FAQs about the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UWM
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UWM is a membership program of the School of Continuing Education that offers courses, social activities, and special interest groups for adults age 50 and over. Member volunteers and UWM staff plan and manage the program through a committee structure.
How did the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UWM evolve?
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UWM was formerly known as The Guild for Learning in Retirement, which was founded in 1982. In 2007, the Guild was awarded a grant from the Bernard Osher Foundation and became the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UWM. The Osher Foundation supports a national network of lifelong learning institutes on university campuses from Maine to Hawaii.
How do I become a member or renew my membership?
It’s easy to join or renew. Simply follow the applicable link below for online registration visit membership page..
How much is membership?
Annual membership is $45 a person. For couples or individuals living at the same address and requesting only one copy of mailed information, membership is $80. (A couple constitutes as two people living in the same household, whether married, siblings or partners.)
Annual membership lasts from Sept. 1 to Aug. 31 of the following year, though you can join anytime during the year. As a new member, your membership fee is prorated based on the month that you join and is in effect until the following Aug. 31. Your membership then joins the continuing member fee schedule.
Do I have to be a member to take a class?
Yes. Membership is required to participate in programs.
Do I have to be an alumnus of UW-Milwaukee to join?
No. You do not need to be a UWM graduate or otherwise associated with the University. Osher is for people of all educational backgrounds.
What are the benefits to becoming a member?
Members enjoy an array of benefits including a library card to UWM’s Golda Meir library.
Is there a fee for courses or to join a special interest group?
There are additional fees for special interest groups that vary based on the number of times the group meets each month.
Are classes “for credit”?
No. Classes are not “for credit” and participants do not receive grades. Classes are for members who have a thirst for knowledge and enjoy learning.
Where are classes held?
Programs are primarily held at the School of Continuing Education and the Hefter Center. See specific programs for details and directions.
Do members have to register for classes?
Yes. Although there is no registration deadline, please register as early as possible for every course you wish to take. This ensures that you have a spot in the class and that you will receive all available materials for the class.
When are Osher programs held?
Most programs are held during daytime hours. Courses, special interest groups, and social events are usually scheduled for 1 to 2 hours.
What about parking downtown at the School of Continuing Education?
Parking is free of charge for members during institute-related activities. There is a parking garage attached to the School of Continuing Education where members may park.
Once I’m a member, are there additional ways to get more involved in the institute?
Yes. Serving on a committee is a good way to get more involved in the institute. Committee members are volunteers who welcome others to share in the leadership of the organization.
What kinds of committees can members be a part of?
There are a variety of committees on which members can serve. These include leadership and development, membership, public relations, newsletter, fund raising, program and social activities.
For more information, contact:
Kim Beck, Executive Director, kcb@uwm.edu, 414-227-3321
