GERONTOLOGY PROGRAM
GRADUATE HANDBOOK
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
9201 University City Boulevard
Charlotte, NC 28223-0001
Dr. Dena Shenk, Program Director & Graduate Coordinator
Barnard 222
Telephone: (704) 687-5091
dshenk@uncc.edu
Program Office (704) 687-5534
Fretwell 245B
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS…………………………………………………………………..1-2
GENERAL INFORMATION……………………………………………………………...3
OBJECTIVES…………………………………………………………………………….. 4
ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE…………………………………………………… 5
Organization of UNC Charlotte………………………………………………....... 6
Internal Organization of Gerontology Program…………………………………… 7
REQUIREMENTS……………………………………………………………….………..8-13
MASTER’S PROGRAM………………………………………………………… 8
Admission requirements………………………………………………..…..8
General requirements……………………………………………………… 8
Course requirements………………………………………………………. 9 - 11
GRADUATE CERTIFICATE PROGRAM…………………………….............. 12-13
OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE STUDENT………………………………….. 14
THE PROCESS OF WORKING WITH YOUR GRADUATE COMMITTEE…….... 15-16
THESIS & APPLIED PROJECT GUIDELINES……………………………………… 17-18
GRADUATE COMMITTEE…………………………………………………………….. 19
RECOMMENDED PROGRESSION THROUGH MA………………………………... 20-21
Full-time…………………………………………………………………… 20
Part-time…………………………………………………………………… 21
PRACTICUM……………………………………………………………………………... 22
COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION…………………………………………………. 22
ADMINISTRATION……………………………………………………………………... 23-24
NMR GRADUATE SCHOLARSHIP…………………………………………………… 25-26
GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPS……………………………………………………….. 27
CALENDARS……………………………………………………………………………... 28-29
2
CAMPUS INFORMATION……………………………………………….……………... 30-31
Activities Center (see Creation Station)…………………………………… 30
Audiovisuals (see Media Services)………………………………………… 30
Career Services…………………………………………………………….. 30
Creation Station……………………………………………………………. 30
Counseling Center…………………………………………………………. 30
Disability Services…………………………………………………………. 30
Evening Services…………………………………………………………… 30
Graduate Student Association…………………………………………….. 30
Gym………………………………………………………………………… 31
Health Center………………………………………………………………. 31
Housing…………………………………………………………………….. 31
In-State Tuition…………………………………………………………….. 31
Learning Center……………………………………………………………. 31
Library……………………………………………………………………… 31
Printing……………………………………………………………………... 31
Writing Assistance…………………………………………………………. 31
FACULTY…………………………………………………………..…………………….. 32-37
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY………………………………………………………………. 38
APPENDIX A……………………………………………………………………………... 39
Checklist of requirements for Gerontology MA Students…………………………….. 40-41
Checklist of requirements for Gerontology Graduate Certificate Students…………… 42
APPENDIX B……………………………………………………………………………... 43
Application for Thesis or Applied Project Option…….……….………………………. 44
Application for Admission to Candidacy (MA).…………………………….…….…... 45
Application for Admission to Candidacy for Graduate Certificate……………………. 45
Application for Degree……………………………………………………………........ 45
Thesis/Applied Project Topic Approval……………………………………………….. 45
Report of Comprehensive Examination, Project or Thesis Defense ………………….. 45
3
GENERAL INFORMATION
Welcome to the Graduate Program in Gerontology at the University of North Carolina at
Charlotte. This Handbook is designed as a supplement to the general University Catalog.
Information in the general catalog is relevant to all students at UNC Charlotte, and you should
familiarize yourself with that information. We further recommend that you read this Handbook
as you begin your graduate career and keep it as a reference for the future. If you have questions
that are not answered by the general catalog or this Handbook, please consult with the
Gerontology Program Director.
The Gerontology Program is an interdisciplinary program in the College of Liberal Arts and
Sciences.
Gerontology Office: Fretwell 245B
Gerontology Phone Number: 704-687-5534
Dr. Dena Shenk, Director of the Gerontology Program and Graduate Coordinator, is a Professor
in the Department of Anthropology. Her office is in that Department (Barnard 222) and she can
be reached at 704-687-5091.
Other faculty members are located in their home departments. (see list beginning on page 32).
Please visit the program’s home page at http://www.gerontology.uncc.edu
4
OBJECTIVES
The Master of Arts in Gerontology is designed to prepare graduates with the knowledge and the
skills to fill a wide variety of positions in the developing field of aging. We currently offer the
Planning and Administration concentration which will best meet the needs of those planning to
direct programs for older adults, and those interested in the development and administration of
programs.
General objectives of the MA in Gerontology are:

to prepare graduates with the knowledge and skills to fill a wide variety of positions
in the developing field of aging;

to provide both a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary understanding of the processes of
normal aging of the rapidly growing and diverse population of older adults in
North Carolina, the U.S. and internationally;

to provide students with a background in current theory and research in the field of
Gerontology;

to provide students with an understanding of the formal and informal systems of support
through which we address the needs of older adults.
The Graduate Certificate Program in Gerontology was designed to provide supplementary
graduate education in Gerontology for those who already have a graduate degree in another field
or those completing a graduate degree in another field, who are interested in working with older
adults. It requires the completion of a set of core and elective courses related to the study of
aging.
The Graduate Programs are both interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary. Interdisciplinary
Gerontology courses will integrate materials from various disciplines. Multidisciplinary courses
will also be included, requiring students to study aging from a variety of disciplinary
perspectives. The core of essential material included in the required course sequence will be
augmented by selection of elective courses in an individually designed program for each graduate
student.
5
ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE
The Graduate Program in Gerontology at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte is an
interdisciplinary program of the College of Arts and Sciences. The Dean of the College of
Liberal Arts and Sciences is, in turn, responsible to the Provost and Vice Chancellor for
Academic Affairs. The University is headed by a Chancellor, responsible to the Board of
Trustees for the University and to the President of the entire University of North Carolina system
and the system’s Board of Governors.
The Director of the Gerontology Program administers the Undergraduate and Graduate Programs
in Gerontology. The Director of the Gerontology Program is also the Graduate Coordinator.
Another faculty member is the Undergraduate Coordinator. Full-time faculty who teach in the
Gerontology Program are housed in discipline-based departments throughout the university. In
addition, adjunct faculty with particular subject expertise will teach courses on an occasional
basis.
The Gerontology Advisory Committee works with the Program Director to develop procedures
and standards for the graduate programs in Gerontology.
The affiliated faculty includes faculty from across campus with interests and expertise related to
aging. Faculty teach in the program and are available to work with Gerontology Graduate
students, student representatives and professionals from the community.
