 Psychology of Injury and Referral (3 credits)

Theory and practice of the psychology of injury and referral in athletic training.

AT 5160 Diagnostic Imaging and Testing in Athletic Training (1 credit)

This course is designed to familiarize the athletic training student with diagnostic testing and imaging techniques. Conventional radiography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerized tomography (CT), as well as various selected clinical diagnostic and laboratory tests and with selected procedures as diagnostic tools with different purposes, clinical capabilities and limitations. Typically Offered: Summer.

Prereqs: AT 5080

AT 5200 Clinical Education I (2 credits)

Practice of athletic training clinical skills under the direct supervision of a preceptor with emphasis on the Level I clinical educational competencies.

AT 5210 Clinical Experience I (4 credits)

Clinical practice in athletic training under the direct supervision of a preceptor with emphasis on patient care and the safe and appropriate use of skills and techniques.

AT 5220 Clinical Education II (2 credits)

Practice of athletic training clinical skills under the direct supervision of a Preceptor with emphasis on the Level I clinical educational competencies.

AT 5230 Clinical Experience II (4 credits)

Clinical practice in athletic training under the direct supervision of a preceptor with emphasis on patient care and the safe and appropriate use of skills and techniques.

AT 5310 Clinical Anatomy II (3 credits)

Theory and practice of clinical anatomy as it pertains to the head, neck and upper extremity through the thoracic spine.

AT 5320 Evaluation and Diagnosis of Injuries and Illnesses II (4 credits)

Theory and practice of musculoskeletal evaluation and diagnosis as it pertains in the upper extremity through the thoracic spine.

AT 5330 Integrated Rehabilitation Techniques (3 credits)

Theory and practice of rehabilitation techniques as applied to individual physical pathologies.

AT 5340 Therapeutic Modalities II (2 credits)

Theory and practice of therapeutic modalities including electrotherapy.

AT 5350 Seminar in Athletic Training (1 credit)

Seminar addresses a year-one comprehensive exam process. All topics learned in the first year of the program are eligible for testing.

AT 5360 Research Methods & Statistics II (3 credits)

This course introduces quantitative research design, methods of measurement, and data analysis skills for health care professionals. Students will develop an understanding of quantitative design, while also developing skills to perform and interpret basic data analysis procedures relevant to athletic training.

AT 5400 Pharmacology for Athletic Trainers (3 credits)

Clinical pharmacology for athletic trainers as it relates to athletic training educational competencies.

AT 5410 Seminar in Athletic Training II (2 credits)

Seminar addresses a year-two comprehensive exam process. All topics learned in both years of the program are eligible for testing.

AT 5420 Scientific Inquiry and Research Presentation (3 credits)

This course will provide students with the foundational knowledge to evaluate scholarship and prepare works for scholarly dissemination. MSAT students will present their research findings to the group of faculty and students. All presentations will be graded by the faculty and be accepted or rejected.

AT 5430 Neuroscience for Athletic Trainers (3 credits)

This course will provide students foundational knowledge of neuroscience and how its application for common neuromuscular conditions (e. g. acute and chronic pain, somatic dysfunction, and motor neuron disorders) can be utilized in the clinical practice of athletic training to improve therapeutic outcomes. Students will examine and synthesize current research and case studies based on neuroscience principles and applications to ascertain the most appropriate therapeutic interventions to be utilized to improve patient healing and satisfaction.

AT 5470 Critical Issues in Athletic Training Clinical Practice (3 credits)

This course prepares students to recognize challenges and develop strategies for solving issues common in AT clinical practice.

AT 5500 Clinical Education III (2 credits)

Practice of athletic training clinical skills under the direct supervision of a preceptor with emphasis on the Level II clinical educational competencies.

AT 5510 Clinical Experience III (4 credits)

Clinical practice in athletic training under the direct supervision of a preceptor with emphasis on patient care and the safe and appropriate use of skills and techniques.

