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Aging Studies

Our online Aging Studies program welcomes students at all stages of professional development, including those in the workforce and those who have recently completed an undergraduate degree. Students may enroll full-time or part-time.

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Aging Studies

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Degree Level
Master of Science
Delivery
Fully Online / Accelerated
Credit Hours
33 Total
Careers
Social, Assistants, Aides, Postsecondary
Aging Studies students at EIU

Why Study Aging Studies at EIU?

  • Work closely with faculty in small online classes
  • Build real-world knowledge and experiences.
"The Aging Studies program at Eastern Illinois University has been a huge blessing to both my wife and me. This program has provided us a solid foundation to lead our company, and a much deeper understanding of the industry. The program and faculty members have been very accommodating and we have enjoyed all of our classes."
Brent Zabka
Aging Studies | Class of 2016
Brent Zabka, Aging Studies at EIU

Hands-On Experience

  • Project-based coursework
  • Opportunities for internships and independent study.
Explore Courses
Hands-On Experience, Aging Studies students at EIU

What You'll Learn

The online Master of Science in Aging Studies program is designed to provide a multidisciplinary education for future and current professionals in gerontology. We are committed to maintaining the quality and distinction of the program that was exemplified by our recognition as a Program of Merit by the Association for Gerontology in Higher Education.

View in Catalog
$53,100
Median Salary 4 Years After Graduation

Career Outcomes

  • Social & Human Service Assistants
  • Home Health Aides
  • Social Work Teachers, Postsecondary

Career Insights

Job Outlook ★ Bright Outlook Grow Rapidly · Openings
Preparation Needed Considerable (4/5)
Personality Fit Social

Financing Your Degree Under the 2026 Rules

Federal graduate lending changed on July 1, 2026 - Grad PLUS loans ended for new borrowers and new federal borrowing caps now apply to graduate students. Here's why the math still works at EIU:

Estimated total for this degree: ~$15,147 (tuition and fees)

  • ✓ That's only about 15% of the new $100,000 lifetime graduate borrowing limit - leaving room for whatever comes next in your career.
  • ✓ A typical full-time year here runs about $8,262 - well under the new $20,500 annual federal loan limit, so federal loans alone can cover tuition and fees.
  • ✓ Working? If your employer offers it, they can provide up to $5,250 per year tax-free toward your education - at EIU's rates, that can cover a good share of a part-time master's.

Estimates use 2026-2027 Illinois-resident tuition and fees and typical full-time enrollment. Your actual costs and aid depend on your program, enrollment, FAFSA, and prior borrowing.

Talk to EIU Financial Aid →
15% of lifetime limit

$15,147 total, just 15% of your $100,000 federal graduate borrowing limit

Connect With Us

Dr. Kathleen O'Rourke
Professor, Aging Studies Graduate Coordinator, & Human Services Graduate Coordinator
kaorourke@eiu.edu
1044 Klehm Hall
217-581-6076
Dr. Kathleen O'Rourke Message Dr. O'Rourke

Message Dr. O'Rourke

or email kaorourke@eiu.edu directly
Dianne Timm
Chair, School of Human Development
dtimm@eiu.edu
2109
217-581-5327
Dianne Timm Message Dianne

Message Dianne

or email dtimm@eiu.edu directly
Billy Panther
Head of Panther Pride
Old Main
217-581-2223
Billy the Panther Message Billy

Message Billy

or email billy@eiu.edu directly

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