Overview
The rapidly ageing population in Singapore, and concomitant need for trained professionals in the health, social and psychological services have given rise to an imperative need for Graduate Certificate in Gerontology, Graduate Diploma in Gerontology, Master of Gerontology and PhD in Gerontology programmes. As the needs of elder people are specialised, dedicated attention within the training to address specific characteristics such as the ageing process, demands interdisciplinary courses in Gerontology.
Singapore University of Social Sciences's Master of Gerontology, with Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma and PhD option is the first in Singapore to offer a holistic training for a rewarding career in the eldercare and silver sector. Graduates from the Programme will have acquired advanced knowledge and skills to be leaders and consultants in the field of gerontology. They will be prepared to perform challenging roles and functions in both government and private sectors.
Unique Features of the Programme
- Enrol for any standalone module of your interest
- Exciting array of modules and range of lecturers from local and overseas contexts
- Blend of theoretical and practical teaching modes
- Flexible enrolment by individual modules for credits
Most importantly, what distinguishes the programme from others are that
- There are frequent tie-ups with industry partners which can help students establish valuable networks;
- Students are often informed of industry activities and even have a chance to be involved in them due to our amicable relationships with our partners;
- Students are able to do various applied projects to solve the community issues together with our partners;
- Students are able to attend international dialogues with scholars and practitioners who are passionate about ageing matters.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; therefore applicants are encouraged to submit their applications early.
The master's programme offers the following specialisations:
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Applied Research Track
Applied Research prepares students to address the problem statements that from the eldercare sector. They need to prepare themselves to find answers to things that are unknown, fill gaps in knowledge and practices and even advocate to change the related policies. If you wish to contribute to developing knowledge in the gerontology field, the research track would serve you well. -
Management Track
The management track would equip students with vital knowledge and managerial skills necessary to successfully deal with the challenges and opportunities of the changing Gerontology landscape. Specialisation courses include: GER514 Financial and Retirement Planning, GER519 Management of Eldercare Services, GER529 Managing an Ageing Workforce -
Practitioner Track
The practitioner track prepares students to deliver direct care to individuals, accomplish objectives and resolve issues on the ground with courses such as GER515 End of Life Policies, Issues and Care, GER517 Dementia Care and GER524 Case Management in Eldercare.
Subscribe to our SUSS Gerontology channel on Youtube to know more about our programme and gain more insight to the industry.
Career Prospects
The programme is recognised by the Ministry of Social and Family Development, National Council of Social Service, Ministry of Health, Gerontological Society and Workforce Development Agency. Graduates can apply for positions in government, statutory boards, profit and not-for-profit agencies and eldercare services.
Programme Structure
Students are required to complete a total of 60 credit units () with a minimum CGPA of 3.0 to graduate with a Master.
The breakdown of the to be completed is:
- 30 of Core Courses
- 30 of Electives in Specialisation Track (Practitioner, Management and Research)
GER525 Internship is compulsory for students who do not have experience in eldercare sector. If you have relevant experience in eldercare sector, kindly include a letter/email from your supervisor or HR detailing your jobscope in your application. With this documentation, you can take another course in replacement of GER525. Without submission of this document, the School will assume that you would need to take on GER525 Internship and will notify you to attend an internship briefing before the course commences.
Click here for the Study Plan.
Curriculum
Admission Requirements
Refer to general admission criteria for graduate programmes.
This programme is currently unable to take in international students, i.e., you must be a Singapore citizen, permanent resident or a resident in Singapore (e.g., Employment Pass holder) in order to apply for admission.
The programme is for professionals in the eldercare industry such as social workers, nurses, occupational and physiotherapists, counsellors and managers. It is also suitable for those who wish to switch careers and enter the eldercare/silver industry.
- How many intakes are there in a year for Graduate Diploma (GDGER)
& Master of Gerontology (MGER)?
One intake a year; every July.
- What is the duration to complete the GDGER & MGER?
GDGER is a 1-year programme and MGER is another 1-year programme.