AT 5520 Clinical Education IV (2 credits)

Practice of athletic training clinical skills under the direct supervision of a preceptor with emphasis on the Level II clinical educational competencies.

AT 5530 Clinical Experience IV (4 credits)

Clinical practice in athletic training under the direct supervision of a preceptor with emphasis on patient care and the safe and appropriate use of skills and techniques.

AT 5870 Prevention and Health Promotion in Athletic Training (3 credits)

This course prepares AT students to develop and implement strategies to prevent the incidence and/or severity of injuries and illnesses and optimize patients overall health quality of life.

AT 6000 Doctoral Research and Dissertation (1-45 credits, max 99)

AT 6040 (s) Special Topics (1-16 credits, max 99)

Credit arranged

AT 6060 Professional and Post-Professional Education in Athletic Training (3 credits)

This course is designed to introduce historical background of professional and post-professional education for health care professions. Theoretical foundations and models of health care education will be compared and contrasted. The impact of educational models to health care will be explored. Development of criteria to govern the practicing professional in their chosen residency will be accomplished.

Prereqs: Permission

AT 6070 Leadership & Mentoring in AT Clinical Practice (3 credits)

This course has been designed to initiate leadership and mentoring in AT clinical practice. Topics relating to leadership and mentoring will be discussed.

AT 6100 Advances in Manual Therapy (3 credits)

Selected readings from peer-reviewed articles will be examined and discussed. Translation of research findings to current clinical practice will be emphasized.

Prereqs: Permission

AT 6110 Integrative Manual Therapy (3 credits)

Translation of research findings to current clinical practice will be emphasized. Novel intervention theories, techniques, and strategies will be presented, discussed, and practiced as related to patient care and practice based evidence.

Prereqs: Permission

AT 6200 Research Methods and Evidence Based Practice in Patient Care (3 credits)

This course introduces common research performed in patient care. Development of in-depth understanding in areas and types of research underlying quantitative research design will be explored. Introduction to critiquing literature for the purpose of developing a theoretical framework will be included.

Prereqs: Permission

AT 6210 Action Research in Patient Care (2 credits)

This course sets the foundation for action research in clinical practice. Development of a research question and justification with literature review will be employed. Purpose and methods of institutional review will be evaluated. Further discussion will elucidate the importance of becoming a scholarly practitioner.

Prereqs: Permission

AT 6220 Designing and Conducting Applied Research in Patient Care (2 credits)

This continues the process of applied research in clinical practice. Development of methods to test a chosen hypothesis will be created. Exploration of statistical methods to test the clinician’s hypothesis will be compared. Dissertation proposal will developed.

Prereqs: AT 6200 and AT 6210

AT 6230 Introduction to Survey and Qualitative Research Design in Patient Care (3 credits)

This course introduces common qualitative methodologies and survey research design in patient care.

Prereqs: AT 6200, AT 6210, and AT 6220

AT 6240 Advanced Quantitative Data Analysis and Interpretation in Patient Care (3 credits)

This course provides an in-depth analysis of quantitative research design and data analysis for health care professionals. The goal is to prepare health care students to apply quantitative research design and data analysis skills in patient care. Students will develop sound understanding of research design and be able to utilize regression, factor analysis, and multivariate data analysis skills to answer important research questions in patient care. Students will learn to interpret and disseminate their findings to other health care professionals.

Prereqs: AT 6200, AT 6210, AT 6220, and AT 6230

AT 6250 Scientific Writing for Publication in Patient (3 credits)

This course is a continuation of clinical research in healthcare and the completion of the Culminating Clinical Project (CCP).

Prereqs: AT 6200, AT 6210, AT 6220, AT 6230, and AT 6240

AT 6300 Holistic Foundations of Pain in Patient Care (2 credits)

This course explores current topics in clinical practice, related to the foundations of pain in the human body that influence quality care and methods of measurement and evaluation for quality assessment. Exploration to common instrumentation utilized by clinicians will be discussed and compared to literature utilizing the instruments for research purposes.

