Investing, European history and ethics in the age of science are just a sample of more than a dozen courses offered this fall at Vancouver Island University’s Elder College.
Elder College is a VIU program focused on the life-long learning needs and interests of people 50 years and older.
Popular courses include digital cameras for seniors, Canadian prime ministers, history of the English language, introduction to the night skies and bridge basics.
The college also offers four Saturday speakers, beginning Sept. 21 at 10 a.m. with the lecture Can Genetically Modified Crops Be Used Safely?
The courses offer a way to keep brains active, help expand knowledge base and better understand the world.
Classes focus on participation and personal learning, so exams and assignments are not compulsory.
All courses are held during the daytime at VIU’s campus on Fifth Street or at Nanaimo Museum.
Instructors are volunteers, which keeps program fees low. Fees are about $40 for a six-week course. Students pay an additional annual membership fee of $20, which offers other benefits such as free entrance to Milner Gardens and use of VIU library services.
Course calendars are available at the university, or online at www.viu.ca/eldercollege. Please call 1-866-734-6252.