Gerontology is the study of the aging process from middle age through later life, taking into account development across the life span. It is a multidisciplinary discipline that examines the social, physical, mental, cognitive, and spiritual components of life. Gerontologists also study how societal forces and changes, such as the economy, politics, law, and culture, influence the development of an aging population.

Enhancing the nation’s understanding of adulthood and aging is vital for planning and delivering services to people who are aging, developing effective policies and programs focused on an aging population, planning for an aging workforce, and educating national and international citizens about the impact of aging on the larger society. 

The mission of Oklahoma State University is to advance the quality of life through strategically selected programs of instruction, research and public service. Over the last twenty years, the university has offered a wide array of courses in the field of gerontology. The Gerontology Institute was established to serve the growing demand for education and training in aging studies and is committed to promoting an understanding of aging issues among the community. Demographically, the half million elderly Oklahomans serve as a reminder that the demand for educators, service practitioners, and researchers trained in the discipline of gerontology is critical and will continue to expand.

The Institute offers a multidisciplinary program, functioning within existing structures in the various colleges. This enables students and faculty to remain grounded in their academic disciplines, while giving students broad based exposure to the many facets of gerontological studies.