Prereqs: Permission

AT 6310 Theory and Application of Current and Novel Paradigms in Patient Care (2 credits)

Building on foundation of AT 6300, this course illustrates the implications of holistic theories of pain by exploring and integrating appropriate novel interventions within efficacious patient care.

Prereqs: Permission

AT 6320 Integrative Patient Care for the Spine and Pelvic Girdle (3 credits)

This course explores current topics and causes of musculoskeletal injuries to the spine and pelvis. An in-depth look at epidemiology, biomechanics, and other topics related to musculoskeletal injuries of the lumbar spine and pelvis will be emphasized.

Prereqs: Permission

AT 6330 Application of Advanced Practice Skills: A Practice-Based Approach (3 credits)

This course explores current topics of interest areas of practicing professionals. An in-depth look at theory, research, and art of the chosen interest area will be explored. Focus will be in critically analyzing areas such as anatomy, pathophysiology, biomechanics, theoretical framework, or ethical principles to explain the student's chosen topic.

Prereqs: Permission

AT 6340 Introduction to Quantitative Data Analysis and Interpretation in Patient Care (2 credits)

This course introduces quantitative research design, methods of measurement, and introductory data analysis skills for health care professionals. The goals are for students to develop an introductory understanding of quantitative design, develop skills to perform basic data analysis procedures, and begin to develop the skills to interpret findings from quantitative data analysis research projects.

Prereqs: Permission

AT 6350 Intermediate Quantitative Data Analysis and Interpretation in Patient Care (2 credits)

This course provides an in-depth analysis of quantitative research design and data analysis for health care professionals. The goal is to prepare health care students to apply quantitative research design and data analysis skills in patient care. The goals are for students to develop sound understanding of research design and be able to utilize correlational, reliability, and univariate data analysis skills to answer important research questions in patient care. Students will learn to interpret and disseminate their findings to other health care professionals.

Prereqs: Permission

AT 6400 Clinical Residency and Analysis of Patient Care I (6 credits)

This course is designed to critically assess clinical skills and improve patient care of the practicing healthcare professional in a mentor guided model. Improvement in selected areas of clinical practice will be measured via formative and summative assessment that employs quantitative measures. Impact of the skill improvement to the organization and profession will be demonstrated.

Prereqs: Permission

AT 6410 Clinical Residency and Analysis of Patient Care II (6 credits)

This course is designed to critically assess clinical skills and improve patient care of the practicing healthcare professional in a mentor guided model. Improvement in selected areas of clinical practice will be measured via formative and summative assessment that employs quantitative measures. Impact of the skill improvement to the organization and profession will be demonstrated.

Prereqs: Permission

AT 6420 Clinical Residency and Analysis of Patient Care III (6 credits)

This course is designed to critically assess clinical skills and improve patient care of the practicing healthcare professional in a mentor guided model. Improvement in selected areas of clinical practice will be measured via formative and summative assessment that employs quantitative measures. Impact of the skill improvement to the organization and profession will be demonstrated.

Prereqs: Permission

AT 6430 Clinical Residency and Analysis of Patient Care IV (6 credits)

This course is designed to critically assess clinical skills and improve patient care of the practicing healthcare professional in a mentor guided model. Improvement in selected areas of clinical practice will be measured via formative and summative assessment that employs quantitative measures do demonstrate improved patient care. Impact of the skill improvement to the organization and profession will be demonstrated. Summary of all impact of clinical residencies will be presented to the participant’s organization

Prereqs: Permission

DAS 6000 Doctoral Research (4 credits, max 12)

Students will engage in a faculty-mentored research project related to instruction, such as an educational intervention, or a project in the area of anatomical sciences thereby giving additional context to their training and career as an educator in health care professions programs. Typically Offered: Fall, Spring and Summer.

Prereqs: Students must be enrolled in the DAS program.

