Valparaiso University – ranked by U.S. News & World Report as a top 10 Best Midwestern Regional College – is pleased to announce the launch of its Master of Science in Health Management and Policy (MS-HMP) degree program with a specialization in Gerontology, offered 100% online.

Now, health professionals can access Valparaiso University’s prestigious graduate-level education anytime, anywhere through an interactive classroom. Students enrolled in the new MS-HMP: Gerontology program will develop knowledge in government policy as it relates to healthcare, healthcare management, finance, project management, elder law and managing elder facilities.

As baby boomers reach retirement age, demand is growing for healthcare specialists with the training and knowledge to solve the unique challenges of the nation’s seniors. The program is designed to meet the diverse needs of professionals in gerontology and includes the study of the physical, mental, and social changes in older people; the investigation of the changes in society resulting in our aging population; as well as societal influences on how people age; and the application of this knowledge to policies and programs.

“The MS in Health Management and Policy program blends policy, management and values-based ethics to prepare graduates for the challenges of modern health care management, particularly within the emerging specialty area of gerontology,” said Professor Kris Mauk of Valparaiso University.

The 100% online graduate degree program is designed to position healthcare professionals and those wishing to transition into the field for leadership roles such as Public Health Program Chief, Medical Care Administrator and Director of Elder and Human Services. In addition to Gerontology, Valparaiso University offers specialization tracks in Strategic Decision Making, Health Informatics and Forensic Health. The 36-credit hour program offers six start dates throughout the year and can be completed in as little as 24 months.

Students have 24/7 access, via mobile device or home computer, to courses taught by Valparaiso University’s renowned faculty. The video-based e-learning platform, powered by University Alliance, also includes online discussion boards.

To learn more about Valpo’s MS-HMP: Gerontology program and to begin the enrollment process, call 855-582-8047 or visit www.ValpoOnline.com. Applications are due by April 23 for the Summer 1, 2014 session, which begins May 5.

About Valparaiso University
Valparaiso University is a comprehensive independent Lutheran university with more than 4,000 students on its campus located in Northwest Indiana, an hour from Chicago. Valparaiso is a community of purpose-driven, service-minded and ethical individuals who embrace the pursuit of truth with freedom, humility and compassion. Valparaiso has been identified as one of the top master’s-level institutions in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report magazine for more than 20 years. Valparaiso University offers more than 110 undergraduate academic programs through the colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business, Engineering and Nursing. Valparaiso also has a distinguished honors college, a Law School, and more than 40 degree and certificate programs in its Graduate School and Continuing Studies. Valparaiso has been recognized for its commitment to outstanding teaching, preparing thoughtful leaders with strong cross-cultural skills and global awareness and dedication to serving others.

About University Alliance
University Alliance (UA) is a leader in facilitating the online delivery of associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as professional certificate programs from the nation’s leading traditional universities and institutions. Universities powered by UA’s technology and support services have surpassed 450,000 online enrollments – making UA one of the largest facilitators of e-learning in the country.