Society of Senior Scholars

Retiree. Scholar. Mentor. Friend.

Retirement: Adult Learning and Service Options

The faculty and staff study privilege, which allows employees to take classes without tuition, lapses when employment ends. Several options are, however, available for retirees and others who wish to expand their horizons with new study opportunities.

The OSHER Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI)

The OSHER Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) is an innovative educational program designed to help people 50 years of age or better, or anyone with a curious mind, to renew their enthusiasm for learning in a relaxed atmosphere. As a member in OLLI you join a dynamic community of lifelong learners who understand that life is enhanced through learning. Instructors are distinguished, active and emeritus faculty, scholars, and professionals in the community. The emphasis of the course offerings is increasing knowledge, engagement and community building.

Over the last three semesters, more than 350 individuals have participated in a wide variety of courses across a number of themes, including: global and cultural awareness; environmental sustainability; historical contexts and current issues; facets of the Rocky Mountain Region, enjoying the arts, and more. One member noted:

In the past few weeks, I've learned about Geotechnology, (a new megatechnology that is currently reshaping all our lives), and been introduced to the Wisdom Traditions of the East, including Buddhism and Hinduism, which have been shaping some of the worlds great cultures for centuries. The two classes I've just finished, offered through OLLI at CSU have been very diverse in their content, but both were taught by world-class instructors in a very supportive environment. I want to thank the OLLI for offering these classes, and keeping my brain well fed, and my sense of wonder alive and well!.

OLLI particularly welcomes Society of Senior Scholars members — several of whom have taught for the program and have received "rave" reviews from class participants. In addition to being able to take Osher Courses, members may take advantage of the members-only PERK series which involves a number of CSU-based tours/experiences and also a number of free lectures. For details, call 970-491-5288 or visit www.learn.colostate.edu/osher.

Continuing Education

The Division of Continuing Education leverages the academic resources of Colorado State University to offer accredited programs and courses to help you achieve your goals. Enrollment is offered on-campus or via distance media, in credit or non-credit courses, to complete undergraduate or graduate degrees, certificates or other needs. The array of offerings and the purposes they can serve is almost as broad as the university itself.

The full range of Continuing Education offerings is at: http://www.learn.colostate.edu/

Class Visitation Privilege for Seniors

CSU offers a senior citizen class visitation privilege for anyone over 62 years of age. Attending classes under this provision is free but occurs at the discretion of the instructor and when space and resources are available. Since this is a form of audit, no formal credits are awarded. Those wishing to accumulate credits toward a degree or certificate should explore other options.

Volunteering in Service to Others

While the range of possible places and programs in which one could volunteer is nearly as wide as one's imagination, there is, unfortunately, no central CSU office that would coordinate or publicize such openings. Many people find enormous satisfaction in volunteering their services to one cause or another in retirement. However, the need falls to the individual to take the initiative and seek out an desired opportunity. To assist in getting you started, this partial list may be of interest.