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Demographic shifts among Americans, including a declining birth rate and an increasing life expectancy, have led to an ever growing older population. It is estimated that by 2030, the number of people who have reached their retirement years will approach 25% of the total U.S. population. As Americans live longer, they often require more health care. As a result, direct care and health care facility administration workers are rapidly becoming two of the largest areas of employment. Direct care work may include leading exercise classes, interviewing prospective clients, answering questions regarding hospital bills and counseling the bereaved. Administrative work frequently requires more education. Opportunities in administration include budgeting, fund raising, program evaluation and personnel administration. Both categories of professionals find employment opportunities in full service care units, hospitals, senior citizen community centers, and retirement communities. Another source of professional opportunity is the public policy arena. Governmental units at all levels need researchers and policy analysts to provide pertinent information in order to draft legislation, provide services, evaluate programs and advocate for the aging population. Other job opportunities are available in organizational settings dealing with travel, recreation, education (e.g., Elderhostel), and cultural affairs. Careers in the area of human aging should continue to grow well into the future.
Concentration Requirements (PDF: opens in a new window)
Please see the current IDS Handbook for additional information.
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