Programs
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Washington (OLLI-UW) offers a range of programs for intellectually curious adults over the age of 50. We’re currently offering both in-person and Zoom courses.
Courses
OLLI-UW courses cover engaging subjects ranging from global events to the arts, from health science research to compelling issues of the day. Current and retired UW faculty or experts from the community lead the courses.
We offer a full schedule of more than 20 courses in autumn, winter and spring. Courses typically meet weekly for two hours for three to five weeks. Other courses are offered as a single session. OLLI-UW members pay a fee of $30–$75 per course, depending on the number of sessions.
- To register by phone, please call the registration team at 206-543-2310.
- If you have any questions about courses or signing in, please email us or call 206-685-6549.
Course Packages
OLLI-UW members can now enjoy three-course ($200) and six-course ($400) package deals. Three-, four- and five-week courses are eligible for this deal. Osher Online courses and field trips are not eligible.
Osher Online
OLLI-UW is piloting a new partnership with Osher Online, a program developed by the National Resource Center (NRC) that acts as a central resource for all Osher Institutes (there are 125 in the U.S.). Osher Online offers online programs for any Osher Institute and its members, organized by the NRC.
Here's how you can participate:
- Register for a course and pay OLLI-UW, and we'll pass on your name and email to the NRC.
- NRC will host a couple of orientation sessions to help you get familiar with the various resources.
- Osher Online will send you the Zoom login information, and you'll have the chance to engage with speakers and members nationally.
- Courses are six sessions long and cost $90.
- Courses are not eligible for the course package deals.
- Check the course links for the registration deadline.
We hope you enjoy this new addition to our Osher Institute. Please email us if you have any questions.
June 2025 Courses & Field Trips
In-Person
- Vera Rubin Telescope
- Beeswaxing Transfers for All Art Mediums, 2D & 3D
- A Visit to Olympia: Washington's Capital (Field Trip - Register by June 6)
- Olmsted Parks Walk - Volunteer Park (Field Trip)
Zoom
July 2025 Courses & Field Trips
In-Person
- The Geology of Seward Park (Field Trip)
- Georgetown: Beer, Burials & Railroads (Field Trip)
- History Walking Tour of the University of Washington Campus (Field Trip)
- Pike Place Market: Beyond the Fish & Flowers Talk & Tour (Field Trip)
- Seattle Art Museum With an Art Historian (Field Trip)
- UW Farm Tour (Field Trip)
Zoom
- The Economics of Public Policy Issues (Osher Online – Register by July 2)
- Behind Those Baby Blues: The Films of Paul Newman (Osher Online – Register by July 2)
- Enjoying the Past & Present New York City: A History of Recreation in the Big Apple (Osher Online – Register by July 2)
- 100 Years of Magic: The Disney Legacy & Influence (Osher Online – Register by July 7)
- The Rehnquist Court, 1986-2005: Moves Toward Small Federal Government (Osher Online – Register by July 9)
August 2025 Courses & Field Trips
In-Person
- The Protean Coastline Waterfront Walking Tour (Field Trip)
- Sunset Photo Shoot on Alki, West Seattle (Field Trip)
Monthly Lecture Series
These lectures are talks by experts on a wide range of subjects. Lectures are free for OLLI-UW members and available in several locations or online via Zoom. Members are invited to bring their lunch and a guest. Once a quarter, OLLI-UW also hosts a lecture that is open to the general public.
Upcoming Lectures
New lectures are added frequently and may not be added to this page. Visit the monthly lectures page often to see all scheduled talks.
- 6/4/2025: Estate Planning & Planned Giving 101 (Zoom)
- 6/6/2025: Keeping It Real: How Conversation Creates Truth (In-Person)
- 6/11/2025: The Complex Legacy of Henry Kissinger (Zoom)
- 6/13/2025: The Blacklist Era & Hollywood (In-Person)
- 6/25/2025: Arribada: The Arrival of Sea Turtles (Zoom)
Study Groups
Designed and led by members, Osher study groups are an exclusive, free benefit for all OLLI-UW members. Study groups offer self-directed learning opportunities focused on an engaging topic for an extended period. While delving into a topic area, you’ll foster connections with community members who share similar interests.
Have an idea for a study group? We can help you bring it to life. Staff will work with you to create, schedule and promote the group to fellow members. Contact our office with your idea; reach us by email or phone at 206-685-6549.
Special Events
Guided museum and garden tours, summer field trips and other special events are offered periodically throughout the year. Some events charge a small fee.