6
ORGANIZATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA
AT CHARLOTTE
Organization of the University of North Carolina
BOARD OF GOVERNORS
University of North Carolina System
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
University of North Carolina Charlotte
CHANCELLOR
University of North Carolina Charlotte
VICE CHANCELLOR
FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS
ASSOCIATE VICE CHANCELLOR
FOR GRADUATE PROGRAMS
DEAN
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
GRADUATE COORDINATOR
Gerontology Program
DIRECTOR
Gerontology Program
UNDERGRADUATE COORDINATOR
Gerontology Program
7
INTERNAL ORGANIZATION OF THE GERONTOLOGY
PROGRAM
Dean College of Arts and Sciences
Dean
College of Liberal Arts
and Sciences
Director and Graduate Coordinator
Director
and Graduate
Gerontology Program
Coordinator
Gerontology Program
Gerontology Advisory
Gerontology
Advisory
Committee
Committee
Graduate Admissions Committee
Graduate
Admissions
Committee
Affiliated Faculty
Gerontology
Faculty & Affiliated
Faculty
Scholarship Committee
NMR NMR
Scholarship
Committee
Dean College of Arts and Sciences
Dean College of Arts and Sciences
Undergraduate Coordinator
Undergraduate
Coordinator
Gerontology Program
Gerontology Program
Gerontology Advisory Committee
Gerontology Advisory Committee
Director and Graduate Coordinator
Program
DirectorGerontology
and Graduate
Coordinator
Gerontology Program
Graduate Admissions Committee
Graduate Admissions Committee
NMR Scholarship Committee
NMR Scholarship Committee
Undergraduate Coordinator
Gerontology Coordinator
Program
Undergraduate
Gerontology Program
ntology Advisory Committee
ntology Advisory Committee
Affiliated Faculty
Affiliated Faculty
8
REQUIREMENTS
Master’s Program
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Minimal requirements for admission to the Master’s Program in Gerontology include:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Completed application accompanied by a non-refundable application fee.
Possession of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
Two official transcripts of all previous academic work attempted beyond high
school.
Appropriate scores on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or Miller
Analogies Test (MAT).
An overall grade point average of at least 2.75 on applicant’s previous
work beyond high school. The average of the major or basic courses
prerequisite to the area of proposed graduate study should be 3.0 or higher.
At least three evaluations from persons familiar with the applicant’s
personal and professional qualifications.
An essay describing the applicant’s experience and objectives in
undertaking graduate study in Gerontology.
Prerequisites:
Completion of at least one broad-based undergraduate course in
Gerontology or completion of the Professional Development Program
previously offered by the Office of Continuing Education, Extension
and Summer Programs at UNC Charlotte.
Statistics and appropriate background in research methods is required
as a prerequisite for GRNT 6201. (STAT 1222, Elementary Statistics
for the Social Sciences or the equivalent is recommended).
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
The Gerontology Master’s Program requires 36 hours of graduate course work. In general, a
maximum of six graduate hours earned prior to admission to the graduate program may be
applied to the program requirements, subject to approval of the Director of the Gerontology
Program. In addition to course work, each student must successfully complete an oral
comprehensive exam, a Practicum and either a thesis or applied project (see either Option (a) or
Option (b) on page 10.)
9
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
The Master's Program in Gerontology is structured into three parts:
I. Courses
II. Either the thesis or non-thesis option and
III. Electives Coursework.
Both options require a total of 36 semester hours of graduate credit for completion of the degree.
I. CORE COURSES
The following 21 credits of common core courses are required:
+ Gerontology 6600. Current Issues in Gerontology (3G credits). Study of current
issues and topics in the field of aging from an interdisciplinary perspective; an ethical
framework will be used to examine the issues. (Fall).
+ Sociology 6130. Sociology of Aging: Theories and Research (3G credits).
Application of stratification theories and demography are applied specifically to the
older population. Issues of race, gender, socio-economic status, age, and geographic
distribution are examined in order to investigate the diversity of the older age group and
their access to resources. (Spring)
+ Psychology 6124. Psychology of Aging (3G credits). Particular emphasis on issues
related to community/clinical psychology and industrial/organizational psychology.
Topics include myths and stereotypes about aging, problems faced by older workers,
retirement, mental health and normal aging, counseling the older adult, and
psychological disorders in later life. (Fall)
+ Nursing 6275. Health Promotion and Wellness for Older Adults (3G credits).
Self-care measures and health promotion practices to promote a healthy lifestyle are
discussed. Included are principles of teaching and learning adapted to the elderly client
needed by health care and other professionals who teach and plan programs for the older
client. Common barriers to health care for the elderly are examined.
OR
Kinesiology 5232. Physiology of Human Aging (3G credits). This course focuses on
the normal physiological alterations that occur as the human progresses from a young
adult to the latter stages of life. Special attention is given to interventions commonly
promoted to combat the physiological changes that result from aging.
10
+ Gerontology 6201. Research and Methods in Aging I (3G credits). Prerequisite:
Statistics. Examination of the variety of qualitative and quantitative methods used in
research on aging and analysis of Gerontology research from a range of disciplines.
Students will develop a working draft of their thesis/applied project proposal. (Fall)
+ Gerontology 6202. Research and Methods in Aging (3G credits). Prerequisite:
GRNT 6201. Examination of the variety of qualitative and quantitative methods used in
evaluation research in applied settings. Students will develop an evaluation project plan.
Students will also refine their thesis/applied project proposal. (Spring)
+ Gerontology 6400. Practicum (3G credits). Completion of a field-based educational
experience which relates to the student's career goals and objectives. (Summer)
After completion of the required core courses, all students must successfully complete an
oral comprehensive examination. For both thesis and applied project students, this will
occur at the same time as the defense of their thesis or project.
II. EITHER OPTION (A) OR (B)
In addition to these core courses students will complete either:
(a) the thesis option
This entails nine hours of elective credits chosen with the advice and approval of the
student's academic advisor and six hours of thesis credits and an oral defense.
Thesis students will develop a working draft of their proposal as part of the course
requirements for GRNT 6201. (See thesis/applied project guidelines, page 16)
Students must apply for admission to the thesis option before completing GRNT 6201
(form in Appendix B).
The Thesis involves a major project, usually an original research project. It will be
coordinated with the student's major interests and practical experience to allow the
development of an area of specialization. The Thesis must conform to the University
Guidelines for Master’s Theses.
(b) or the non-thesis option (Applied Project)
This entails 15 hours of elective courses chosen with the advice and approval of the
student's academic advisor. Three elective credits will generally be earned for the Applied
Project, taken as GRNT 6800 – Independent Research Study.
11
The Applied Project involves an original project that addresses a specific problem in the
applied field. It will be coordinated with the student’s major interests and practical
experience to allow the development of an area of specialization. The audience of an
Applied Project is generally others in the applied field.
