Senior citizens and college? In one’s older years, the idea of going to, or returning to, college can sound exciting and intimidating at the same time. Whether considering attending a 2-year community college, a 4-year college, or university, senior citizens wishing to take college classes will be happy to hear they will not be the only older folk on campus. Seniors are also welcome in online college programs.
Social Life of Older Adults Attending College Classes
More and more people older than the traditional youthful college age are attending courses on campus, according to the Senior Journal website. In an interview with a Washington state community college freshman (April 2008), the student said it is not unusual to see people over 40 or 50 or 60 years old in classes. An average in her particular first-year classes has been to have one to three older students in each class.
Although the more mature students may have a bit different social experience (since they may have fewer friends on campus, not being fresh out of high school), the freshman observed that older adults are not seen as strange or treated differently. In fact, quite often, older students are rather popular. It all depends on personalities and willingness to join into discussions and social events. Of course, many instructors and campus staff are older as well.
Online College Degree Programs and Courses
If going to classes on campus does not fit in with a senior’s schedule or plans, there are other ways to learn. In most community college and university catalogs (or on websites), there are listings of courses offered online or as telecourses.
Each educational institution is different, but in general, online college classes have an active instructor for the class and a central website where students can sign in on their own schedule. Teachers and students post email-type messages, and receive and submit information and assignments through the website. Generally, a textbook assigned to the students.
While online classes lack the face to face interaction of a traditional classroom, an online course offers flexibility, allows students to work from home (which is perfect for the homebound), and lets one work at his or her own pace. Online courses can also keep costs down, as it may save parking fees and gasoline costs.
Telecourse University Classes Good for Senior Citizens
Telecourses are sometimes offered to view via cable television, videotape (or DVD) rental or online. This is another good option with flexibility and may be better for those who are more visual learners. These classes are often recorded lectures with an instructor available during certain hours (or via email) for those needing help. A teacher may also give out and grade assignments and tests.
Senior Learning
Some mature students are returning to college to earn an AA, BA, BS or MA degree. Earning a degree often offers a huge advantage in job searching, career changes and job advancement.
Whether a senior is interested in seeking a general education, wishes to learn a new language, or wants to take an art course, learning stimulates the brain, opens the mind, and enriches one's life.
For more senior citizen articles, see Senior Citizen College Discounts, Active Seniors Unique Adventures and Senior Citizen Fitness Activities.
Also of interest may be the web pages College Education and College Information and Best Information for Seniors and Senior Citizen Caregivers.
(updated 2011)
Janienne Jennrich - Janienne Jennrich, Topic Editor for Kids & Teen Parties and for Hair, is an award-winning freelance writer & webmaster.
