Scholars in Aging Program

Program Background

Practice with older adults is a critical area for growth in the social work profession. According to the U.S. government, there are significant and unprecedented increases in the population growth of people 65 and older.

Given that Connecticut has the sixth highest population of older adults in the United States, there is a critical need to develop the workforce serving this growing population. The Scholars in Aging Program, established in 2022, prepares students with specialized classroom and practicum training to serve the growing number of adults aged 65 and older within diverse communities and institutional settings. Read more about this program, UConn Today story.

“Donor" to the Scholars in Aging Program: Judith M. Zachs ’77 (SSW) and family

Program Requirements

Student Eligibility:

  • Individuals, Groups, and Families Hartford Campus, Online, and Stamford Cohort students entering advanced year, preferred
  • CORG or POPR students entering foundation year
  • BSW Senior students
  • Minimum 3.0 CUM GPA
  • Meet UConn and practicum agency requirements

Application Process:

  • Complete the application and include a statement of interest (refer to the application for requirements) and an unofficial transcript.

    Student Requirements:

    • Enroll in the required HBEL 5357 Social Gerontology course during the year of program participation
    • Complete a practicum placement in an agency serving older adults aged 65 and older
    • Attend four collaborative learning seminars each semester, which count toward practicum hours
    • Attend one SSW Scholars in Aging lecture

    Scholarships are disbursed at the beginning of fall and spring semesters.

    More Information

    Contact Joy Learman at joy.learman@uconn.edu.

    Elderly woman in wheelchair with students