DAS 6001 Embryology for Anatomy Teachers (4 credits)

This class will cover the structural development of the human embryo and fetus, mainly by organ systems. Its goal is to prepare anatomy instructors so they can present this material in gross anatomy in medical schools or in anatomy or anatomy and physiology courses for undergraduate students in health programs such as nursing, physical therapy, and pharmacy. Along with normal human development, the course will cover abnormalities of development, so the students are equipped to teach birth defects. Typically Offered: Summer.

Prereqs: Students must be enrolled in the DAS program or have special permission from the course director.

DAS 6002 Introduction to Medical Imaging (2 credits)

Students will be introduced to the fundamental principles of each of the major imaging technologies currently used in the field of medicine and how these technologies complement each other. Students will also hone their skill in interpreting anatomy using different imaging modalities, and the coursework will equip anatomy instructors with the requisite knowledge to utilize medical imaging in the coursework of medical schools or other health sciences training programs. This course will build upon the anatomy and imaging content provided in previous coursework through interactive case studies, lectures, quizzes, and anatomy imaging sessions. Typically Offered: Summer.

Prereqs: Students must be enrolled in the DAS program or have special permission from the course director.

DAS 6003 Philosophical Underpinnings of Medical Education (4 credits)

Students will grapple with the philosophical foundations of education, including essential topics such as the nature of knowledge, the purposes and goals of medical education, and the social, political, and ethical considerations inherent in healthcare practice and teaching. Moreover, this course challenges participants to become reflective medical educators capable of developing and articulating their own philosophy of education. Typically Offered: Fall.

Prereqs: Students must be enrolled in the DAS program or have permission from the course director.

DAS 6004 Advanced Gross Anatomy I for Teachers (8 credits)

This is the first of two graduate courses that will cover the gross anatomy of the human body in depth, using human cadavers. Its goal is to prepare the students to become professional anatomy instructors who can teach this material in gross anatomy courses in medical, dental, or physical therapy schools. Additionally, they will be able to teach anatomy or anatomy and physiology courses for undergraduate students in health programs such as nursing, pre-med, pre-dentistry, pre-physical therapy, exercise science, and pharmacy programs. Typically Offered: Summer.

Prereqs: Students must be enrolled in the DAS program or have permission from the course director. While undergraduate gross anatomy and/or anatomy and physiology are not prerequisites, having some exposure to these subjects will be advantageous.

DAS 6005 Histology for Anatomy Teachers (4 credits)

This is an online class that will cover the microscopic anatomy (histology) of the mammalian and human body. Histology covers the body’s cells and subcellular structures, its tissues, and the microscopic structure of its organs. The goal of this course is to prepare anatomy teachers to present this material in histology courses in medical schools or in anatomy or anatomy and physiology courses for undergraduate students in health programs such as nursing, pre-physical therapy, and pre-pharmacy. Typically Offered: Fall.

Prereqs: Students must be enrolled in the DAS program or have permission from the course director. While undergraduate anatomy and physiology are not prerequisite, having some exposure to these subjects will be advantageous.

DAS 6007 Advanced Gross Anatomy II for Teachers (8 credits)

This is the second of two graduate courses that will cover the gross anatomy of the human body in depth, using human cadavers. It will directly follow Advanced Anatomy I in each summer session. The goal of these courses is to prepare the students to become professional anatomy instructors who can teach this material in gross anatomy courses in medical, dental, or physical therapy schools. Additionally, they will be able to teach anatomy or anatomy and physiology courses for undergraduate students in health programs such as nursing, pre-med, pre-dentistry, pre-physical therapy, exercise science, and pharmacy programs. Typically Offered: Summer.

Prereqs: Students must be enrolled in the DAS program or have permission from the course director.

DAS 6009 Practice in the Allied Health Professions (1 credit)

Through a blend of lectures, discussions, case studies, and collaborative projects, this seminar fosters a interdisciplinary perspectives on contemporary allied health practice for various professions (e. g. , RN, CRNA, MD/DO, PA, NP, etc. ) within the American medical system. Typically Offered: Fall, Spring and Summer.

