College. Continuing education. Foreign languages, mathematics, writing, art, music, history, science. Taking classes for fun or to work on a degree, college is for free if you are 62 and older and live in the state of Georgia.
The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia allows anyone 62 and older to sit in on classes where there is space available in almost all of the 30 Georgia's colleges and universities for free. Seniors have discovered they can audit or take classes for credit and not have to take the exams or earn a grade or they can take classes and work toward getting a degree. Opportunities are available for seniors to take classes that are challenging or fun. Seniors who are retired or seniors who are thinking of retiring can use their free time to learn something new. Studies have shown that as people age, learning something new keeps brains active and often wards off signs of Alzheimer's and dementia. Attending classes with young adults offers seniors the chance to make new friends and to sometime serve as a role model to younger students.
A Senior Citizen Guide for College at www.aseniorcitizenguideforcollege.com/2010/07/georgia.html, provides a comprehensive list of Georgia colleges and universities providing reduced or free tuition for seniors over 62. It's easy to contact the undergraduate admissions office at the Georgia college of your choice to find out how to register for classes. Admission offices will provide all of the information on registration and classes available.
In the Atlanta area, there are many community colleges and universities offering classes either free or for a minimal cost. Emory University, a private school, offers seniors the opportunity to take continuing education courses for only $49. If you are unable to leave your home to attend classes, look into auditing select university classes online. Usually the only fees encountered are for books or lab fees.
For information on the eligibility requirements to enroll in a Georgia college or university, visit The University System of Georgia website.
Many seniors have free time and continuing education is available. Don't stop learning. As the ad says – just do it!
