A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Gerontology is a research-oriented program that focuses on the study of aging and its impact on individuals, families, and societies. Gerontology is a multidisciplinary field that draws from several disciplines such as sociology, psychology, biology, health sciences, and public policy. The goal of a PhD in Gerontology is to train students to conduct original research that advances our understanding of aging and improves the lives of older adults. This may involve studying the biological, psychological, and social factors that influence the aging process, as well as exploring innovative approaches to promoting healthy aging and addressing the challenges faced by older adults. In a PhD program in Gerontology, students typically take courses in research methods, statistics, and interdisciplinary approaches to aging. They also work closely with faculty members to develop and conduct their own research projects, which may involve collecting and analyzing data, writing academic papers and presenting their findings at conferences.
Stream | Doctor of Philosophy |
Course | Doctor of Philosophy (ph.d.) in Gerontology |
Full Name | Doctor of Philosophy (ph.d.) in Gerontology |
Eligibility | Master in relevant Subject with 55 % marks |
Duration | 3 Years |
Fees | Updated soon |
Type | Degree |
Many PhD programs in Gerontology do not require a specific entrance exam. However, some universities may require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or a similar standardized test.
To be eligible for admission to a PhD program in Gerontology, applicants typically need to have a master's degree in a related field such as Gerontology, Sociology, Psychology, Biology, Health Sciences, or Public Policy. |
Some universities may also consider applicants with a bachelor's degree if they have relevant experience in the field. |
Applicants are typically required to submit transcripts from all previous colleges and universities attended, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a resume or curriculum vitae. |
Some universities may also require a writing sample or a research proposal. |
The duration of a PhD program in Gerontology can vary depending on the university and the student's individual circumstances. Typically, the program takes 3-5 years to complete.
1 | To apply to a PhD program in Gerontology, applicants should first research universities that offer the program and meet the eligibility requirements. |
2 | They should then complete the application process, which typically involves submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume or curriculum vitae. |
3 | Some universities may also require additional materials such as a writing sample or research proposal. |
4 | It is important to check each university's specific application requirements and deadlines. |
The application fee for a PhD program in Gerontology can vary depending on the university. The fee can range from updated Soon.
The syllabus for a PhD program in Gerontology can vary between universities, but typically includes courses in research methods, statistics, and interdisciplinary approaches to aging. Students are also expected to complete a dissertation on an original research topic related to gerontology.
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Graduates of a PhD program in Gerontology may pursue careers in academia, government, non-profit organizations, healthcare, and research institutions. Some examples of job titles for graduates include geriatrician, research scientist, policy analyst, program director, and professor. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for medical scientists, which includes geriatricians and research scientists, was $91,510 in May 2021.
The field of gerontology is growing, and there is a high demand for professionals who can address the complex challenges faced by older adults. Graduates of a PhD program in Gerontology may pursue careers in a variety of fields, including healthcare, research, policy, and advocacy. Some career opportunities include:
1 | Geriatrician |
2 | Research Scientist |
3 | Policy Analyst |
4 | Program Director |
5 | Professor |
6 | Social Worker |
7 | Healthcare Administrator |
8 | Non-profit Director |
9 | Consultant |
Some top universities offering a PhD program in Gerontology include:
Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.
Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?
ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.
Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?
ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.
Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?
ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.
Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.
Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?
ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?
ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.
Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?
ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.
Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?
ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.
Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?
ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.
Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?
ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.
Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?
ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.
Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?
ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.