- What is the maximum candidature for GDGER and MGER?
The maximum candidature for GDGER is 2 years and an additional 2 years for MGER.
- When are the lessons scheduled?
Lessons are mostly scheduled on 4 Saturdays per course from 8.30am to 5.30pm, with a lunch break of an hour.
- Currently, I'm currently holding a full-time job, how should I
go about completing the MGER internship?
The internship can be arranged with Singapore University of Social Sciences' appointed supervisor to accommodate to your full-time work schedule.
- How long is the duration for MGER internship?
2 semesters (1 year) usually from year 2 onwards when students have completed the 6 compulsory courses under Graduate Diploma in Gerontology. Students have to clock 200 hours within this timeframe.
- Is it the students' responsibility to look for internship partners or
will Singapore University of Social Sciences assist?
Students are advised to suggest their preferred agencies for an internship. Ultimately, Singapore University of Social Sciences will assign them with a supervisor and agency.
- How long will the dissertation take?
Students can take up to 9 months to complete the dissertation. - What happens if I do not complete the graduate programmes (e.g. Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma, Master) within the candidature period? Can I apply to take the remaining courses via CET pathway?
Students who have not completed their graduate programmes within the stipulated candidature period will not be eligible for the award of the qualification for such graduate programmes. Such students however may apply to take, via the CET pathway, the remaining courses which they did not complete under their graduate programmes as part of their personal learning and development . Such application will be subjected to the CET admission requirement. However, as such students have exceeded the candidature period for their graduate programmes, they will not be awarded the qualification for such graduate programmes even after taking and completing the remaining courses via the CET pathway (“Condition”).
PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS COURSE, IS ONE OF THE COURSES UNDER A GRADUATE PROGRAMME. THEREFORE, APPLICANTS FOR THIS COURSE ARE SUBJECT TO THE FOREGOING CONDITION. BY SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION FOR THIS COURSE, THE APPLICANT AGREES TO BE SUBJECT TO THE FOREGOING CONDITION.
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“ The proramme facilitated deep reflection on how we can better create meaningful environments that nurture our seniors to age well and holistically. It is heartening to know that with collective effort, the right tools and network, we can reverse trends such as chronic illnesses and face the future with much optimism. I am proud to be a part of the alumni network as we work closely to solve issues and serve the community lovingly and impactfully. ” MS DEAN NG |
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“ SUSS’ Master of Gerontology programme was nothing short of enriching and meaningful. The interdisciplinary, research-driven, and applied nature of pedagogy spearheaded by esteemed faculty members was pivotal in deepening my understanding of ageing issues across the systemic, familial, and individual levels. Learning alongside colleagues from diverse backgrounds across the people, private and public sectors enabled rich discourses to transpire. ” MR ARAVIINTHANSAI S/O SUBRAMANIAM |
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“ One of the most enriching aspects of the programme is the opportunity to meet a network of individuals passionate about improving the industry’s standards – lecturers, peers, and alumni alike. Collaborating with this dedicated and diverse group has expanded my perspective, and continues to be a source of inspiration long beyond graduation! ” MS YONG YOKE KAY |
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“ Gerontology research track at SUSS has been a unique experience. The curriculum provided a deep understanding of aging and its implications across spheres ranging from physiological, psychological, to economic and government & policy making. The collaborative environment within the program was a highlight, fostering meaningful connections with likeminded peers and widening my perspective about the field. ” MR HARSH SAXENA |
Financial Assistance
Concession
The University offers course fee concession for selected graduate programmes.
Please click
here for more details.
Sponsorship
Alice Lim Memorial Fund
To apply for
Lim Memorial Fund, please click
here
for more details.
Study Grant
Anonymous donors are sponsoring study grants for needy students pursuing graduate
programmes at Singapore University of Social Sciences. Please click
here for more details.
SkillsFuture Fellowships
The SkillsFuture Fellowships are for Singapore Citizens with at least 10 years
of working experience in the same, or related, industries or job functions. The
award is worth $10,000 and further details are available
here.