This option requires that students design a working draft of an Applied Project proposal
in conjunction with GRNT 6201 and 6202. Topics developed with the support and
approval of the student’s Graduate Committee. (See thesis/non-thesis applied project
guidelines, page 17).
Students must apply for admission to the applied project option before completing GRNT
6201 (form in Appendix B).
III. ELECTIVE COURSES
Students will select elective courses with the advice and approval of their advisor and the
Program Director.
Elective choices include:
GRNT 5050.
Topics in Gerontology
(1-4G)
GRNT 5250.
Programs and Services for the Aging
GRNT 6800.
Independent Research Study
(3G)
(can be repeated, up to 6 credits can be counted towards MA electives)
KNES 5232
Physiology of Human Aging
(3G)
(3G)
MPAD/GRNT 6210. Aging and Public Policy
(3G)
MPAD/GRNT 6211. Administration of Aging Programs
(3G)
NURS 6115.
Health Planning in the Health Care System
(3G)
NURS 6276.
Common Illnesses Associated with Older Adulthood
(3G)
MPAD 6172.
Administration of the Health Care System
(3G)
SOCY 5134.
Families and Aging
(3G)
12
Graduate Certificate Program
The Graduate Certificate Program in Gerontology requires the completion of a minimum of 15
semester hours of graduate course work related to aging and older adults including:
- a required course
-
a choice of primary and secondary electives.
I. REQUIRED COURSE
+ Gerontology 6600. Current Issues in Gerontology (3G credits). Study of current issues
and topics in the field of aging from an interdisciplinary perspective; an ethical framework
will be used to examine the issues. (Fall)
II. PRIMARY ELECTIVES
Choose 2-3 from the following:
+ Kinesiology 5232. Physiology of Human Aging (3G credits). This course focuses on
the normal physiological alterations that occur as the human progresses from a young adult
to the latter stages of life. Special attention is given to interventions commonly promoted to
combat the physiological changes that result from aging. OR
+ Nursing 6275. Health Promotion and Wellness for Older Adults (3G credits). Selfcare measures and health promotion practices to promote a healthy lifestyle are discussed.
Included are principles of teaching and learning adapted to the elderly client needed by
health care and other professionals who teach and plan programs for the older client.
Common barriers to health care for the elderly are examined.
+ Psychology 6124. Psychology of Aging (3G credits). Particular emphasis on issues
related to community/clinical psychology and industrial/organizational psychology. Topics
include myths and stereotypes about aging, problems faced by older workers, retirement,
mental health and normal aging, counseling the older adult, and psychological disorders in
later life. (Fall)
+ Sociology 6130. Sociology of Aging: Theories and Research (3G credits). Application
of stratification theories and demography are applied specifically to the older population.
Issues of race, gender, socio-economic status, age, and geographic distribution are examined
in order to investigate the diversity of the older age group and their access to resources.
(Sociology)
13
III.
SECONDARY ELECTIVES
Choose 1-2 from the following:
GRNT 5050.
Topics in Gerontology
(1-4G)
GRNT 5250.
Programs and Services for the Aging
(3G)
MPAD/GRNT 6210.
Aging and Public Policy
(3G)
MPAD/GRNT 6211.
Administration of Aging Programs
(3G)
MPAD 6218.
Public Policy Analysis & Program Evaluation
(3G)
NURS 6115.
Health Planning in the Health Care System
(3G)
NURS 6276
Common Illnesses Associated with Older Adulthood
(3G)
SOCY 5134.
Families and Aging
(3G)
Secondary electives may also be chosen from other appropriate courses as offered, with the
approval of the Gerontology Graduate Program Coordinator.
14
OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE STUDENT INCLUDE:
______
1) Furnish program with current mailing address, email address and telephone
number (each time it changes).
______
2) Remove any conditions of admission and confer with the Gerontology Program
Director when these conditions have been met.
______
3) Satisfy prerequisite requirements before enrolling in courses (e.g. Statistics
before GRNT 6201).
______
4) Confer with Program Director or advisor before advance registration each
semester. (We will try to work with students in the Gerontology Graduate
Programs to get you admitted to required courses.)
______
5) Select a graduate committee by the completion of GRNT 6201, Research and
Methods in Aging I. Your individually-designed graduate committee will
supervise your program of study.
______
6) Complete application for thesis or applied project form and have it signed by
your Advisor and submitted to the Graduate Coordinator before completing
GRNT 6201.
______
7) Seek Human Subjects approval by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) before
undertaking thesis or applied project research.
______
8) Complete oral comprehensive examination in conjunction with your thesis or
applied project defense.
______
9) File application for "Admission to Candidacy" form no later than the end of the
semester before expected graduation. Check course schedule for the exact
deadline. Forms are available on line on the Graduate School Website and should
be turned into the Gerontology Program office when completed. It will list all
courses that are to be applied to degree requirements.
______
10) File "Application for a Degree." Check course schedule for the exact deadline.
Forms are available on line on the Graduate School Website and should be
returned to the Registrar's office when completed after paying the required fee to
Student Accounts. It must be filed each semester (i.e., if you filed for May
graduation and did not graduate, you will have to re-file for an August
graduation).
______
11) Earn overall GPA of 3.00 and follow all Graduate School guidelines.
15
THE PROCESS OF WORKING WITH YOUR GRADUATE COMMITTEE
Having formed your Graduate Committee during the semester you are enrolled in Research and
Methods I, you will work with these individuals through the development of your applied project
or thesis proposal and completion of your applied project or thesis. The Chair of your Graduate
Committee will serve as your Adviser throughout the process of planning and completing your
applied project or thesis. Open communication with your committee Chair is essential.
Working with Your Graduate Committee:
Typically, you will meet with your Graduate Committee Chair and your Chair will review drafts
of your proposal and later your project or thesis. Your Chair may suggest that you confer with
other members of your Graduate Committee regarding specific issues or aspects of your project
or research. You can, of course, choose to confer with other committee members, but should
inform your committee Chair that you plan to do so. This is intended to make the process
smoother and ensure effective communication.
Preparing for a Defense:
When your committee Chair believes that your Applied Project or Thesis Proposal (and later
your Applied Project or Thesis) is ready to defend, she/he will suggest that you give a copy to
each member of your Graduate Committee. This version of your Proposa1 project or thesis will
be the "defense version" and you should not make changes after you have given a copy to the
members of your committee. It is important that each individual be working with the same
version of your proposal/thesis or project. Changes can be made, with the advice of your
Graduate Committee, and, in fact, are likely to be required.
Scheduling a Proposal, Applied Project or Thesis Defense:
Your committee Chair will suggest possible days and times for your committee to meet and you
should then contact the other members of your committee to determine the most convenient time
for the meeting. You are responsible for scheduling the meeting and reserving a conference
room.
