Aging at the University of Minnesota's School of Social Work: Historiography of Gerontological Curriculum

With the dramatic shift in the population as the baby boom generation ages, education in gerontology is becoming an important component in schools of social work. Historically, gerontology has not been important in social work programs. This historical analysis examined the incorporation of aging related courses at the University of Minnesota's School of Social Work since its inception in 1918 through 1960. Historical research methods were utilized to obtain primary and secondary source data. It was determined that the School of Social Work's early curriculum development was influence by broader discourse concerning social work education and child welfare. Little discourse and curriculum related to aging was discovered. Implications for the profession of social work as they relate to demographic trends are included.