The Doctor of Philosophy degree program in Gerontology was approved by the Kansas Board of Regents during the 1996-1997 academic year. The University of Kansas is one of only several universities nation-wide which offers the Ph.D. in Gerontology. KU's Graduate Program in Gerontology is unique in that it is an interdisciplinary research degree emphasizing social and behavioral gerontology. Faculty affiliated with the program include members of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the Schools of Architecture and Urban Design, Allied Health, Education, Engineering, Fine Arts, Law, Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Social Welfare.
The program prepares students for academic and research careers in gerontology, as well as for professional careers in private and public institutions and agencies providing services to older individuals. Students seeking a terminal M.A. in Gerontology are not admitted; the M.A. in Gerontology is offered only to those pursuing a Ph.D. in Gerontology.