Social Gerontology (International Program)
Master of Science in Social Gerontology (International Program)
Aging population had been dramatically increasing everywhere in this world society. Living longer is not only to complete the physical health, but obviously; psychological, social, and cultural environment, are also important. Master of Science in Social Gerontology at Chulabhorn International College of Medicine, Thammasat University (Rangsit Campus), will encourage and empower young academicians the holistic point of view for caring the elder, not only to promote health and well-being, but also to increase socio-cultural dimensions for elder life security, as well as suggestion for the policy movement.

STAFF

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kanvee Viwatpanich

Post-doctoral Fellowship (Social Gerontology), University of Vienna, Austria

Dr.rer.nat. (Anthropology), University of Vienna, Austria

M.A. (Cultural Studies), Mahidol University

B.A. (Sociology and Anthropology), Kasetsart University


Research Interests:

Social Gerontology; Cross-Cultural Studies on Older Adulthood; Community Health and Well-being; Caregiving and Support Systems among Older Persons; Ethnicity, Identity, and Well-being across the Life Course.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chanuantong Tanasugarn

Dr.P.H., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, U.S.A.

M.P.H., University of Pittsburgh, U.S.A.

B.Ed. (Health and Science Education), Chulalongkorn University

Diploma in Nursing and Health, Faculty of Nursing, Mahidol University


Research Interests:

Health and Later Life; Public Health and Health Promotion; Health Education and Health Literacy; Health Behavior and Lifestyle Development; Healthy Cities and Social Engagement; Community Health Systems; Health System Evaluation and Policy

Suphawadee Phababpha, Ph.D.

Ph.D. (Medical Physiology), Khon Kaen University

M.Sc. (Medical Physiology), Khon Kaen University

B.Sc. (Nursing), Sri Mahasarakham Nursing College


Research Interests:

Medical Physiology; Health and Well-being in Later Life; Medical and Health Innovation; Physiological Development and Adaptation for Older Adult Well-being

Miss Chadasa Chepmuangman

B.Sc. (Applied Physics)

Educator, Professional Level

E-PUBLICATION

Knowledge and Health Literacy

 
 

CURRICULUM

Types of Degrees

 

Master of Science in Social Gerontology (International Program)

Chulabhorn International College of Medicine, Thammasat University

"Empowering Global Leaders in Aging Society Research and Innovation"

Foundational Concept

 
The Master of Science in Social Gerontology (International Program) at Chulabhorn International College of Medicine, Thammasat University, is a pioneering graduate program shaping future leaders for an aging world. This interdisciplinary program blends medical science, social science, and innovation to empower students to create meaningful change in the lives of older adults. Through hands-on research, global collaboration, and self-directed learning, students gain the insight and skills to become compassionate, ethical, and visionary professionals. Graduates emerge ready to lead with purpose, improving health, well-being, and social equity for aging communities worldwide.

Philosophy and program objectives

 

Philosophy:

“To produce specialized researchers in social gerontology capable of analyzing social and health conditions of the aging population, and driving positive change in society through innovation and ethical leadership.”


Program Objectives

1. Develop experts who understand the interaction between aging and social context.

2. Enhance the ability to design health and social care systems for the elderly.

3. Cultivate ethical researchers and social innovators.

4. Prepare graduates for doctoral-level study and leadership in research.

Program Highlights

 
The Master of Science in Social Gerontology (International Program) empowers future leaders to shape a better aging society through an interdisciplinary blend of medical, social, and behavioral sciences. Students engage in global research collaborations with leading universities in Japan, Australia, the UK, and Singapore, while developing their expertise through a research-driven, thesis-only program. With opportunities to publish internationally and a strong emphasis on ethical leadership, the program nurtures compassionate innovators ready to make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of older adults worldwide.

Specific requirements

 
  • Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in any field from a university recognized by Thammasat University’s Council.
  • Must have at least 2 years of work experience related to elderly care, or have published at least one research article (not part of a thesis) in a recognized academic journal (TCI or accepted by MHESI), showing at least 50% contribution.
  • Must pass proposal presentation and interview before admission.
  • Physical and ethical requirements include:
    • Not having serious health conditions that obstruct study.
    • Not having been expelled from other universities for disciplinary reasons within 10 years.
    • Not concurrently studying in another Thammasat program unless approved by the rector.

English requirements

 
Applicants must meet one of the following English proficiency criteria:
  • TOEFL (PBT) >= 550
  • TOEFL (ITP) >= 550
  • TOEFL (iBT) >= 79
  • TU-GET (PBT) >= 500
  • TU-GET (CBT) >= 79
  • IELTS >= 6.5
  • TOEIC >= 750 (plus an English interview by a native speaker)
Exceptions:
  • Exempted if the applicant’s native language is English or graduated within the past 2 years from an English-medium program.
  • Exempted if the applicant previously passed TU English courses (TU.005 and TU.006) within 2 years.
  • Conditional admission is possible for those without sufficient English scores; they must meet the requirement within their first semester or pass the two English courses mentioned above.

