MSc Global Ageing (Online)

This course will provide you with an advanced understanding about the ageing of individuals and populations, the implications this has for policy, practice and the development of products and services, as well as the demands and challenges this raises. It covers content and skills development in social gerontology, ageing and population studies, dementia studies and health care and practice.

The key competencies you will gain and enhance will be in line with the highest international standards set by the Association for Gerontology in Higher Education’s Gerontological Competencies for Undergraduate and Graduate Education, a leading framework for teaching gerontology.

Top reasons to study with us

#1 Taught by internationally renowned leaders in ageing

#2 Interdisciplinary learning across policy, practice and management

#3 100% overall satisfaction for Global Ageing - Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES) 2021

Course objectives

At the end of this course, graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate an advanced understanding of theory and practice in social gerontology and ageing studies.
• Critically analyse empirical research and policy linked to ageing and the experiences of older people across the world.
• Demonstrate awareness and understanding of international best practice in supporting older people and ageing societies.
• Evidence critical thinking, problem-solving and multidisciplinarity.
• Demonstrate skills in digital learning and collaboration.

Flexible learning

The standard is two years part-time, but there are options to study at a slower pace, gaining credits on module completion.

If you’re interested in studying a module from this course, the Postgraduate Certificate or the Postgraduate Diploma then please email Graduate Admissions to discuss your course of study.

Research overview

The Faculty of Social Sciences enjoys an outstanding international research reputation. We engage with communities around the world and produce research that makes a positive difference to society.

Our world-leading research environment has been recognised in the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021). In the Social Work and Social Policy unit of assessment, we ranked 3rd in Scotland and top 25 in the UK – with 100% of our research environment and 88% of our research deemed world leading or internationally excellent.

Teaching

This course is delivered online, and you will join a virtual student community studying from around the world.

How you'll learn online

Your programme of online learning will be supported by academics and professional support staff and will combine a mixture of guided study, independent study, online discussions, group and individual activities.

We will deliver multimedia lecture materials and offer live group tutorials at mutually convenient times that recognise different time zones. We will also offer virtual ‘drop in’ sessions and individual support.

Assessment

All modules are assessed using a variety of methods including written assignments, online exams, written reports, presentations, research proposals, case studies and online discussions.

Formative assessments (plans or drafts) may be submitted at specified times during each module for feedback. A rubric will be provided for all modules containing the marking criteria.

Course director

Professor Catherine Hennessy

+44 (0)1786 467986

This course equips you with knowledge and skills that can be utilised within healthcare practice settings, informal support settings and policy or business areas associated with older people and ageing populations.

The course will also provide you with the opportunity to gain a range of transferable skills in order to enhance professional development. You will be supported to develop a personalised plan for employment and career advancement using the skills, knowledge and networks you will have developed during the programme.