What to expect at your Proposal or Applied Project/Thesis Defense:
The members of your Graduate Committee will gather at the time and place you have
arranged. The Chair of your Graduate Committee will ask you to begin by giving an oral
presentation of your proposal, project or thesis. You should discuss this with your committee
Chair in advance to be sure you understand what is expected. The members of your Graduate
Committee will then discuss your proposed or completed project. You will be asked to leaveroom at the end of your defense to allow the members of your committee a chance to discuss
their recommendations and the outcome. When you return, you will be advised of the outcome.
A plan will be presented for the completion of any changes or further work that is being required.
16
Human Subjects Review Board:
Be sure to determine whether your applied project or thesis research requires review by the
Human Subjects Review Board. Forms and guidelines are available on the University's
website. Questions should be discussed with your committee Chair who will often advise
you to confer with Ms. Cat Runden in the Office of Research. IRB approval of your project or
thesis is required before your committee can approve your proposal.
Comprehensive Exam:
The Gerontology Program requires oral comps that are generally scheduled along with the
Applied Project or Thesis Defense. After your Defense, you will return to the room and complete
your comps during the second hour. The members of your Graduate Committee will take turns
asking you questions that will allow you to demonstrate your knowledge of the field of
gerontology in relation to your Applied Project or Thesis research. You cannot study for your
comps, but should prepare by thinking about your project in the context of what you have learned
throughout the MA program
Expectations:
Please be reasonable in your expectations of your Graduate Committee and sensitive to other
demands on faculty members' time. Remember that you should typically give faculty two weeksto review a proposal, project or thesis. Exceptions can be made, and the members of your
committee will work with you, but you should never expect or assume a quicker turn around. It
is helpful to inform your committee Chair when you are preparing to turn something in,
particularly during the busiest times of the semester. Typically, for example, the end of the
semester is a particularly intense time (you are probably not the only person racing to meet a
deadline)- and effective communication becomes even more essential.
17
THESIS
Description:
A Master's Thesis is a demonstration of your ability to apply the knowledge
and skills you have learned in graduate school to a concrete empirical
problem. A thesis requires you to develop an argument and support your main
points with some form of evidence. The evidence may be empirical data that
you collect (either quantitative or qualitative) or secondary data that already
exist. The audience is your professional colleagues, and your thesis should
add to the existing body of knowledge in the gerontological literature and
include a review of the literature. The thesis should have the potential to be
presented at a professional conference and/or published in an academic
gerontology journal. You must apply and be admitted to the thesis option; this
process must be completed during the semester you are enrolled in Research
and Methods I.
Objectives:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
To demonstrate an ability to conduct independent research (either a quantitative or
qualitative study).
To demonstrate an ability to articulate an empirical research problem and
methodology appropriate to the investigation of that problem.
To defend an argument using appropriate factual information, and to demonstrate an
ability to interpret these facts.
To demonstrate good writing and communication skills. You must follow a
standard format; the APA guidelines are recommended.
To complete a final product (thesis) with the potential for presentation at a
professional conference and/or publication in an academic gerontology journal.
Assessment:
The successful completion of your thesis will be determined by:
1. timely completion of the objectives listed above, (beginning with the development of a
thesis committee with whom you will establish your timeline for completion)*; and
2. Oral defense of your completed work to your thesis committee, which must pass by a
majority vote that includes the vote of the committee chairperson.
3. You must also refer to the Graduate School Thesis Guidelines and meet the requirements
of the UNC Charlotte Graduate School.
.
Reminders:
You must apply and be admitted to the thesis option before you complete GRNT 6201.
 All work completed towards a degree program must be completed within six years. This
includes all coursework and the thesis.
18
NON-THESIS/APPLIED PROJECT OPTION
Description:
The non-thesis, applied project option allows you to demonstrate your ability to
apply the knowledge and skills you have learned in graduate school to a
problem/issue related to the practice of gerontology. This option requires
you to articulate a problem/issue in the field of aging and to develop an
argument and plan for the investigation of the problem/issue. The audience
is the professional group for whom you are designing your project. The
product of the non-thesis option should have the potential to be presented at
a professional conference and/or published in a professional gerontology
journal.
Objectives:
1. To demonstrate an ability to articulate a problem or an issue within the field of
aging (i.e., organizational, practical, ethical, etc..).
2. To determine the methodology appropriate to the investigation of the chosen
problem/issue.
3. To develop a proposal to address the investigation of the chosen problem/issue
incorporating both the relevance of the problem /issue and the potential benefit of its
investigation.
4. To demonstrate good writing and communication skills.
5. To complete a final product (i.e., a final report, a teaching module, an informational data
base, a small-scale community organization or focus group, etc.) appropriate to the
project. The format of the final product is determined through careful consideration and
intensive interaction with your graduate committee.
6. To complete a project with the potential for presentation at a professional conference
and/or publication in a professional gerontology journal.
Assessment: The successful completion of the non-thesis option will be determined by:
1. timely completion of the objectives listed above, (beginning with the development of a
graduate committee with whom you will establish your timeline for completion)*; and
2. oral defense of your completed work to your graduate committee, which must pass by a
majority vote that includes the vote of the committee chairperson.
3. You must also meet the requirements of the UNCC Graduate School.
Reminders:
* All work completed towards a degree program must be completed within six years. This
includes all coursework and projects.
You must apply and be admitted to the Applied Project option before you complete GRNT 6201.
19
DEVELOPMENT OF YOUR GRADUATE COMMITTEE
Whether you choose the thesis option or the non-thesis option, you are expected to develop
a graduate committee to assist you and to oversee your progress. Working with your advisor, you
should establish your committee during the semester you are enrolled in Research and Methods I.
A graduate committee generally includes three individuals who are all members of the UNC
Charlotte Graduate Faculity. In most cases, each of the members of your committee will be a
member of the Gerontology faculty (see list in the Graduate Handbook). In certain cases and
with the approval of your advisor, you may seek a committee member with a particular area of
expertise who is not affiliated with the Gerontology Program.
All three committee members have an equal vote in assessing your thesis or non-thesis product.
Hopefully, there will be consensus regarding the “passing” of your final product. In any case,
your completed work must pass by a majority vote that includes the vote of the committee
chairperson.
Chair:
This is the person who you will work with most closely as you meet the
objectives of your option and accomplish necessary related tasks. This
individual will chair meetings of your committee. Future publications based on
your thesis or applied project will generally include your chairperson as a coauthor.
Other Committee Members:
These individuals will also work with you as you meet the objectives of
your option and accomplish the necessary related tasks. Although not
chairing your committee, their input will have weight and must be taken into
consideration. Input should be sought from each of your committee members as
appropriate, during the process of completing your work.
In most cases, each of the members of your committee will be a member of the
Gerontology faculty (see list in Graduate Handbook). In certain cases, you may
seek a committee member with a particular area of expertise who is not affiliated
with the Gerontology Program.
