Exploring Aging Studies as an Undergraduate Student
Centre faculty teach aging studies related courses in various undergraduate programs including Canadian Studies, English Literature, Gender and Women's Studies, Geography, History, Nursing, Psychology and Sociology.
*Please consult the current Academic Calendar for an up-to-date list of course offerings*
BIOL 4250H: Cellular and Molecular Biology of Aging
Explores the cellular and molecular mechanisms that drive tissue and organismal aging. Topics include mechanisms of aging, animal model systems used to study aging, putative antiaging therapies (e.g., senolytics), and age-dependent diseases related to the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and immune systems. Prerequisite: A minimum overall average of 65% in completed BIOL courses and 10.0 university credits including BIOL 3080H.
NURS-ECON-SOCI 2015H: Critical Perspective on Aging
An introduction to aging from critical perspectives. Drawing on multidisciplinary perspectives within the Trent Centre for Aging and Society, this course provides a foundation for understanding and analyzing the meaning and significance of aging for individuals, communities, and societies. Topics include life course influences, representations and problematization of aging, and places for aging. Open to non-Nursing students. Prerequisite: 4.0 university credits.
NURS 4204H: Contemporary Issues in Aging and Health
An opportunity to develop depth and breadth of knowledge in care of older adults. Building on the first three years of study, and drawing from current clinical experience, students are encouraged to examine the challenges, implications, and effects of aging on both the individual and family. Prerequisite: A pass in NURS 3020H and 3021H; 60% or higher in NURS 3000H, 3001H, 3004H, 3031H, and 3550H; and permission of department.
PSYC 3440H: Aging and Cognition
A detailed examination of the changes in cognitive functioning that accompany the aging process. While consideration is given to the alterations in nervous and sensory systems that help explain decrements, attention is also focused on the experiential factors that lead to maintenance and improvements in many cognitive skills. Prerequisite: 8.0 university credits including PSYC 2018H, 2019H, and 2400H.
PSYC 3550H: Adult Development and Aging: Psychosocial Perspectives
Examines theory and research of aging within the framework of the life span perspective. Topics to be covered include theories of aging, lifestyle factors, personality, stress and coping, social resources, mental attitudes (optimism and personal meaning), death attitudes, and Alzheimer’s disease. Prerequisite: 8.0 university credits including PSYC 2550H.
PSYC 4580H: Applied Psychological Research Placement in Aging
Covers theories and current topics in research on issues central to aging and the chronic conditions of aging (including dementia). Students apply and integrate their learning through assignments and the Living Lab held off campus at the Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences. Prerequisite: Minimum 65% average in completed PSYC courses; 12.0 university credits including PSYC 2550H and 75% or higher in PSYC 2018H and 2019H. Offered only at Trent University Durham GTA.
SWRK 3101H: Social Work and Aging
Explores and critically assesses social work theories on aging, the elderly in Canada, the impact of oppression on the aging process, and current (as well as developing) gerontological social work practices. Investigates a range of perspectives on aging including life span theory, feminist approaches, critical race perspectives, and Indigenous knowledge(s). Prerequisite: Admission to the BSW professional years or permission of the director.
SOCI 4420H: Aging and the Lifecourse
Explores the theories, research methods, and professional development of social gerontology and critical perspectives on aging and old age. Topics include population aging, anti-aging consumerism, caregiving and social support, retirement, intergenerational relations, and end-of-life ethics. For details, see trentu.ca/sociology/courses.php/#4420. Prerequisite: 10.0 university credits including SOCI 2110H, 3151H, and 2.0 additional credits at the 3000 level of which at least 1.0 must be SOCI.
Honours Thesis
The honours thesis represents an opportunity for upper year undergraduate students to work with TCAS members on a variety of high-level research projects. Virtually every discipline can be accommodated but what you study will be determined by the availability of a supervisor with aligned interests. Get in touch - you'd be amazed at the breadth of possibility!