General knowledge score

 
  • The program does not specify a general knowledge test score (such as GRE or similar).
  • Selection is primarily based on:
    • Thesis proposal presentation.
    • Interview evaluation.
    • English proficiency test results. Hence, the academic and research background serves as the main indicator of general knowledge.

Preferred Characteristics

 
Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate the following traits and competencies:

  1. Research-Oriented Mindset — ability to engage in scientific inquiry, data analysis, and critical reasoning in the field of social gerontology.

  2. Humanistic Skills — compassion, empathy, and ethical sensitivity toward the elderly and vulnerable populations.

  3. Cross-Cultural Mindset — openness to cultural diversity, inclusivity, and understanding of global aging contexts.

  4. Active Learning Approach — enthusiasm for inquiry-based, participatory, and reflective learning experiences.

  5. Self-Directed Learning Skills — capacity to set goals, manage time effectively, and pursue independent research.

  6. Collaborative Leadership — ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and lead community-based projects.

  7. Moral Integrity and Professional Ethics — commitment to honesty, social responsibility, and research ethics.

  8. Adaptability and Resilience — readiness to manage challenges and apply interdisciplinary knowledge in dynamic contexts.

  9. Communication and Presentation Skills — competence in both academic writing and oral communication, especially in English.

  10. Social Commitment — motivation to contribute to improving the quality of life and promoting well-being among older adults.

Core Competencies

 
Core Competencies of the Program Competencies Acquired by Graduates
Knowledge Competency

- Demonstrate a deep understanding of the core concepts in social gerontology and the ability to apply knowledge in developing high-quality research or theses.

- Possess up-to-date and relevant knowledge in response to social and technological transitions.

- Learn independently and continuously develop new knowledge through research and appropriate use of technology.

- Integrate interdisciplinary knowledge—including basic sciences, medical sciences, and social sciences—to create innovative approaches for social or health entrepreneurship in aging societies.
Skills Competency

- Understand and apply theoretical and methodological approaches in a systematic manner to analyze and solve key problems.

- Utilize scientific processes to synthesize, integrate, and create innovations appropriate for addressing issues in an aging society.

- Design and conduct research projects that generate new knowledge in the field of social gerontology.

- Apply information technology effectively to monitor scientific and medical advancements and integrate them into professional practice.
Ethical and Moral Competency

- Demonstrate ethical leadership and promote moral conduct in professional practice with older adults.

- Diagnose and make sound ethical judgments in complex academic or social situations, based on rational principles, fairness, and moral values.

- Exhibit sensitivity to the feelings, needs, and social contexts of individuals and communities affected by aging-related issues.
Character and Leadership Competency

- Interact constructively with individuals and groups, work collaboratively, and exhibit leadership in academic and research contexts.

- Demonstrate high-level academic expression and excellence in scholarly leadership in the field of aging studies.

- Display emotional maturity, adaptability, and the ability to manage complex organizational and personal challenges effectively.

- Take responsibility for personal and professional roles while continuously pursuing self-development and social contribution.
Lifelong Learning Competency

- Possess a positive attitude toward continuous learning and self-improvement in response to societal changes.

- Develop and disseminate knowledge to enhance the well-being and quality of life of older adults and the community as a whole.

ALUMNI

 
Name Country Research Topic
MUHAMMAD AYAZ PAKISTAN Elderly Homelessness At Islamabad In, Pakistan: An Anthropological Study
GEM TSHERING BHUTHAN Quality Of Life And Health Needs Among The Elderly In Paro, Bhutan
AHMAD SHODIQ INDONESIA Situation Of The Elderly Victim From Natural Disaster: A Case Study Of Earthquakes In Lombok, Indonesia
HAENING RATNA SUMIAR INDONESIA Barriers To Healthcare Access During Covid-19 Pandemic On Older Refugees With Health Problems In Indonesia: Perspective Of Case Workers And Health Professionals
Hattaya Ratananon THAILAND Coping Strategies Of Older Adults In The Context Of Urban Ageing And Green Space Scarcity: A Case Study Of Chaiyathit Community, Bangkok Noi District
Pyae Phyo Kyaw Lwin MYANMAR Living With Loss: Narrative Experiences And Impacts On Well-Being Of Older Parents Affected By The 2021 Military Coup In Myanmar
KITSANA TANACHANPATTANA THAILAND Aging At The Crossroads: Framework-Driven Assessment Of Housing Decisions Among Thailand’s Pre-Elderly Adults
PATARAPOP PIAMTHIPMANAS THAILAND When The Ring Falls Silent - A Qualitative Study On Social Support Among Retired Muay Thai Fighters

TRAINING

 

CONTACT

 

Admission for Social Gerontology

Tel. 02-5644440 Ext. 4494


Office: +66 2564 4440-9 Ext. 4118

Email: pr.cicm.tu@gmail.com

Email: cicm.inter.pr@gmail.com


PR-Ext. 4118 / Admission-Ext. 4559-4560

Administration-Ext. 4539 / Personnel-Ext. 4541

Address:

Chulabhorn International College of Medicine,

Thammasat University

Cooperative Learning Center, Piyachart 2

99 Moo 18 Klong Luang, Rangsit, Pathumthani 12120, Thailand