Prereqs: Students must be enrolled in the DAS program.

DAS 6010 Curriculum Development in Medical Education (3 credits)

This course immerses students in the foundational principles of curriculum development tailored specifically for allied health professional training programs. Furthermore, students will be exposed to multiple curriculum development frameworks, equipping them with a versatile toolkit for shaping future curricula that remain responsive to evolving industry standards and educational needs. Typically Offered: Summer.

Prereqs: Must be enrolled in the DAS program.

DAS 6011 Measurement and Evaluation in Medical Education (2 credits)

This course is designed to survey principles of measurement and evaluation within the context of medical education. Students will delve into the foundations of assessment theories and methods of designing and implementing assessment tools for students in the allied health professions. Topics will encompass formative and summative student assessments, including written exams, question design, clinical evaluations, and other assessment methods such as simulation and portfolio assessment. Course assessments soliciting feedback from students will also be discussed. Typically Offered: Fall.

Prereqs: Students must be enrolled in the DAS program.

DAS 6012 Medical Neuroanatomy for Anatomy Teachers (4 credits)

This is an online course that will cover topics in neuroanatomy. Topics include functional organization of the human nervous system, neurophysiology, supporting structures, and clinical relevance of these topics for health care practitioners. Typically Offered: Fall.

Prereqs: Students must be enrolled in the DAS program or have permission from the course director.

DAS 6013 Research Methods (3 credits)

Interpretation of research design, data analysis, bias source, and clinical epidemiology, including evaluation and application of diagnostic tests, natural history of disease, and quantitative aids for clinical decision making. A theme of community health and disease is followed throughout the course, including assessment of disease risk and mechanisms of epidemic detection, spread, and control. Typically Offered: Spring.

Prereqs: Must be enrolled in the DAS program

DAS 6018 Principles of Online Course Design in Anatomical Sciences (3 credits)

This course explores the skills and knowledge necessary to craft engaging, accessible, and effective online learning environments tailored to the needs of allied health professional students. Participants will dive into key concepts, including learner-centered design, accessibility and inclusivity considerations, multimedia integration, and assessment methods for online contexts. This course will integrate concepts from previous courses. Here, we will focus on translating these concepts and optimizing them for remote learning, asynchronous contexts, and medical professions students. Typically Offered: Summer.

Prereqs: DAS 6011, DAS 6010, and must be enrolled in the DAS program.

DAS 6021 Cell Physiology (4 credits)

This course is a comprehensive study of underlying concepts common to the major cell physiology processes of the body. The course is designed for those seeking a solid grounding in cell biology and physiology. The course focuses on basic physiology of the cell and builds to understanding electrical activity, muscle physiology, and neural physiology. Typically Offered: Spring.

Prereqs: Students must be enrolled in the DAS program.

DAS 6022 Medical Physiology (4 credits)

This course is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the function, regulation, and integration of human body organ systems at a level required for clinical medicine and basic research in medical physiology. The physiology of all organ systems will be covered, with emphasis placed on a functional understanding of homeostatic maintenance in health as well as in disease processes. Core concepts of cellular chemistry, function, and signaling mechanisms will also be included. Concepts are taught using a combination of recorded lectures, clinical correlations, and online problem sets. This course is designed to provide critical knowledge for individuals who wish to teach anatomy and physiology at the post-secondary level or to equip those who wish to teach anatomy at the graduate or professional degree level with appropriate foundational knowledge related to “function”. Typically Offered: Spring.

Prereqs: Students must be enrolled in the DAS program

DAS 6023 Medical Pathophysiology (4 credits)

This course is a comprehensive study of underlying concepts common to the major pathophysiologic processes of the body. The course is designed for those interested in teaching pathology or pathophysiology or related disciplines or for health and pre-health students. The course adopts a system based approach to pathology and integrates material across systems using diseases such as cancer. Typically Offered: Varies and Spring.

