email this page print this page bookmark this page

Program Information

PROGRAM STRUCTURE

University of the Third Age is a life-long learning program for people 55 years and older. For 30 years, this three-week program has been held biannually in January and July – offering sessions with interesting speakers who convey valuable insight in to an array of fascinating topics, and who have added an interesting and new dimension to the lives of hundreds of people. This year is USD's University of the Third Age 30th Anniversary, and hence we can't just celebrate for 3 weeks. Therefore, we are celebrating with a full calendar of events, and we invite you to join us! Please mark your calendars:

U3A Winter Session
January 12-29, 2009

U3A Summer Session
July 2009 (details to be announced)

The University of the Third Age meets four days a week for three weeks, biannually (January and July). Twenty-four individual sessions are offered covering a wide variety of topics, including the arts, current affairs, history, science, medicine and technology. The program features University of San Diego faculty and staff, presenters from other colleges and universities, governmental agencies, the business and arts community, non-profit agencies, and much more!

In addition to the speaker series, workshops are hosted and meet from 8:00 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. each morning. The workshops include*:

Beginning/Intermediate Computers
You will learn how to become Googlers, Share Tips to make life in computerland easier...Set up E-mail Groups, Basic Photo Skills and an Open- Forum for Learning....We are going to have fun while we learn!!!

Conversational Spanish
Learn Spanish and have fun! Learn key phrases and cultural tips that will help you communicate in Spanish. Easy-to-follow handouts and exercises will help you remember material covered in class. Improve your pronunciation and build your vocabulary. Pick a topic, learn a few words and tricks and you'll be ready to talk about it, ¡en español!

T'ai Chi Chaun Exercise
T'ai Chi is an ancient Chinese system of moving meditation, called the internal martial art. Though it is based in the martial arts, the flowing, gentle movements and focus on breathing are intended to help the individual achieve an overall sense of well being and longevity, in addition to providing several physical and mental health benefits. It can help to improve breathing, circulation, posture, and balance, thus improving stability and reducing the risk of falling. It also can help to improve muscle tone and strength as well as flexibility, mobility, and range of motion in the joints. For hose suffering from arthritis, fibromyalgia, osteoporosis, multiple sclerosis, and other debilitating conditions, recent studies show that T'ai Chi can provide relief from pain, soreness, stiffness, and loss of strength, mobility, and range of motion associated with these and other related conditions. T'ai Chi is a pleasant and effective way of relaxing, relieving stress, developing mental focus, and building and maintaining overall good health, vitality, and quality of life.

As far as attire goes, wear comfortable clothing that you can move in easily and comfortable, preferably, flat-soled shoes.

* Depending on Instructor availability these workshops may vary from session to session. Check the Schedule of Speakers for updated information.