The interdisciplinary certificate in aging is available to students enrolled in degree programs in the Faculty of Health and other areas of the University. The certificate brings together 3000- and 4000-level courses from multiple disciplines within the Faculty of Health and across the University, including kinesiology and health science, psychology, health studies, sociology and programs at Glendon, to support an interdisciplinary approach to the study of aging.
This certificate provides a comprehensive understanding of aging across societal, structural and system-level domains, as well as physical, psychosocial and cognitive domains. These domains are reflected across both core and elective courses, ensuring students are exposed to each area throughout the program. Students develop knowledge and practical skills to work in and with health and social systems that support aging populations, and to apply interdisciplinary concepts and research methods to aging-related issues.
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate students in the Faculty of Health should apply to the certificate before completing 36 credits. Students must complete required prerequisites before enrolling in 3000‑ and 4000‑level courses.
Graduation Requirements
Students must apply to graduate with the certificate through the Faculty of Health by contacting aging@yorku.ca. Once approved, the certificate appears on the transcript and, if completed concurrently, is awarded following completion of the degree.
Previously known as the Cross-Disciplinary Certificate in Aging, the updated requirements take effect in fall 2026. Current students may complete the original requirements outlined in the academic calendar or follow the updated requirements described on this page.
Why complete the Interdisciplinary Certificate in Aging?
Students who complete the Interdisciplinary Certificate in Aging develop core skills in communication, teamwork, research, and critical analysis, preparing them to work in and with health and social systems that support aging populations. They learn to apply interdisciplinary research methods and evidence to better understand and address aging-related issues in policy and practice.
The certificate also equips students to examine how individuals experience aging as they interact with organizations, policies, practices, and health and other social systems. Graduates are prepared to apply interdisciplinary perspectives at local, national and global levels, with consideration of diverse social identities and social locations, and to articulate how improved health, social and work conditions contribute to improved outcomes for older adults and those who provide paid and unpaid care.
Curriculum (24 credits)
The certificate requires a minimum of 24 credits: 12 core credits and 12 elective credits. Students must complete the designated prerequisites before enrolling in the 3000- and 4000-level courses in this certificate. Official degree requirements are outlined in the Academic Calendar by year of entry into the program.