Prereqs: Students must be enrolled in the DAS program or have permission from the course director.

DAS 6024 Radiology Seminar (1 credit)

This course is designed to strengthen students’ understanding of clinical anatomy and of the application of medical imaging techniques in the clinical setting. Students will be required to prepare and present online presentations of clinical radiology cases selected from the primary medical literature. Each presentation will include a set of review questions designed by the student presenter to be answered by fellow students in the course. The use of real clinical cases will help students hone their skills in interpreting normal and abnormal anatomy using various medical imaging techniques and will reinforce topics in histology/histopathology and physiology/pathophysiology covered in previous courses. The course will include a focus on the design and delivery of instructional content for online delivery along with discussions surrounding best practices in developing multiple choice test questions. This course is designed to provide critical knowledge and enhance instructional skills of individuals who wish to teach gross anatomy at the graduate or professional degree level or teach anatomy and physiology at the post-secondary level. Typically Offered: Fall.

Prereqs: Students must be enrolled in the DAS program.

DAS 6025 Point of Care Ultrasound (3 credits)

This course focuses on imparting students with a strong foundation in ultrasound physics, instrumentation, and image optimization techniques. Through hands-on sessions, learners will acquire essential skills in probe manipulation, setting optimization, and the acquisition of high-quality ultrasound images, relevant to diverse clinical scenarios Typically Offered: Fall.

Prereqs: Students must be enrolled in the DAS program.

DAS 6026 Paradigms in Med Ed (3 credits)

Students will delve into various teaching paradigms, including but not limited to traditional didactic instruction, problem-based learning, team-based learning, simulation, and technology-enhanced approaches. Emphasis will be placed on critiquing the putative strengths, limitations, best practices, and real-world challenges associated with implementing each paradigm. Typically Offered: Fall and Spring.

Prereqs: Students must be enrolled in the DAS program or have permission from the course director

DAS 6027 History of Educational Philosophy (3 credits)

This course extends upon the foundational concepts introduced in DAS 6003 by providing a historical exploration of the philosophy of education both within the realm of medicine and general education. Students will select a topic that resonates with their personal interests and develop a treatise that traces the evolution of teaching within their chosen subject. By immersing themselves in the history of educational practices, students will cultivate a deeper understanding of the ways in which teaching their subject has evolved over time, the driving forces behind these transformations, and the ensuing societal, political, or professional ramifications. Typically Offered: Fall and Spring.

Prereqs: DAS 6003 and students must be enrolled in the DAS program.

DAS 6028 Characteristics of Adult Learners (3 credits)

Recognizing that medical professionals are destined to engage in lifelong learning, this course equips educators, healthcare practitioners, and administrators with the insights and strategies required to effectively educate and engage adult learners in the ever-evolving field of medicine. Participants will explore the foundational principles of andragogy, emphasizing its application in designing curricula, fostering active learning, and cultivating self-directed, motivated, and reflective medical professionals. Typically Offered: Varies.

Prereqs: Students must be enrolled in the DAS program or have permission from the course director.

DAS 6029 Biological Basis of Sensation and Perception (3 credits)

This course content explores the biological and psychological processes that underpin human sensation and perception, including the anatomy and physiology of sensory receptors, neural pathways, and the role of the brain in processing sensory input to derive meaning. This is a self-paced course, tailored for asynchronous learners. Typically Offered: Varies.

Prereqs: Students must be enrolled in the DAS program or have permission from the course director.

DAS 6040 Special Topics (1-16 credits, max 99)

Subject matter or content may vary within specific sections across terms as indicated by the course’s title and description. Typically Offered: Fall, Spring and Summer.

Prereqs: Students must be enrolled in the DAS program. Credits to be arranged from 1-16, and the course may be repeated for credit without restriction as to maximum.

