There are no exams, no grades, and no previous educational requirements. Courses are taught by regular college faculty or other experts. Food, lodging, and class instruction are included in the cost of programs. The University of Minnesota joins a network of more than 240 institutions in the United States and Canada in offering peer-directed, noncredit educational and service opportunities for older adults through an Institute for Learning in Retirement. There are no exams or grades.
Topics range from architecture to alternative medicine and exploring the classics to memoir writing.
Volunteer topic leaders are current or retired faculty, community professionals, and other experts. Members and leaders have a common passion for lifelong learning. There is an informal summer program of biking, activities, and visits to local sites of interest. ELI also coordinates national and international educational tours. Members may take two or more topics per session and participate in social, service, and travel activities.