Gerontology Capstone Field Experience
Capstone Field Experience
The culminating experience for students in the MS in Gerontology Program is GRO 679- Integrated Capstone in Gerontology. Through a supervised field experience, students apply gerontological knowledge and skills in real-world settings while integrating theory, research, and professional practice.
Students complete 80 hours of supervised field experience in an approved setting that aligns with their academic and professional goals. The capstone provides an opportunity to gain practical experience, develop professional competencies, and contribute to organizations serving older adults and their families.
Purpose of the Capstone
The Capstone Field Experience is designed to help students:
- Apply classroom knowledge to professional practice.
- Develop leadership and problem-solving skills.
- Strengthen professional communication and collaboration.
- Build relationships with professionals and community organizations.
- Explore career interests and expand professional networks.
- Demonstrate competency in the field of gerontology through supervised experiential learning.
Capstone Field Experience Options
Students may complete one of three approved field experience options.
Research or Evaluation Experience
Students work with a faculty member or approved organization on a research or program evaluation project related to aging. Activities may include:
- Literature reviews
- Data collection
- Data analysis
- Program evaluation
- Report writing
- Presentation of findings
This option is ideal for students interested in research, doctoral study, or evidence-based practice.
Internship
Students complete a supervised internship within an aging-related organization or agency.
Internships provide opportunities to:
- Observe professional practice
- Participate in organizational activities
- Assist with program development
- Support services for older adults and caregivers
- Develop administrative and leadership skills
Examples of internship settings include:
- Healthcare organizations
- Senior centers
- Long-term care communities
- Nonprofit organizations
- Government agencies
- Community-based aging services
Service-Learning Experience
Students complete a structured service-learning experience that combines meaningful community engagement with academic learning.
Service-learning projects emphasize:
- Community partnership
- Reflection
- Civic engagement
- Application of gerontological principles
Students work with community organizations while addressing identified needs of older adults and aging services.
Learning Competencies
Through the Capstone Field Experience, students demonstrate competencies in:
- Professional communication
- Ethical practice
- Critical thinking
- Application of gerontological theory
- Program planning and evaluation
- Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams
- Cultural competence
- Leadership and professionalism
Field Experience Requirements
To successfully complete GRO 679, students must:
- Complete 80 supervised hours
- Work with an approved site and supervisor
- Meet course learning objectives
- Complete all required assignments and reflections
- Participate in regular communication with the course instructor
- Submit all required evaluations and documentation
Field experiences must be approved before hours begin.
Choosing a Field Experience
Students are encouraged to select a placement that aligns with their:
- Career goals
- Professional interests
- Previous experience
- Geographic location
- Desired competencies
The Course Director works with students to identify appropriate opportunities when needed.
Site Supervisor Responsibilities
Each student works under the supervision of an approved site supervisor.
Site supervisors are expected to:
- Provide meaningful learning experiences
- Orient the student to the organization
- Assign appropriate responsibilities
- Provide ongoing supervision and feedback
- Verify completed field hours
- Complete required evaluations
Student Responsibilities
Students are expected to:
- Maintain professional conduct.
- Follow organizational policies and procedures.
- Communicate regularly with both the supervisor and instructor.
- Complete assigned responsibilities on time.
- Maintain confidentiality and ethical standards.
- Submit all required course assignments by established deadlines.
Becoming a Capstone Site
Organizations interested in hosting a graduate student are encouraged to partner with the UNC Greensboro Gerontology Program.
Capstone sites should provide:
- Opportunities related to aging or older adult services
- Meaningful learning experiences
- An experienced professional to supervise the student
- Appropriate workspace and resources
Potential supervisors may complete the Capstone Supervisor Inquiry Form to express interest in becoming a field placement site.
Capstone Process
The general process for completing the Capstone Field Experience is:
- Enroll in GRO 679.
- Identify a field experience option.
- Secure an approved site and supervisor.
- Obtain instructor approval.
- Complete 80 supervised hours.
- Complete course assignments and reflections.
- Submit supervisor evaluations and required documentation.
- Successfully complete the capstone.
Resources
Students and supervisors should review the available resources before beginning the field experience.
Resources include:
- Capstone Handbook
- Student Forms
- Supervisor Forms
- Supervisor Inquiry Form
- Evaluation Forms
- Frequently Asked Questions