Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Richmond combines intellectual stimulation and civic engagement with a vibrant community of like-minded students age 50 and better on the campus of the University of Richmond.

Established in 2004 at the University of Richmond through an endowment from The Bernard Osher Foundation of San Francisco, our membership organization offers an extensive array of courses in the liberal arts in the fall, spring and summer semesters. These offerings are a combination of undergraduate credit courses for audit, special interest mini-courses, free lectures, community service projects, performing arts events and more.

Our Osher Institute is part of the network of Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes across the United States, meeting the needs of older learners who want to learn for the joy of learning and personal fulfillment. The UR Osher Institute is one of 125 institutes across the country, all supported by the National Resource Center.

There are no entrance requirements, no tests and no grades. In fact, no college background is needed at all. It’s your love of learning that counts. And you can become an Osher member for as little as $75 per year.

Osher members seated outdoors
Become an Osher Member Join for as little as $75 per year. Membership required for all Osher experiences except Events listed as free and open to the public.
Osher members seated outdoors
Register for Osher Classes Log on to the registration portal to view available courses, instructor bios and expanded course descriptions. Available for fall, spring and summer terms.
Osher members sitting around a table
Join an Interest Group Interest groups are available to Osher members in a wide range of topics, from biking and hiking to bridge and investments.
Osher members sitting around a table
Learn about Travel Opportunities Osher members are eligible for discounted tour pricing on a wide range of domestic and international travel opportunities.
Osher member speaking into mic
Lead or Volunteer for Osher The Osher Institute thrive because its members are highly engaged. Opportunities to lead and volunteer abound, from leadership council membership to class media coordinators.
Osher group photo
Give to Support Osher Gifts to the Osher Institute help maintain the Institute’s long-term viability at the University of Richmond and represent commitment to the breadth and depth of programs available to members.

Osher Strategic Plan & Updates

Review information about the Osher Institute’s strategic planning process along with progress reports and member survey results since the strategic plan was implemented.

Osher Presentations

The Osher Institute staff and volunteer leaders are available to talk to groups, civic associations, and other organizations about the history, benefits, and activities of our lifelong learning institute. For more information contact Peggy Watson at margaret.watson@richmond.edu or call (804) 287-6344.

Osher Leadership Council

The Osher Leadership Council takes an active role in shaping the work of the Institute. Members select topics for courses, recruit faculty, plan trips and gatherings, and lead project teams of Osher members for Curriculum, Marketing, Membership and Osher Give Back volunteering.

If you are interested in serving on an Osher project team, please contact the office at (804) 287-6344 or by email.