20
RECOMMENDED PROGRESSION THROUGH MA IN GERONTOLOGY
FULL-TIME
Year 1
FALL
GRNT 6600. Current Issues in Gerontology
PSYC 6124. Psychology of Aging
SPRING
SOCY 6130. Sociology of Age: Theories &
Research
NURS 6275. Health Promotion and Wellness for
Older Adults
KNES 5232. Physiology of Human Aging
(Elective)
(Electives)
SUMMER
GRNT 6400. Practicum*
(Elective)
Year 2
FALL
GRNT 6201. Research and Methods I
Elective
(Elective)
SPRING
GRNT 6202. Research and Methods II
GRNT 6999. MA Thesis (3-6 cr) OR
GRNT 6800. Independent Research Study (3 cr)
(Applied Project)
Notes: If each of the recommended courses is not available during a given semester, you will be
assisted in selecting an appropriate elective.
You are encouraged to take advantage of summer and other occasional offerings in order
to move through the program in a timely fashion.
* Required 150 hours may be completed over a varying period of time and when you
register for these credits will be determined with your Faculty Supervisor.
21
RECOMMENDED PROGRESSION THROUGH MA IN GERONTOLOGY
PART-TIME
If you can take only one course each semester, you will generally select the course listed first.
Year 1
FALL
GRNT 6600. Current Issues in Gerontology
PSYC 6124. Psychology of Aging
KNES 5232 Physiology of Human Aging OR
SPRING
SOCY 6130. Sociology of Age: Theories &
Research
NURS 6275. Health Promotion and Wellness for
Older Adults
SUMMER
(Elective)
Year 2
FALL
Elective
(Elective)
SPRING
(Elective)
SUMMER
GRNT 6400. Practicum*
Year 3
FALL
GRNT 6201. Research and Methods I
(Elective)
SPRING
GRNT 6202. Research and Methods II
GRNT 6999 or GRNT 6800
(Elective)
Notes: If each of the recommended courses is not available during a given semester, you will be
assisted in selecting an appropriate elective.
You are encouraged to take advantage of summer and other occasional offerings in order
to move through the program in a timely fashion.
*Required 150 hours may completed over a varying period of time and when you register
for these credits will be determined with your Faculty Supervisor.
22
PRACTICUM
Each student in the Gerontology Master’s Program is required to complete a professional field
experience in the aging field. This experience is meant to provide additional hands-on
experience for those who are relatively new to the field or to broaden the experience of those
with extensive practical experience working with older adults. Each student will work with
his/her advisor to design a Practicum which will meet his/her specific needs.
Please refer to the Gerontology Graduate Practicum Handbook for complete guidelines.
COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION
The oral exam will be held in conjunction with the proposal defense of the thesis or nonthesis/applied project. For students writing a thesis, the Comprehensive Examination will
take place at the same time as the Thesis Proposal Defense. For students completing a nonthesis/applied project, the Comprehensive Examination will take place at the same time as
the Applied Project Proposal Defense. The exam will be held during the second portion of
the meeting after you defend your thesis or applied project proposal. While the Proposal
Defense is open to "the public," only the student and his/her Graduate Committee will be
present for the Comprehensive Exam. You will be told the results of the exam at the
conclusion.
You must pass all of the exam questions in order to earn your Master's degree. The grading
options for each question are "High Pass," "Pass," "Low Pass," and "Fail." In order to
pass, you cannot earn more than one “Low Pass.” In the case of failing one question, you
may be allowed to prepare an essay answering the question, if you have not received a
“Low Pass” on any other questions. With this option, you cannot receive more than a “Low
Pass” for that question and if you get more than one low pass you have failed. If a student
fails the oral exam, s/he will be allowed to retake it one time and the questions may be
revised.
Be sure to talk with your Graduate Committee Chair in advance of your Proposal Defense
about how to prepare for the Comprehensive Exam.
23
ADMINISTRATION
ADVISOR
The Gerontology Program Director will serve as initial advisor to each student admitted to the
Graduate Program in Gerontology. She will assist the student in development of a program of
study. In addition, she will evaluate any requests for transfer credit and determine if other
courses should be required.
GRADUATE COMMITTEE (MA students only)
Each student in the MA Program will establish a graduate Committee while s/he is enrolled in
GRNT 6201. The Chair of the Graduate Committee will serve as the student’s advisor for the
duration of the graduate program. You will work with your Graduate Committee to complete the
requirements of either Option (a) or (b).
ELECTIVE AND TRANSFER CREDIT
If the Gerontology Program Director judges the course appropriate to the student's program of
study, credit from the following sources may be applied, with written approval, toward the 36
hour requirement. A total of six hours may be transferred.
1. Course(s) eligible for graduate credit from other UNC Charlotte programs.
2. Transfer credit from other universities will be accepted in accordance with University
regulations. Generally, the Gerontology Program will accept up to six semester hours of
graduate work from other accredited institutions for which the student received a B or better.
Such credits will be accepted at the discretion of the Gerontology Program Director and must be
consistent with the student's overall program of graduate study.
TIME LIMIT FOR COMPLETION OF THE MA DEGREE
All work offered for the master’s degree, including accepted transfer credit, must be completed
within a six-year period. The six-year period begins with enrollment in the first course to be
applied towards the Gerontology Master’s degree.
24
POST BACCALAUREATE STATUS
With permission from the Gerontology Program Director, students will receive credit for courses
taken as a post baccalaureate student while seeking admission to the Graduate Program in
Gerontology. A maximum of six credits can be taken as a post baccalaureate student before being
admitted to a graduate program.
25
NMR GERONTOLOGY GRADUATE SCHOLARSHIP
The UNC Charlotte Gerontology Program is pleased to announce the annual NMR Gerontology
Graduate Scholarship. A $1,000 scholarship will be awarded each year to a student in the
graduate program in Gerontology at UNC Charlotte.
The NMR Gerontology Graduate Scholarship is named for three women...
Nora Bell Crum Nelms (1881-1958)
Willie Minerva Davis Wimberly (1884-1969)
Ruth Katherine Drummond Dorminey (1901-1991)
These three women lived in a time and place where the idea of graduate education did not exist.
Had they lived today, it is likely they would have attained advanced degrees. Because they were
extraordinary women who graced their ordinary worlds with their talents and intelligence, who
reared their children to value education just after God and family, and who contributed a legacy
of highly educated descendants to the world, this scholarship is named in their honor. They
would have been pleased at the thought of helping other people obtain an education that would
make our ordinary world better.
Criteria for Awarding the Scholarship
The NMR Gerontology Program Graduate Scholarship Committee will take all of the following
into consideration: applicant's academic and professional achievement and goals that reflect
dedication to the field of Gerontology; and financial need.
To be eligible, the student must be admitted to the Graduate Program in Gerontology (either the
MA or Graduate Certificate Program) at the time of application.
