Why should I pursue this course now?
As a graduate from this Diploma course in 2012, you will be ideally placed to be among the first graduates to tap into to this emerging industry and have an advantage against others in the job market.
How flexible is the course curriculum?
Along with the core elements such as Sociology, Principles of Management, Marketing Fundamentals, Psychology and Aged-friendly Design, you will be able to choose what you like to specialize in (e.g. Financial Products & Services, Leisure & Travel, Assistive Technology, Health Care & Wellness).
Is the Silver Industry a recent phenomenon?
Awareness of the Silver Industry has only recently become widespread in Singapore. Elsewhere in Asia, other nations have already come to terms with their rapidly ageing populations. Japan, Hong Kong and South Korea all already offer degree programmes in Gerontological Studies. A similar trend is observed in the UK, USA as well as Canada. With government support in Singapore, a Ministerial Committee on Ageing has been set up along with the Silver Industry Committee and the Council for the 3rd Age. This sector is now considered so significant and important that these bodies have all been set up within a year of one another.
Is this a nursing course?
Gerontological Management Studies is about understanding the issues related to the ageing population and using that knowledge in a wide array of business applications catering to them. It is not a course for those who wish to nurse and care for the elderly. Just like you don’t have to be sick to be a good doctor, you don’t have to be old to work in the silver industry.
What is the learning environment like in the Temasek Humanities & Social Sciences School?
Our dedicated lecturers work within a supportive framework to provide a holistic, learner-centred environment that promotes analytical and critical thinking, character development and change readiness.
What if I have the intention to study further beyond diploma level?
For graduates who aspire to pursue further studies, the multidisciplinary nature of the curriculum has the added advantage of facilitating exemptions from many University programmes in the fields of Gerontology, Social Sciences and Business. The subjects offered in this diploma are comparable to those offered in University programmes to provide greater opportunities for graduates to be viewed in good standing if they wish to further their studies.
