If you are a Minnesota resident aged 62 or older and want to expand your knowledge base, you have options at both the University of Minnesota and Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSC).
If you’d like to take classes for credit (to finish or start a degree), the cost (at this time) is $20/credit. If you’d simply like to audit a class – which will not require you to take tests or submit papers – at some institutions, classes are free.
Both options are subject to course enrollment limits and completing prerequisites. Additionally, some lab courses may have associated material fees. Auditing students are not required to buy books, but having a text greatly enhances the learning experience.
As a student, you are welcome to attend all lectures and participate in class discussions. Check with your instructor at the start of each class to verify their own expectations. Most texts today are electronic, and both U of M and MnSC have e-book providers.
Knowing I was going to be retiring last summer, a work colleague informed me about the options. I submitted my application with the U and a few days later I was approved.
I took two classes last fall, one online and one in person. Then I took three more classes this spring. It had been a few years since my last university experience, so it felt a bit odd to be back on campus. Yet as the saying goes: “it was like riding a bike.”
There are lot more electronics in the classroom – I felt a bit out of place on day one, using a notebook. But I quickly migrated to an iPad. The excitement of being back in a classroom engaging in discussions and learning is rewarding.
Classes are open to your interest and curiosity. Having a Ph.D. in psychology, I stayed away from psych classes and have enjoyed courses in literature, film, weather and mass media.
Check out this article from last fall from the Minnesota Daily for another senior student’s perspective.
Southwest Transit provides frequent and convenient service from Chaska and Chanhassen to stops on the University of Minnesota’s west bank and the east bank. Trips to and from campus take about 50 minutes.
Stop at the Metro Transit office downtown (719 S. Marquette Ave) and get your fee card set for senior fares and you can save on rides to and from campus – $1.00 each way during non-peak hours.
Further information
University of Minnesota
Information for the U of M’s Senior Citizen Registration Program. Registration for auditing students for Fall of 2025 starts Friday May 2.
Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSC)
MnSC schools administer their offerings by campus. Here are some local options. Some of the MnSC schools do charge fees for parking, facility or activities services.
Metro State – scroll down for Senior Program information
