Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Southern Oregon University (OLLI at SOU) is the Rogue Valley’s premier choice for staying mentally stimulated and socially engaged. This 1700-member organization offers non-credit classes in two locations – Ashland and Medford, as well as online.
OLLI at SOU is open to any age adult, but geared towards those aged 50+. A $150 annual fee lets members enroll in an unlimited number of classes from over 125 courses offered in each of three terms, from September to June. There is no per-course tuition and the annual fee includes most OLLI events and activities. Scholarships are available.
OLLI's diverse course topics include the arts (film, music, theater, visual arts, writing), history, language and culture, life plannt, literature, movement, nature, personal development, recreation, social sciences, and STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).
With no tests or grades, lLearning is a pleasure for members and instructors. There are no academic prerequisites. Members can establish connections with other curious adults through class discussions, social activities, shared interest and discussion groups, travel programs, as well as volunteering on committees or in governance.
It is not necessary to be a member or have prior teaching experience to become a volunteer instructor. A course includes from 2 to 10 weekly sessions of from 60 to 120 minutes in length and can start and stop anytime during the term. Course proposals for fall, winter and spring terms will be accepted during May, August and December, respectively.
OLLI membership fees are kept low through member donations and the generosity of the Bernard Osher Foundation. Support of lifelong learning for older adults is a key area of focus for the Osher Foundation.
For more information about OLLI, including a course catalog and a listing of free public lectures and events, visit sou.edu/olli or call 541-552-6048.