GERO 5001 Intro to Gerontology (3 credits)

This course introduces the theoretical foundations of gerontology, exploring its historical development and multidisciplinary nature. Students will examine how gerontology fits within the broader health and social service landscapes, with an emphasis on the roles it plays in addressing aging-related issues. The course also introduces key theories of aging and critical issues such as demographic shifts, policy implications, and the aging population’s impact on society. By the end of the course, students will gain a foundational understanding of gerontology’s evolution and its relevance to contemporary health and social services. Typically Offered: Fall.

Prereqs: Must be enrolled in the MS Gerontology program

GERO 5002 Research Methods in Gerontology (3 credits)

This course introduces research methods in gerontology, focusing on the fundamental concepts of research design, data analysis, and research reporting. Topics include ethics in research, sampling techniques, reliability and validity, hypothesis testing, and various study designs relevant to aging populations. Students will learn how to critically appraise research and effectively disseminate research findings. A key component of the course is the development and writing of a research proposal, applying the principles learned throughout the course. Typically Offered: Fall.

Prereqs: Must be enrolled in MS Gerontology program

GERO 5003 Biological Aspects of Aging (3 credits)

This course explores the biological aspects of aging, with a focus on the theories and science of senescence and longevity. Students will examine the distinction between normal aging processes and pathological changes in health status. Topics include the biological factors that contribute to longevity as well as the causes and consequences of age-related diseases. By the end of the course, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the biological processes underlying aging and the factors that impact healthy aging. Typically Offered: Fall.

Prereqs: Must be enrolled in the MS Gerontology program

GERO 5004 Community Engagement & Leisure Arts in Aging (3 credits)

This course explores interdisciplinary approaches to recreational therapy and leisure accessibility for older adults, focusing on how community engagement and leisure activities promote physical and mental health in aging populations. Students will examine the role of recreational therapy, arts, and leisure programs in improving quality of life, social connectivity, and overall well-being. The course emphasizes designing inclusive and accessible leisure opportunities that foster active participation and health benefits in older adults. By the end of the course, students will understand the vital role of leisure and community engagement in healthy aging. Typically Offered: Fall.

Prereqs: Must be enrolled in the MS Gerontology program

GERO 5005 Rural Health & Aging (3 credits)

This course provides an overview of the challenges and opportunities related to healthy aging and health interventions in rural settings. Students will explore the unique health care limitations faced by older adults in rural areas, including access to services, resource shortages, and social isolation. The course also covers strategies for promoting healthy aging and delivering effective health interventions in underserved rural communities. Typically Offered: Fall.

Prereqs: Must be enrolled in the MS Gerontology program

GERO 5006 Health Promotion & Preventive Care in Aging (3 credits)

This course focuses on evidence-based strategies in health education and promotion to reduce age-related injuries and illnesses and promote positive behavioral change among older adults. Students will explore key factors that maximize quality of life in aging populations, with an emphasis on preventing chronic diseases, enhancing physical and mental well-being, and encouraging healthy lifestyles. Through the application of gerontological theories and public health approaches, students will gain the knowledge and skills needed to implement effective health promotion interventions tailored to the needs of older adults. Typically Offered: Spring.

Prereqs: Must be enrolled in the MS Gerontology program

GERO 5007 Mental & Cognitive Health in Aging (3 credits)

This course explores the complex topic of mental and cognitive health in aging. The first half covers psychological health in older adults and evidence-based interventions to promote mental well-being. The second half focuses on cognitive aging, including cognitive decline and neurodegenerative conditions. Students will gain an understanding of both mental health challenges and cognitive changes, as well as strategies for supporting older adults' psychological and cognitive well-being. Typically Offered: Spring.

Prereqs: Must be enrolled in the MS Gerontology program

GERO 5008 Designing and Evaluating Programs for Aging Populations (3 credits)

This course explores the key components of program development and implementation science in gerontology, focusing on stakeholder engagement, fundraising, and grant writing. Students will learn to apply evidence-based practices to create and implement effective programs that address the diverse needs of older adults. The course also covers evaluation techniques to assess program outcomes and ensure sustainability, equipping students with the skills needed to design, manage, and evaluate impactful aging-related initiatives. Typically Offered: Spring.

