Gerontology: The Science of Aging (.M.Sc)

עברית

What will you study, and why should you study at Bar-Ilan?

.M.Sc

Aging today is no longer defined by chronological age alone. It encompasses quality of life, health, social relationships, and the capacity of public and professional systems to respond to a rapidly growing population. In Israel, more than 900,000 adults are currently aged 65 and over, and addressing their needs raises complex medical, psychological, social, and organizational challenges. Working effectively in this field requires broad, interdisciplinary knowledge that views aging as both a biological and a social process.

Against this backdrop, Bar-Ilan University’s Master’s Program in Gerontology is jointly offered by the Faculty of Life Sciences and the Department of Social Sciences and Health, providing students with an interdisciplinary understanding of the aging process. The program equips students with both applied and research-oriented tools for professional work with older adults.

The program offers two study tracks—a research track with a thesis and a non-thesis track—as well as a unique specialization in the treatment of older adults, focusing on the psychological and therapeutic aspects of aging.

The degree is recognized for salary purposes in relevant health professions, approved by the National Insurance Institute, and prepares graduates for professional roles in companies providing products and services for the aging population.

Graduates of the program are eligible to apply for registration in the Israeli Gerontologists Registry of the Israeli Gerontological Society.

Graduates of the Master’s Program in Gerontology pursue a wide range of professional roles, depending on their academic background and chosen study track, including:

  • Management of nursing homes, long-term care facilities, and senior day centers

  • Planning and management of projects within government ministries and local authorities

  • Professional roles in organizations dedicated to promoting health and well-being among older adults

  • Positions in research institutes focusing on the biology of aging and gerontology

Graduates of the Aging Care specialization may continue to advanced training in psychotherapy programs, with selected courses recognized toward required credit accumulation.

 
 
 

The Master’s Program in Gerontology is two years long, spread over four semesters. Classes are concentrated on Thursdays, allowing students to combine study with professional work.

Key features of the program include:

  • Two study tracks: a thesis track and a non-thesis track including a practicum

  • Core courses in the biology, psychology, and sociology of aging

  • Research training in advanced research methods and statistics

  • Seminars offering participation in ongoing university research projects

  • A range of elective courses, including geriatrics, rehabilitation, and legal aspects of aging

Degree awarded:

  • Students in the Life Sciences track receive an M.Sc.

  • Students in the Social Sciences track receive an M.A.

ample Core Courses

  • Immunology

  • Pharmacology

  • Adult Psychology

  • Age-Related Neurodegenerative Diseases

  • Biology of Aging and Age-Dependent Diseases

  • Microbiology: Introduction and Implications for Adult Life

Sample Elective Courses

  • Elder Care Nursing

  • Issues in Geriatrics

  • Selected Topics in Medicine

  • Psychopathology of Aging

  • Elder Abuse

  • Practical and Business Aspects of Aging

The program combines in-depth theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical experience, tailored to the student’s chosen track. Students learn alongside leading researchers and instructors in life sciences, clinical psychology, and social sciences, gaining exposure to research methods and professional tools relevant to the field of aging.

In the practicum track, offered during the second year, students complete a practical placement of approximately two hours per week. During this placement, students apply targeted intervention methods, such as working with life stories of older adults or learning techniques to improve sleep patterns. The practicum is supported by ongoing supervision from experienced senior practitioners.

In the Aging Care specialization, students take courses on the psychopathology of aging, cognitive-behavioral therapy, trauma management, and elder abuse prevention. Additional courses are taught by geriatricians, clinical psychologists, and social workers, providing exposure to complementary medical and therapeutic aspects of aging.

  • Relevant bachelor’s degree: Minimum weighted average of 80. 

  • The program is open to graduates in Life Sciences, health and allied health fields (Emergency Medicine, Nursing, Nutrition, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy), as well as Social Sciences and Behavioral Sciences.

  • Non-thesis track: Minimum average of 80 in the bachelor’s degree.

  • Thesis track: In addition to the bachelor’s degree average, a minimum average of 85 in research methods and statistics courses is required.

  • Aging Care specialization: Candidates are required to attend a personal interview.

  • Applicants from unrelated backgrounds: Required to complete up to 14 credits of preparatory courses.

Note:

  • Applicants with a scientific or health background register through the Faculty of Life Sciences.

  • Applicants with a social sciences background register through the Department of Social Sciences and Health.

Want to learn more about the Master’s Program in Gerontology?

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Last Updated Date : 20/01/2026