Lifelong learning classes from A to Z
If the winter doldrums are setting in, it may be time to stretch both your legs and your mind at any of a number of continuing education programs offered around town. From aerobics to zoology, there is sure to be something to pique your interest.
Here are just a few to consider. Call those of interest for more details, including topics, dates, times and fees.
Osher Lifelong Learning
The mission of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Towson University is to offer adults 50 and older opportunities for continued learning, along with programs and activities for social and cultural enrichment in a congenial and supportive environment.
Courses are offered in such areas as the fine arts, movies, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, languages, current events, and a book club.
Attend a preview of the classes on Jan. 19, at Goucher College, Merrick Lecture Hall, 1021 Dulaney Valley Rd. Check in begins at 9:30 a.m., and the free program is from 10 a.m. to noon. For more information or to make a reservation, call (410) 704-3688.
To get more general information about Osher, call (410) 704-3535, email osher@towson.edu, or visit www.towson.edu/outreach/osher.
Renaissance Institute at Notre Dame of Maryland University
The Renaissance Institute is an active group of men and women 50 and over who are interested in pursuing lifelong learning and intellectual growth. Courses include public affairs, literature, writing, history, philosophy, music, art, languages, t’ai chi, film, science, computers, water aerobics, dance and acting, and more.
For more information, call Linda Kuehn at (410) 532-5351, email lkuehn@ndm.edu, or visit www.ndm.edu.
Kaleidoscope Lifelong Learning at Roland Park Country School
The goal of Kaleidoscope is to foster a lifelong love of learning. More than 100 Kaleidoscope programs with more than 1,000 participants are held each semester in the fall, spring and summer. Programs include book talks; local, regional and international travel; creative pursuits; technology; culinary arts; personal development; and more.
For more information, call (410) 323-5500 ext. 309 or visit www.rpcs.org.
Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA)
The School for Professional and Continuing Studies at this renowned art school offers a wide range of fine arts and design courses, as well as professional development opportunities for creative professionals.
Continuing study classes are offered in the fields of photography; drawing, painting and general fine arts; ceramics, fibers and sculpture; printmaking; and jewelry (there is also a jewelry certificate course).
To learn more, call (410) 669-9200 or visit www.mica.edu.
Continuing Education at the Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC)
Life enrichment classes for all ages run the gamut from arts to boating, fitness, outdoor activities, crafts, health and wellness, hobbies, languages and more.
There is a separate division for seniors, with courses offered in such areas as the arts, computer, history/politics, and humanities and culture. For more information, call (443) 840-4700 or visit www.ccbcmd.edu.
Women’s Institute of Torah
The Rebbetzin Frieda K. Hirmes Women’s Institute of Torah (WIT) provides continuing education courses and programs to the women of the Baltimore Jewish community.
Courses and programs are designed to enhance personal knowledge and enrich one’s Jewish experience. Special lectures and a book club are also offered. For more information, call (410) 358-2545, email witbaltimore@verizon.net, or visit www.witbaltimore.org.
Institute for Christian and Jewish Studies
The Institute for Christian and Jewish Studies (ICJS) is a non-profit organization that concentrates on disarming religious hatred and establishing models of interfaith understanding.
Founded in 1987 by an interfaith coalition of laity and clergy, the ICJS offers a variety of educational programs that highlight the distinctiveness of the Christian and Jewish traditions and confront the misunderstandings that have evolved in the communities.
To learn more, contact Mary Krastel at mkrastel@icjs.org or (410) 494-7161, or visit www.icjs.org.
Odyssey Non-Credit Liberal Arts Programs at Johns Hopkins University
Odyssey has a wide selection of courses, workshops and lecture series delivered by JHU faculty and community experts. Personal enrichment programs are offered in fields ranging from science to art, writing to photography. For more information, call (410) 516-4842, email odyssey@jhu.edu, or visit odyssey.jhu.edu.