The scholarship recipient must complete a minimum of six credits during the academic year of
the award and remain active in the program.
Instructions to Applicants
The deadline for submission of the completed application is June 1.
All materials must be received before the application deadline.
A completed application consists of the following materials:
1) Cover sheet with full name, address, telephone number (fax number and e-mail address
optional), student ID number and the names, titles, addresses and telephone numbers of the
people from whom you have requested letters of reference.
26
2) Personal essay of 300-500 words describing your academic and professional achievements
and goals that reflect dedication to the field of Gerontology; (both paid and unpaid activities
are relevant), your plans for the scholarship year if you are awarded the scholarship, what the
scholarship would enable you to accomplish and why you are the best candidate.
3) Three letters of reference. At least one should be from a faculty member at UNC Charlotte
(who is not on the Scholarship Committee). These letters should evaluate your academic
achievement, interest and involvement in Gerontology, and other strengths.
4) A completed financial aid form. The applicant should apply for Financial Assistance by
completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and mail the form in the
envelope included with the application. The forms can be obtained from the Office of
Financial Aid, 110 King Building.
All items must be typed. Items 1 and 2 should be submitted by you to the Gerontology Program
Office (Barnard 222). Item 3 should be sent by the letter-writers directly to the Gerontology
Program Director. Item 4 should be mailed in the envelope included with the Financial
Assistance application. All items must be received by June 1.
The NMR Gerontology Graduate Scholarship Committee will evaluate the applications and make
the final decision regarding the awardee.
Submit application materials to:
Dr. Dena Shenk
Director and Graduate Coordinator, Gerontology Program
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
9201 University City Blvd.
Charlotte, NC 28223
27
GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPS
A number of opportunities for employment are available on and off campus including those
available through the Gerontology Program. Check the Graduate School website for a listing of
available Graduate Assistantships:
http://www.uncc.edu/gradmiss/gs_assistantships.
Graduate Assistantships require that you complete the "APPLICATION FOR GRADUATE
ASSISTANT" form which can be obtained in the Gerontology Office, the Graduate School
Office (Admissions Building), or online. Include your resume with this form. Before beginning
work as a graduate assistant, the student's application is approved by the Office of the Dean of
the College of Arts and Sciences. "THE RECOMMENDATION FOR APPOINTMENT TO A
GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIP" must be filled out by the supervisor who is hiring you.
28
Fall 2013-Spring 2014 Graduation Deadline Calendar
Fall 2013
August 19:
First day of classes
August 28:
DEADLINE for graduate students to apply for Fall 2013 graduation
August 28:
DEADLINE to file candidacy forms for Fall 2013 graduation
(this is now done online – see instructions below)
Student directions to the electronic Candidacy Application:
Log into 49er Express.
Select Banner Self Service, Student Services, Student Records and Apply for Candidacy for Graduate
Students.
After completing all sections, the application is printed and taken to the department for the Graduate
Coordinator’s approval signature.
December 13:
DEADLINE to deposit Master’s thesis with Graduate School
December 13:
DEADLINE to deposit Applied project with Gerontology Program
December 4:
Last day of classes
December 14:
December Commencement
Spring 2014 *
January 8:
First day of classes
January 17:
DEADLINE to file candidacy forms for May 2014 graduation
January 17:
DEADLINE for graduate students to apply for May 2014 graduation
May 9:
DEADLINE to deposit Master’s thesis with Graduate School
May 9:
DEADLINE to deposit Applied project with Gerontology Program
April 29:
Last day of classes
May 10:
May Commencement
*This calendar will be updated as dates are received for other activities from other University departments
and the Graduate School. Be sure to check the website for updates*
29
CAMPUS INFORMATION
Activities Center - (see Cone University Center)
Audiovisuals - Media Services provides help to students with a wide variety of audio and visual
communications services, including drymounting, transparencies and films. Stop by J. Murray
Atkins Library or call 687-2435.
Career Center - The University Career Center assists in developing job seeking skills (resume
writing, interviewing techniques, etc.) Obtaining internships, and full-time career positions.
Special programs and workshops are offered throughout the year; call 687-2231 (150 Atkins), for
more information.
Creation Station - The hours of operation are 10:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday
with location in the Cone Center breezeway. Offers a service to the students, faculty and staff.
Stocks a selection of balloons for campus delivery as well as offers banner making, buttons,
posters, graphic work, mat cutting, laminating, etc. Call 687-2923 for further information.
Counseling Center - Counseling Center (158 Atkins, 687-2105) provides personal and career
counseling as well as a variety of educational workshops, such as Assertiveness Training,
Building Self-Esteem, Career and Life Planning, Stress Management, coping as a Minority, etc.
These services are free to any student faculty or staff member. Go to the Counseling Center to
register for workshops.
Disability Services - Office of Disability Services (230 Fretwell, 687-4355) provides a broad
range of services for students who have disabilities. Documentation is required for permanent
and temporary disabilities and accommodations are determined based on the student's
documentation, course work and academic needs and goals.
Evening Services (OASES) - Evening services (106 Barnard, 687-2596) are provided after 5:00
p.m. Services are provided from offices of the Registrar, Admission, Learning Center, Academic
Advising, Disability Services and many other offices on campus.
Graduate and Professional Student Association - The GPSA is chartered by the Student
Government Association (SGA), and it serves as the official organization for all UNC Charlotte
graduate students. The purposes of the GPSA include: 1) establishment of an appropriate voice
for graduate students; 2) assistance with their special emotional, intellectual and physical needs;
and 3) liaison with the administration and faculty. All graduate students are welcome to attend
the monthly meetings held in the Cone Center. A free meal is always provided. The GPSA has
some funds to assist graduate students with travel expenses when the student is presenting a
paper at a scholarly or professional meeting. If you have any questions or want to get involved,
contact The SGA at 687-4606.
30
Gym - The Gymnasium is open for student use throughout the week at night, and on weekends. It
has basketball courts, an Olympic size swimming pool, handball and Squash courts, weight and
training rooms and lockers. Call 687-4800 (facilities) or 687-2448 (Equipment Checkout) for
more information.
Health Center - Brocker Health Center (located across the street from the Gym, 687-4617) offers
comprehensive medical services, including routine medical services, health education, birth
control, orthopedic consultation and a sports medicine clinic. In most cases, services are free or
require only a nominal fee. Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, during regular school term. Full
service 9 am to 5 p.m. weekdays. Health Center services are available only during semesters in
which you are actually enrolled for a source credit. For example, if you don't take a course during
a summer session, you cannot get health care during that session.
Housing - Most graduate students live off campus, but Residence Life identifies a building of
eight apartments in Hunt Village which will be set aside for the assignment of graduate students.
