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Gerontology Diploma

Program Overview

The Diploma of Gerontology will provide students with the background and experience to enter the gerontological field of practice. This program is designed for students who are interested in becoming health care support workers in the public, private, and non-profit sectors.

The course is focused on developing and nurturing strong leaders in the field of aging who will be able to develop new policies, procedures, and interventions that will help improve the current standards of practice. This course uses holistic views of aging, as well as current academic research to provide students with the current best-practices in the industry. 

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Contact our admissions team today or request information on upcoming program start dates.

This program provides opportunities to gain practice skills and participate in aging interventions to improve patient care and comfort using interdisciplinary strategies and cross-cultural comparisons.

Job Opportunities

After completion of this program, the graduates will be able to work as Program assistants; Activity coordinator in Elder Care in various job settings, including:

  • Private and Public Retirement Homes;
  • Elder care/senior’s activity coordinator;
  • Community/Social Worker;
  • Lifestyle and program assistants/manager.

Program Admission Requirements

  • Grade 12 or Mature Student Status (19 years of age or more).
  • Letter of intent
  • Student’s Resume
  • 2 letters of references
  • Behavioural Interview

Students will need to submit a proof of English Language Competency by any one of the following options:

Domestic Students:

  • Grade 10 English
  • English Language Proficiency Assessment Test conducted by the College (Minimum Passing Score: 60% )

International Students:

  • IELTS 5.5 Bands or More
  • CLB Score of 6 or more
  • PTE Academic 50 or more
  • Any other English language assessment test with equivalent score
  • English Language Proficiency Assessment Test conducted by the College (Minimum Passing Score: 60% )

Before going to the practicum:

  • WHMIS
  • First Aid/CPR
  • Food Safe
  • Clear TB Test
  • Clear Criminal Record Check
  • Current Immunizations (as per checklist provided to students)

Program Duration

589 hours; 7 months; 30 weeks

Course Outline

Title of Course/Work Experience Component * # of Hours
GERO 100 Gerontology: Critical issues and Future Trends 44
GERO 150 Social Policy and Issues on Aging 44
GERO 180 Workshop Series on Aging: Current Developments in Caring for the Elderly 44
GERO 255 Directed Studies 44
GERO 285 Older Adults, Mental Health and Addictions 44
GERO 305 Practicum 1 30
GERO 295 Aging and Intersectionality 44
GERO 375 Community Based Practice with Older Adults 44
GERO 400 Advanced Practice with Older Adults 44
GERO 420 Death and Dying 44
GERO 425 Delirium, Dementia and Depression 44
GERO 500 End of Life Care and Palliation 44
GERO 350 Practicum 2 30
GERO 599 Research Project or Community Project 45
Total Hours 589

Fee Structure

# PARTICULARS FEE REMARKS
1 Registration Fee $250 Domestic Students
2 Tuition Fee $6500
3 Books $750
Total $7500
1 Registration Fee $250 International Students
2 Tuition Fee $8500
3 Books $750
Total $9500

Financial Assistance

Western Community College offers a variety of financial aid opportunities to ease students’ stress and allow them to focus on their studies. If you need extra support, we have flexible funding to accommodate all our students, no matter their financial situation.

  • BC Student Loan
  • In-house Financing
  • Student Lime of Credit
  • Scholarships

Our dedicated Financial Aid Officers will help you every step of the way.

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Why Study at Western Community College

  • Installment-based, low tuition fee.
  • 100% Practicum Placement
  • Weekday, weekend, and evening classes optionally available
  • Part-time or full-time class schedule
  • Free CLB preparation classes * Conditions Apply
  • Graduate employment rate: 97%

Admissions Contact Information

Mon – Sunday 9:00A.M. – 5:00P.M.

Surrey, BC

Unit 201 8318 120 St
Surrey, BC V3W 3N4

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