Article by Gwen Jones, Department of Family Services
(Posted 2023 June)
The education we receive as children and teens helps prepare us for adulthood by providing the knowledge and skills needed to function in society. Postsecondary education leads to certifications and degrees, often improving our career prospects and earning potential. Lifelong learning is another form of education but is driven entirely by one’s curiosity and thirst for knowledge. No degrees are received for lifelong learning, but the benefits are numerous, including improved mental sharpness and increased self-esteem.
Lifelong learning can take many forms, from joining a club or interest group, visiting museums and cultural sites, attending lectures and workshops, or returning to the classroom. Options abound in our region for older adults interested in pursuing learning opportunities.
The Lifetime Learning Institute of Northern Virginia
The Lifetime Learning Institute of Northern Virginia (LLI/NOVA), affiliated with the Annandale campus of Northern Virginia Community College, offers older adults the opportunity to take classes on a variety of subjects and attend cultural and social events. The classes are not offered for college credit or toward degree programs.
LLI/NOVA is a non-profit, volunteer-driven organization for adults aged 50 and over. For an annual fee of $110, members can sign up for as many classes as they want. LLI/NOVA publishes an online course catalog three times a year with more than 100 classes (mostly single-session), presented virtually or in-person. The classes are taught by volunteers, many of whom are college professors or other experts in their fields. The classes cover a wide variety of topics, including history, foreign affairs, science, financial and retirement planning, political science, government, technology, philosophy, psychology, religion, music, art, poetry, and personal development. Members can also attend monthly forums to listen to guest speakers and meet with other members.
LLI/NOVA offers travel and cultural excursions, including programs to visit local museums, theaters, and regional trips. They also offer longer trips involving overseas travel. Information about upcoming trips and outings is publicized in the ILL/NOVA newsletter and on the website. Some outings are free, while others require additional fees. Learn more about LLI/NOVA at LLINova.org.
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at George Mason University offers opportunities for older adults to take courses on a wide variety of subjects and attend cultural and social events. The courses are not offered for college credit or toward degree programs.
OLLI is also a volunteer led, non-profit organization that provides opportunities for older adults to explore intellectual and cultural subjects, discover new abilities, and socialize with others who share similar interests. The annual membership of $450 includes registration to attend an unlimited number of classes, lectures, luncheons, parties, and picnics scheduled throughout the year. They offer a special introductory rate for anyone who wants to try out their courses and activities for a shorter time.
Classes and activities are offered at three area locations (Fairfax, Reston, and Sterling) with some courses offered virtually. Courses are taught by well-qualified OLLI members and teachers from GMU, government, foreign embassies, and private industry. Music, finance, languages, current events, science, technology, health and many more course subjects are offered. OLLI also offers excursions to battlefields, museums, and other nearby destinations.
OLLI has more than two dozen clubs and special interest groups for members who enjoy art, history, theater, investing, books, and more. Additionally, members with an annual membership are entitled to a George Mason University ID card, which provides library privileges, discounts at the bookstore, recreation facilities and performances, and other benefits. Learn more at Olli.gmu.edu.
Auditing Courses at Public Colleges and Universities
The Senior Citizens Higher Education Act of 1974 gives adults 60 and older, who have resided in Virginia for at least one year, the opportunity to register for and audit up to three courses during an academic term at a public college. This can continue for an unlimited number of academic terms and the only fees you are required to pay are for course materials, such as lab fees.
George Mason University
To audit classes at George Mason University (GMU), you must first apply and meet all admission criteria and deadlines. For students enrolling under the Senior Citizens Higher Education Act of 1974, your application fee will be waived. Be prepared to provide required supporting documents, such as transcripts.
To apply, visit gmu.edu/admissions-aid/apply-now. Select the Senior Citizen Application Fee Waiver option at the end of the application. Be sure to allow ample time for your application to be processed. You can view the status of your application online. You will receive an email informing you once a decision has been made.
Once you are enrolled at GMU, here are a few things to keep in mind when making your course selections:
- Enrollment in specific courses is based on eligibility criteria and availability of space.
- Registration priority is given to degree-seeking students.
- Academic departments may restrict or prohibit non-degree enrollment in some courses.
- Auditors are not required to take tests or submit assignments, but you may find it helpful to retain what you’ve learned.
For more information, visit gmu.edu/admissions-aid/apply-now/how-apply/non-degree.
Northern Virginia Community College
To audit classes at Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), you must apply for admission at least 24 hours prior to registering for classes and submit the Senior Citizen Tuition Waiver. Be prepared to provide required supporting documents. To apply, go to apply.vccs.edu.
Older adults must register for classes by 11:59 p.m. on the last business day before the session begins. Sessions vary in length and if the courses you select are not held during the same session, you must submit separate tuition waivers for each session.
A few more things to keep in mind if you wish to audit courses at NOVA:
- To take courses in a program with restricted admission, you must be admitted to the program.
- Class enrollment is limited to classes that already have met the required number of tuition-paying students.
- Tuition waivers may not be used for one-on-one instruction in art, music, or other individual study courses.
For more information about auditing classes at NOVA, visit nvcc.edu/admissions/apply/seniors.html.
Fairfax County Public Schools Adult and Community Education
FCPS Adult and Community Education (ACE) provides lifelong learning and educational opportunities to the community. ACE Classes, held in-person and online, include classes that teach skills needed for career and work readiness, as well as enrichment classes in topic areas such as cinema and photography, culinary arts, hobbies (design, genealogy, writing), and mind, body and wellness. Courses vary in length – from one-day workshops to recurring classes meeting over several weeks.
The cost of classes also varies but Fairfax County residents who are 62 and older may receive a 25% discount on eligible classes. The discount does not apply to lab, material and textbook fees. Additionally, residents 62 and older who suffer financial hardship may apply for a full tuition waiver. Call 703-658-1201 to request an application for a waiver at least two weeks prior to the class start date. Waivers may not be used for all classes. For more information about ACE classes, visit AceClasses.fcps.edu or call the registration office at 703-658-1201, Monday-Friday 9 a.m.- Noon, or 1-5 p.m.
This article is part of the Golden Gazette monthly newsletter which covers a variety of topics and community news concerning older adults and caregivers in Fairfax County. Are you new to the Golden Gazette? Don’t miss out on future newsletters! Subscribe to get the electronic or free printed version mailed to you. Have a suggestion for a topic? Share it in an email or call 703-324-GOLD (4653).