How are gerontology doctoral graduates viewed in the academic job market? Findings from an exploratory study.

TitleHow are gerontology doctoral graduates viewed in the academic job market? Findings from an exploratory study.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2012
AuthorsMcMullen, TL, Brown, CS, Canham, SL, de Medeiros, K
JournalGerontol Geriatr Educ
Volume33
Issue2
Pagination183-97
Date Published2012
ISSN1545-3847
KeywordsClinical Competence, Competency-Based Education, Education, Medical, Graduate, Educational Measurement, Educational Status, Geriatrics, Humans, Interdisciplinary Studies, Job Application, Personnel Selection, Surveys and Questionnaires
Abstract

Although doctorally trained gerontologists have unique types of expertise as a result of their interdisciplinary training, research exploring perceptions of their hirability in faculty positions is lacking. This exploratory study examined the perceptions of administrators and faculty at institutions identified as having a doctoral program in gerontology or a doctoral program in another aging-related area. A short, semistructured 27 question survey was disseminated online. Twenty-five (N = 25) deans, associate deans, or other faculty participated in this study. Results indicate varying views of the attractiveness of hiring doctorally trained gerontologists, who or what is a gerontologist, and the value of having a doctorally trained gerontologist as a faculty member.

DOI10.1080/02701960.2012.661809
Alternate JournalGerontol Geriatr Educ
PubMed ID22490074