Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, Register Now

PALM DESERT – Learning is positive for health, according to an article in Harvard Business Review. Reading, even for short periods of time, can dramatically reduce your stress levels.

A recent report in Neurology noted that while cognitive activity can’t change the biology of Alzheimer’s, learning activities can help delay symptoms, preserving people’s quality of life. Other research indicates that learning to play a new instrument can offset cognitive decline, and learning difficult new skills in older age is associated with improved memory.

With that said, adults 50 and over can register for fall classes at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Cal State San Bernardino’s Palm Desert Campus.

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute is a program designed for adults 50 and older who want to experience learning for the fun of it.

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute offers non-credit, university-level courses, but without the grades, tests or homework. Membership is open to adults who enjoy learning, regardless of their educational background. Annual membership is $75; then members choose as many courses as they like and pay for those courses on an individual basis. Six-week courses are $50 each; three-week courses are $30.

Course topics include the arts, history, literature, economics, natural sciences, philosophy and more.

Participants can try a week of classes the week of Sept. 23 for $10 each with no membership required. They can then choose to become an Osher Lifelong Learning Institute member and select additional courses during the regular fall term that starts on Oct. 7.

“In addition to our traditional courses, we offer a variety of free member events, discussion groups, and a fabulous educational travel program,” said Sue Anderson, director of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. “Our membership and program offerings have both grown significantly. It continues to be an exciting time for OLLI.”

Courses are held at Cal State San Bernardino’s Palm Desert Campus, 37-500 Cook St.

For more information or to receive a free course catalog, call (909) 537-8270 or visit osher.csusb.edu.

The CSUSB Palm Desert Campus offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees, a doctorate in educational leadership, and teaching credentials and certificates. With more than 1,400 students, it is the Coachella Valley’s four-year public university and plays a vital role in educating and training the region’s growing population.

For more information about the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus, contact Mike Singer in the Office of Strategic Communication at msinger@csusb.edu or (760) 341-2883, ext. 78107, or visit the campus website by clicking here.