Prereqs: Must be enrolled in MS Gerontology program

GERO 5009 Seminar on Aging in the Arts (3 credits)

This seminar explores the portrayal of aging in the media and the arts, examining both accurate and inaccurate depictions of older adults. Students will critically analyze how aging is represented in various forms of media, including film, literature, visual arts, and popular culture, and assess the cultural and social implications of these portrayals. The course will also explore the influence of media and the arts on societal perceptions of aging and the potential for positive representation to challenge stereotypes. By the end of the course, students will develop a nuanced understanding of aging in the arts and its impact on society's views of older adults. Typically Offered: Spring.

Prereqs: Must be enrolled in MS Gerontology program

GERO 5010 Pharmacological Management for Older Adults (3 credits)

This course equips healthcare providers to deliver safe, effective, and individualized pharmacotherapy for the aging population. It is designed to enhance understanding of medication management for older adults. Students will learn about the physiological changes that impact pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, focusing on minimizing harm through careful medication selection and administration. Participants will explore evidence-based strategies to manage polypharmacy, identify and deprescribe high-risk medications using tools like the Beers Criteria, and prevent adverse drug reactions. The curriculum also covers drug interactions, optimizing adherence, and managing common geriatric conditions. Typically Offered: Spring.

Prereqs: Enrolled in MS Gerontology program

GERO 5011 Integrative Capstone I: Applied Research & Practice (1 credit)

The integrative capstone course allows students to apply their gerontological knowledge by completing a faculty-directed project that addresses a real-world issue related to aging. Through projects such as service-based initiatives, program development, or other approved fieldwork, students will conduct an in-depth literature review to identify and analyze evidence-based practices. This review will inform the development and implementation of their capstone project in the next semester, grounding it in current gerontological research and best practices. Typically Offered: Spring.

Prereqs: Must be enrolled in MS Gerontology program

GERO 5012 The Ethics of Aging (3 credits)

This course explores the ethical issues surrounding aging, with a focus on the social determinants of health and the cultural factors that influence the aging experience in the U. S. Students will examine how historical and societal factors have shaped aging populations, as well as the ethical principles guiding care for vulnerable groups. The course also covers legal frameworks such as ADA and elder law, ensuring the rights and safety of older adults. By the end of the course, students will understand the ethical and cultural considerations critical to providing equitable care in aging. Typically Offered: Summer.

Prereqs: Must be enrolled in MS Gerontology program

GERO 5013 The Business of Geriatric Care Management (3 credits)

This course reviews the business and ethical principles of geriatric care management, focusing on the delivery of care across various levels of aging services, from independent living communities to intensive long-term care models. Students will explore key operational, financial, and ethical considerations in managing geriatric care, including client advocacy, care coordination, and navigating regulatory frameworks. The course also covers business strategies for managing geriatric care practice and ensuring high-quality care for older adults in diverse settings. By the end of the course, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the business operations and ethical challenges in geriatric care management. Typically Offered: Summer.

Prereqs: Must be enrolled in the MS Gerontology program

GERO 5014 Integrative Capstone II: Project Implementation & Evaluation (2 credits)

The Integrative Capstone II builds on work completed in GERO 5011 by allowing students to implement and evaluate a gerontology-focused project under the guidance of a faculty sponsor. In this course, students will apply their gerontological knowledge and skills to address real-world challenges related to aging populations, demonstrating the integration of theoretical and practical content from their coursework. This culminating experience provides students with the opportunity to assess the effectiveness of their project, make data-driven adjustments, and showcase their ability to apply evidence-based gerontological principles to improve outcomes for older adults. Typically Offered: Summer.

Prereqs: Must be enrolled in MS Gerontology program