Gerontology Salary & Income Expectations

 

Gerontology, the study of aging and its related processes, has gained increasing importance in recent years as our population ages. In 2023, there are over 46 million adults over the age of 65 living in the United States. By 2050, this demographic is expected to double. With longer life expectancies and a growing aging population, the demand for professionals in this field has surged. If you’re considering a career in gerontology, you might be wondering about the job growth and income you can expect to earn.

In this comprehensive guide, we will break down gerontology salary expectations for individuals with a bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD in gerontology, and provide insights into the earning potential for various careers within the field.

Is Gerontology a Growing Field?

Before diving into salary expectations, it’s important to understand the career outlook for gerontology. Is gerontology a growing field? The short answer is yes: the gerontology career outlook is strong, and the reasons behind this trend are multifaceted.

• Aging Population: The global population is aging rapidly. In many developed countries, including the United States, the proportion of older citizens is steadily increasing. This demographic shift has created a growing need for professionals who can address the unique challenges and needs of aging population health.
• Healthcare and Social Services: Gerontology graduates play a crucial role in healthcare and social services. They work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, community organizations, and government agencies to provide specialized care, advocacy, and support for older individuals.
• Research and Innovation: As our understanding of aging and age-related diseases deepens, there is a growing demand for researchers and scientists in the field of gerontology. This has led to increased funding for gerontology research and the development of innovative solutions to address aging-related issues.
• Policy and Advocacy: Gerontologists also work in policy development and advocacy to promote the rights and well-being of older adults. With an aging population, there is a greater need for experts who can influence and shape policies related to aging.

With these factors in mind, let’s explore the income expectations for gerontology careers at various educational levels.

Bachelor in Gerontology Salary

Average Salary: $62,000 per year

A bachelor’s degree in gerontology can be a great entry point into the field, offering a foundation in aging studies and a range of career options. However, salaries for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in gerontology tend to be on the lower end compared to those with advanced degrees.

Career Opportunities

• Social Services: Many entry-level positions in gerontology are in social services. Geriatric social workers who focus on older adults help them access essential resources, such as housing, healthcare, and financial assistance. The average salary for social workers in gerontology is $53,216 per year.
• Activities Coordinator: Activities coordinators plan and oversee recreational and social activities for older adults in assisted living facilities and nursing homes. They can earn an average salary of $32,010 annually.
• Caregiver/Personal Care Aide: While not exclusive to gerontology, these roles involve providing direct care and assistance to older adults. Salaries vary widely but the national median is $28,247 per year.
• Health Educator: Health educators in gerontology focus on educating older adults about healthy lifestyles and managing chronic conditions. The average annual salary for health educators is $60,009.

It’s important to note that the specific salary within this range can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and the employing organization.

Master’s in Gerontology Salary

Average Salary: $80,000 per year

Earning a master’s degree in gerontology can significantly increase your earning potential and open doors to more specialized and leadership roles within the field.

Career Opportunities

• Gerontological Social Worker: With a master’s degree, you can work as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) specializing in gerontology. LCSWs provide therapy and counseling to older adults and their families, with an average salary of $78,800 per year.
• Healthcare Administrator: Master’s degree holders in gerontology can pursue leadership positions in healthcare facilities that specialize in elder care. The national average salary for healthcare administrators is $78,320.
• Gerontological Researcher: Research positions in gerontology can be highly rewarding both intellectually and financially. Researchers can earn annual salaries ranging from $54,889 to $74,594 (or more), depending on their level of expertise and the institution they work for.
• Nonprofit Executive Director: Leading nonprofit organizations focused on aging-related issues can be fulfilling and financially enticing. Directors of such organizations can earn an average annual salary of $85,230.

A master’s degree in gerontology equips you with the knowledge and skills to make a substantial impact on the lives of older adults and opens up a wide array of career opportunities with competitive salaries.

PhD in Gerontology Salary

Average Salary: $112,000 per year

A PhD in gerontology represents the highest level of education in the field and can lead to prestigious and well-compensated positions. However, pursuing a PhD requires a significant commitment of time and effort.

Career Opportunities

• University Professor/Researcher: Many PhD holders in gerontology choose to pursue careers in academia. As professors and researchers, they conduct cutting-edge research, publish scholarly articles, and educate the next generation of gerontologists. Salaries for university professors can vary widely but the average annual salary sits at $172,460.
• Consultant: Experienced gerontology PhDs may become consultants, advising healthcare organizations, government agencies, and nonprofits on aging-related issues. Consultants can earn substantial fees ranging from $71,772 to $106,527 annually, depending on their expertise and client base. 
• Director of Research and Development: In this leadership role, individuals oversee research initiatives and innovation in aging-related fields. Salaries for research and development directors can range from $196,324 – $253,593 or higher.
• Government Policy Analyst: PhDs in gerontology can work in government agencies to shape policies related to aging populations. Salaries for policy analysts typically fall within the range of $118,590 and $157,190 per year.
• Gerontological Program Director: Leading gerontology programs and initiatives within healthcare organizations or nonprofits can be financially rewarding, with salaries ranging from $84,773 to $121,923 or more.

Factors Influencing Gerontology Salaries

Several factors can influence the salaries of gerontologists, regardless of their educational background:

• Geographic Location: Salaries tend to be higher in urban areas and regions with a higher cost of living. Metropolitan areas often offer more opportunities and competitive compensation.
• Experience: As with most professions, experience plays a significant role in determining salary. Experienced gerontologists typically earn more than entry-level professionals.
• Employer: The type of organization you work for can impact your salary. Healthcare institutions, universities, and government agencies often offer higher salaries and better benefits.
• Certifications and Licensure: Some roles in gerontology, such as licensed clinical social workers, nurse practitioners, and licensed counselors, require specific certifications or licensure, which can affect salary levels.
• Specialization: Specializing in a specific area within gerontology, such as Alzheimer’s disease or hospice care, can lead to higher-paying positions due to the specialized expertise required.

Gerontology is indeed a growing field with a wide range of exciting career opportunities and income-earning potential. Whether you hold a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD in gerontology, your income expectations can vary significantly based on factors such as education level, experience, location, and specialization.

While salaries in gerontology may not always rival those in other fields, the intrinsic rewards of working with older adults and making a positive impact on their lives and the generations to come are immeasurable. As the aging population continues to expand, the demand for gerontology professionals is expected to remain strong, making it a promising and fulfilling career choice for those passionate about improving the quality-of-life for older individuals. So, if you have a genuine interest in aging and a desire to make a difference, gerontology could be the perfect path for you, offering not only financial stability but also a sense of purpose and job satisfaction.

Earn a Gerontology Degree Online

Concordia University Chicago offers well-respected gerontology online degree programs to help graduates improve the lives of aging adults. Learn more about our graduate certificate, master’s program, PhD program, and EdD program today. Apply now and start your path to working within the field of gerontology!