Adult Development and Aging Degree

Instructor leading a fitness course.

Help adults age with care and purpose

With a degree in adult development and aging, you can be a difference-maker in an aging society.

Explore age-related opportunities, changes and issues. Join a fast-growing career field where you can make the golden years brighter.

Degree options

Already have a major? You can also earn a minor in gerontology or certificate in gerontology.

Degree plan
Review a sample schedule that details your path to graduation.
Degree plan
Review this sample schedule if you want to major in adult development and aging and something else.
Degree resources
Ease your transfer process.

Backed by strong credentials and tradition

The Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education certifies us as a Program of Merit. We were the first in the nation, in 1999, to earn this distinction.

The Program of Merit designation recognizes gerontology and health profession programs that meet globally vetted criteria.

Gerontological Society of America's Program of Merit logo.

Age-Friendly University Global Network

Missouri State University is proud to be a member of the Age-Friendly University Global Network. With a focus on public affairs and diversity, Missouri State University supports student of all ages

Learn about the Annual Senior Art Exhibition

Age-Friendly Global University Network logo

Why major in adult development and aging at Missouri State?

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No other school in the state has it

Missouri State offers the only bachelor’s degree in this field in Missouri.

Student holding his diploma.

Two degrees are better than one

Increase your marketability. You can double major in adult development and aging plus another field with no extra course work.

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Enjoy close connections

Our program is small compared to others. That means you get a custom education and personal advising. You can build one-on-one relationships with your faculty, advisor and classmates.

Instructor teaching a yoga class to older adults.

Have broad career options

Adult development and aging covers many things, which prepares you for more career fields. Your knowledge can apply to areas like biology, social work, marketing, business and more. Most students have jobs before they graduate.

By the numbers

We’re an affordable, nationally recognized program. You’ll be ready to thrive in a growing career field.

Ranking

#8

Great Value Colleges for Adult Development and Aging Degrees
SOURCE: GREAT VALUE COLLEGES
Ranking

#9

Best Adult Development and Aging (Gerontology) Degrees
SOURCE: COLLEGE CHOICE
EXPECTED JOB GROWTH

6%

Expected job growth over the next 10 years (faster than average) for social and human service assistants.
SOURCE: BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS
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Careers and outcomes
People are living longer than ever. With a degree in adult development and aging, you’re prepared to meet this increasing demand for aging services.

Program resources

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