This space will be held until June 1. After that date, space in the building that has not be
requested by a graduate student will be assigned to a non-graduate. Interested students will need
to contact Residence Life for a housing contract as early in the academic year as possible. Call
687-2585.
In-state tuition - It may be worthwhile for out-of-state students to carefully examine the
University Catalog and the regulations and practice of the Admissions Office regarding
Residence Status for tuition purposes to determine possible eligibility for in-state tuition.
Learning Center – Offers preparation workshops for GRE and many other types of workshops.
Located in Fretwell, 3rd Floor, 687-2162.
Library - The Library has an on-line book check-out system and public service terminals. Private
study carrels are available.
Printing - Printing and duplicating can be done on campus. Call 687-2054.
Writing Assistance - Writing Resources Center (Fretwell, Room 220) is a service provided by the
English Department to help students develop and refine their writing abilities. Call 687-4357.
31
FACULTY
(The Gerontology Office is located in Fretwell 245B and the telephone number is 704-687-5534)
This is a listing of the current Gerontology Graduate faculty, along with their primary
areas of research and teaching in Gerontology.
Anita Blowers, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice, 5079 Colvard, 687-6469,
anblower@uncc.edu
Ph.D. State University of New York at Albany,
Areas of interest: Criminal justice policy, criminal courts, organizational theory, crime
and the elderly.
William Brandon, Metrolina Medical Foundation Distinguished Professor of Public Policy on
Health and Professor of Political Science, 455-D Fretwell, 687-3886, wilbrand@uncc.edu
B.A., Johns Hopkins University; M.Sc., University of London;
M.P.H., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Ph.D., Duke University
Diane Brockman, Associate Professor of Anthropology(Biological), 217 Barnard, 687-6864,
dkbrockm@uncc.edu
Ph.D., Yale University
Evolution and comparative ecology of life history, aging, and reproductive senescence in
human and nonhuman primatres.
Allison Burfield, Assistant Professor, School of Nursing, 412C CHHS, 687-7966,
aburfiel@uncc.edu
Ph.D., BSN, University of Central Florida
Outcomes research focused on pharmacotherapeutics/safe medication use, falls
prevention, mental health, interdisciplinary care corrdination, and health policy.
Maria-Carla Chiarella, Lecturer, Department of Psychology, Colvard 4031, 687-4761,
Chiarella@uncc.edu.
Positive aging, specifically identifying effective coping skills related to adjustment to mid
life transitions, enhancement of long-term relationships, and management of grief and
bereavement.
Maren Coffman, Assistant Professor of Nursing, RN, MSN, 423A CHHS, 687-7979,
mjcoffma@uncc.edu
PhD, Nursing, University of Connecticut, Storrs
Teaching and Research Interests: adult health nursing, cultural care in nursing
32
Boyd H. Davis, Bonnie E. Cone Professor of Teaching, Professor of English, 255-A Fretwell,
687-4209, bdavis@uncc.edu
PhD University of North Carolina
Areas of Interest: Sociohistorical linguistics, Narrative and discourse analysis, Language
across the lifespan , Corpus analysis. Director of Project MORE (DOE/OELA).
Christine S. Davis, Associate Professor, Department of Communication Studies, 5001 Colvard,
687-6638, Christine.s.davis@uncc.edu
PhD University of South Florida
Areas of Interest: Health communication, communication and aging, end-of-life
communication, family disability.
Mark Faust, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, Colvard 4041,687-1341
mefaust@uncc.edu
PhD University of Oregon.
Areas of Interest: Cognitive processes, with a focus on the role of cognitive control
processes in attention, language, and memory.
Scott Gordon, Professor and Chair, Department of Kinesiology, 226-A Belk Gym, 687-0855,
scott.gordon@uncc.edu.
PhD Pennsylvania State University.
Hormonal and Molecular mechanisms of skeletal muscle remodeling in response to
aging, muscle disuse, and overloading/resistance exercise.
Cynthia Hancock, Lecturer and Service Learning Coordinator for the Gerontology Program,
Department of Sociology, 460-F Fretwell, 687-4080, chancock@uncc.edu.
Ph.D. in Sociology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Teaching and Research interests: Family Sociology, Gender Studies, Intergenerational
Relations, Qualitative Methods
Aravind Kailas, Assistant Professor, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering,
Woodward Hall 230E, 687-0146, Aravind.kailas@uncc.edu
Ph.D. Georgia Institue of Technology
Diversity techniques and decentralized cooperative protocols in energy-constrained
networks, energy harvesting and power-aware system design for wireless networks,
pervasive health care and body area networks (BANs), m-Health solutions for smart
health and well-being.
33
Martin Kane, Associate Professor of Civil Engineering and Adjunct Associate Professor of
Gerontology, 140 Cameron Applied Research, 687-4890, mrkane@uncc.edu.
B.S., M.S., Ph.D., Michigan State University
Susan Kennerly, Professor of Nursing and Director-Graduate Division, School of Nursing, 420
CHHS, 687-7992, skenner2@uncc.edu.
PhD University of Texas at Austin.
Occupational culture, pressure ulcer prevention in older adults, leadership and
organizational effectiveness, workplace safety and health.
James N. Laditka, Associate Professor, Health Services Research, 481 CHHS, 687-6122,
jladitka@uncc.edu.
Ph.D., M.P.A., Syracuse University
Areas of Interest: Access to health care for people in vulnerable groups, long-term care,
healthy life expectancy, health disparities.
Sarah B. Laditka, Associate Professor, Public Health Sciences, 427E CHHS, 687-8926,
sladitka@uncc.edu.
Ph.D., M.A., M.B.A., Syracuse University
Areas of Interest: Formal and informal long-term care, healthy life expectancy for older
people, public health preparedness for frail and disabled older populations, and access to
primary health care for people in vulnerable groups.
Lisa Merriweather, Assistant Professor, 360-A COED, 687-8740, lmerriwe@uncc.edu
Ph.D., University of Georgia
Adult learning with a primary focus on racial inequity and social justice.
Trudy Moore-Harrison,
tlmoore2@uncc.edu.
Lecturer
&
Practicum
Supervisor,
239
Belk,
687-6030,
Ph.D., University of Georgia
Areas of interest: Physical Activity and Genetics, community-based exercise for older
adults, physical function of older adults.
Louise Murray, Adjunct professor, UNC Charlotte Gerontology Program, lmmurray@uncc.edu
MA Gerontology, University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Research Interests: Alzheimer’s disease and the family, Clinical education; Informal
caregiving and long term care
34
Jane Neese, Associate Dean, College of Health and Human Services, 476 CHHS, 687-8645,
jbneese@uncc.edu
Ph.D. University of Virginia
Research Interests: gerontological nursing; medically ill and vulnerable elderly; rural
elders and health outcomes of various models of service delivery.
