Graduate Curriculum

The Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences at the graduate level offers a Master of Arts in Counseling and Gerontology. Students may also elect to complete a certificate in gerontology.

Master of Arts in Counseling

Throughout our lives, we encounter many challenges: conflicts in relationships, life transitions, emotional crises, physical illness and disability, career and educational decisions, and many more. Sometimes the challenges are exciting. Sometimes the challenges are stressful and upsetting. And sometimes, when confronted with life’s challenges, we can benefit from the insight and support of a professional counselor.

Webster University enjoys a 30-year track record in preparing students for successful careers in the counseling profession. With more than 4,000 counseling students and alumni, Webster’s counseling program has distinguished itself as a leader in mental health education.

At Webster, you will enjoy personal attention, in-depth instruction, and a real-world approach to learning that will prepare you for a career in professional counseling. We invite you to join the other dedicated students who have selected Webster University for their M.A. in counseling.

Master of Arts in Gerontology

Gerontology is the exciting study of all aspects of the aging process. While gerontologists largely examine the needs and desires of the older adult population, they also take a lifespan view of what it means to age in a given society. With the number of Americans age 65 and older expected to double from 35 to 70 million by the year 2030, the need in both public and private sectors for experts in aging will dramatically increase. Those who prepare for these demographic changes by developing a mastery of gerontological issues and concerns will be highly marketable professionals.

Webster University’s Master of Arts in Gerontology focuses on healthy aging and prepares students to work in areas that require an expertise in gerontology. Webster’s evening format, with classes held one evening per week, caters to working professionals and is geared toward the adult learner. Students taking gerontology courses learn about the physical, psychological, and social changes that occur in older people and the changes in our society resulting from an aging population through the study of a wide range of issues. Webster’s approach prepares students to apply this knowledge in the areas of direct service, consulting, program development, management, and administration.

In addition to the M.A. in Gerontology, students also have the option of choosing to earn a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) with an emphasis in Gerontology. This degree provides training in business for students interested in understanding the working nature of business as whole, with the tools and techniques applicable to a wide variety of business situations.

Students may also choose the Certificate in Gerontology (18 credit hours). This certificate is designed to expand students' marketability and skills in their chosen profession by providing a broad educational base regarding the aging of individuals and society. Students enrolled in the M.A. degree program in gerontology are not eligible to receive the gerontology certificate.

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