Students increase their theoretical and practical knowledge of issues affecting older people. The programme is specifically designed for people who work with older people.
Applicants must have completed a university degree in a health or social science subject, but work experience is also taken into account.
The programme is 30 ECTS and is organised as one year of part-time study.
The programme is made up of:
Mandatory courses:
Elective courses:
This programme is taught in Icelandic and English but most textbooks are in English or other foreign languages, in particular Nordic languages.
The programme aims to meet the demand for specialised knowledge and skills in the field of gerontology. Students acquire theoretical and practical knowledge of issues affecting older people and the factors that influence policy and management in this area.
Credits from this programme may be transferred to a Master's programme, on the condition that admission requirements are met.
The applicant shall have a university degree in the field of health or social sciences (BA, B.Ed., BS). In general, a first grade is mandatory. A summary describing the applicant’s work experience should be attached to the application as work experience is one factor considered. Also attached to the application should be your employer’s consent to study alongside work if applicable. The supervisors approval should be sent to
30 ECTS credits have to be completed for the qualification.
Further information on supporting documents can be found here
Check below to see how the programme is structured.
This programme does not offer specialisations.
The course will present gerontology as a multi-professional discipline with an emphasis on social gerontology. The main concepts and research methods will be introduced. Formal and informal care will be discussed. Personal meaning and well-being in the social contexts of later adulthood and old age will be explored and methods to enhance personal meaning will be introduced. Emphasis is placed on deepening student’s understanding by helping them become more adept at working with other professions on elderly welfare issues.
The course is taught an intensive session.
Attendance in the intensive session is required.
The goal of this course is to deepen students' knowledge of gerontology and geriatrics. The social, biological and psychological aspects of aging will be discussed. Services for older adults will be discussed in general as well as caring for special needs. Icelandic and international research will be presented. Various theories in gerontology will be examined and their effects on attitudes towards and services for older people. Cross discipline teamwork will be discussed with emphasis placed on working with various professions.
The course will present gerontology as a multi-professional discipline with an emphasis on social gerontology. The main concepts and research methods will be introduced. Formal and informal care will be discussed. Personal meaning and well-being in the social contexts of later adulthood and old age will be explored and methods to enhance personal meaning will be introduced. Emphasis is placed on deepening student’s understanding by helping them become more adept at working with other professions on elderly welfare issues.
The course is taught an intensive session.
Attendance in the intensive session is required.
The goal of this course is to deepen students' knowledge of gerontology and geriatrics. The social, biological and psychological aspects of aging will be discussed. Services for older adults will be discussed in general as well as caring for special needs. Icelandic and international research will be presented. Various theories in gerontology will be examined and their effects on attitudes towards and services for older people. Cross discipline teamwork will be discussed with emphasis placed on working with various professions.
Changes may occur for the autumn semester in August and September and for the spring semester in December and January. You will find your final timetable in Ugla when the studies start.
Note! This timetable is not suitable for planning your work schedule if you are a part-time employee.
The University of Iceland collaborates with over 400 universities worldwide. This provides a unique opportunity to pursue part of your studies at an international university thus gaining added experience and fresh insight into your field of study.
Students generally have the opportunity to join an exchange programme, internship, or summer courses. However, exchanges are always subject to faculty approval.
Students have the opportunity to have courses evaluated as part of their studies at the University of Iceland, so their stay does not have to affect the duration of their studies.
The programme is designed for people who work with older people:
This list is not exhaustive
Faró is the organisation for social work students at the University of Iceland.
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If you still have questions, feel free to contact us.
The School office offers support to students and lecturers, providing guidance, counselling, and assistance with various matters.
You are welcome to drop by at the office in Gimli or you can book an online meeting in Teams with the staff.