Amy Peterman, Associate
ahpeterm@uncc.edu
Professor
of
Psychology,
4028
Colvard,
687-4764,
Ph.D., University of Pittsburgh
Research Interests: Quality of life in chronic and terminal illness, impact of
illness on life goals, age differences in death and dying issues.
Dena Shenk, Director and Graduate Coordinator of the Gerontology Program and Professor of
Anthropology, Barnard 222, 687-5091, dshenk@uncc.edu
Ph.D. University of Massachusetts, Amherst
Teaching and Research Interests; aging in cultural and environmental context, women and
aging, direct care workers, and people with dementia.
Dorothy Smith-Ruiz, Associate Professor of African-American and African Studies, 130
Garringer, 687-2367, dsruiz@uncc.edu
Ph.D. Michigan State University at East Lansing
Research Interests: minority aging; health and social behavior of older adults.
Jamie Stickland, Lecturer in Geography and Earth Sciences, 446 McEniry, 687-5971,
jstrickl@uncc.edu
MA, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, PhD candidate, University of North
Carolina Charlotte
M. Lori Thomas, Assistant Professor, College of Health and Human Services, CHHS 499A,
687-7037, mthom117@uncc.edu
Ph.D. Virginia Commonwelath University
MSW, Virginia Commonwealth University
Rosie Tong, Mecklenburg County Medical Society Distinguished Professor of Health Care
Ethics, Professor of Philosophy, and Director of the Center for Professional and Applied
Ethics, 105-A Winningham, 687-2850, rotong@uncc.edu
B.A., Marygrove College; M.A., The Catholic
University of America; Ph.D., Temple University
35
Meredith Troutman Jordan, Assistant Professor, College of Health and Human Services, 444B
CHHS, 687-7973, mflood@uncc.edu
Ph.D., University of South Carolina at Columbia
Successful aging, psychiatric mental health of older adults, health promotion of older
adults, creativity in older adults
Jennifer Troyer, Associate Professor of Economics, Adjunct Faculty of Public Health Sciences,
211B Friday, 687-7599, jtroyer@uncc.edu
Ph.D., M.S. Florida State University, BBA, University of Memphis
Long-term care quality, skilled nursing facility regulation and costs, long-term care
reimbursement policy
Jillian Tullis, Assistant Professor of Communication Studies, 5009 Colvard, 687-6613,
jowen22@uncc.edu
Health communication (patient/provider), communication on health care teams, spiritual
communication and heatlh (including across the lifespan), communication at the end of
life.
Michael J. Turner, Associate Professor of Kinesiology, 240-B Belk Gymnasium, 687-4698,
miturner@uncc.edu
Ph.D. University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Teaching and Research interests: The cardiovascular and metabolic alterations that occur
in the healthy and diseased older adult population.
Jan Warren-Findlow, Associate Professor, College of Health and Human Services, Department
of Health Behavior and Administration, 427-B CHHS, 687-7908, jwarren1@uncc.edu
Ph.D. University of Illinois, Chicago, MBA Lehigh University.
Research Interests: aging, health disparities, chronic illness self-care, older women’s health,
cardiovascular disease, illness beliefs, qualitative research methods, feminist perspective
Diane Zablotsky, Director, Levine Scholars Program and Professor of Sociology, 349 Cone
Center, 687-0070, dlzablot@uncc.edu
Ph.D. University of Maryland
Research and Teaching Interests: aging and the family; healthcare and aging; impact of
HIV on the elderly and social support networks in retirement communities.
36
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
From the UNCC Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog
The UNCC Code of Student Academic Integrity governs the responsibility of students to
maintain integrity in academic work, defines violations of the standard, describes procedures for
handling alleged violations of the standard, and lists applicable penalties. The following conduct
is prohibited in the Code as violating those standards:
A. Cheating. Intentionally using or attempting to use unauthorized materials, information,
notes, study aids or other devices in any academic exercise. This definition includes
unauthorized communication of information during an academic exercise.
B. Fabrication and Falsification. Intentional and unauthorized alteration or invention of any
information or citation in an academic exercise. Falsification is a matter of altering
information, while fabrication is a matter of inventing or counterfeiting information for use in
any academic exercise.
C. Multiple Submission. The submission of substantial portions of the same academic work
(including oral reports) for credit more than once without authorization.
D. Plagiarism. Intentionally or knowingly presenting work of another as one's own (i.e.,
without proper acknowledgment of the source). The sole exception to the requirement of
acknowledgment sources is when the ideas, information, etc., are common knowledge.
E. Abuse of Academic Materials. Intentionally or knowingly destroying, stealing or making
inaccessible library or other academic resource material.
F. Complicity In Academic Dishonesty. Intentionally or knowingly helping or attempting to
help another to commit an act of academic dishonesty.
37
APPENDIX A
38
MASTER’S PROGRAM IN GERONTOLOGY
CHECKLIST
Name
Student ID:
Begin Program
Core:
Semester
GRNT 6600 Current Issues in Gerontology
NURS 6275 Health Promotion and Wellness
PSYC 6124 Psychology of Aging
SOCY 6130 Sociology of Aging
GRNT 6201 Research and Methods in Aging I
GRNT 6202 Research and Methods in Aging II
GRNT 6400 Practicum
Electives:
Cont’d Page 2
Grade
39
MASTER’S CHECKLIST
Page 2
Student ID
Option (1)
Admitted to Thesis Option
Thesis Proposal Defense
Oral Comprehensive Exams
Thesis Defense
Semester
Credits
Grade
Semester
Credits
Grade
GRNT 6999
GRNT 6999/7999
plus 9 hours of electives
Option (2)
Admitted to Applied Project Option
Applied Project Proposal Defense
Oral Comprehensive
Applied Project Defense
GRNT 6800
plus 12 hours of elective credits
Graduate Committee:
_________________________________________Chair
40
GRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN GERONTOLOGY
CHECKLIST
Name
Student ID
Begin Program
Core:
GRNT 6600 Current Issues in Gerontology
Primary Electives (2-3):
NURS 6275 Health Promotions and Wellness
PSYC 6124 Psychology of Aging
SOCY 6130 Sociology of Aging
Secondary Electives (1-2):
Checked by:
Approved:
Semester
Grade
41
APPENDIX B
42
Master’s Program in Gerontology
Application for Thesis or Applied Project Option
Name
Date
Social Security
Courses Completed
Semester
GRNT 6600 Current Issues in Gerontology
SOCY 6130 Sociology of Aging
PSYC 6124 Psychology of Aging
NURS 6275 Health Promotion & Wellness
Proposed Focus
Thesis
Graduate Coordinator
Applied Project
Date
Grade
43
The following forms are available online:
Application for Admission to Candidacy for Graduate Certificate
Application for Degree
These will be provided by the Committee Chair at the time of defense:
Thesis/Applied Project Topic Approval
Report of Comprehensive Examination, Project or Thesis Defense