How is the OLLI Program funded?

There are two sources of funds for the Osher program: The endowment from the Bernard Osher Foundation and membership fees.

How are my membership monies used?

In general, recurring charges directly related to class (room rentals, photocopying, etc.) comes from membership revenues; other charges come from the grant funds.

How old is the Cal Poly OLLI program?

We have been active since 2003. There are three terms per year.

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What is the endowment Cal Poly received?

The Cal Poly program satisfied the parameters set for endowment funding and received a $1 million endowment from the Bernard Osher Foundation in 2006.

How many OLLI programs are there?

There are 112 programs across the country, principally in California and Maine (Mr. Osher is from Maine).

How are classes selected?

A Curriculum Committee meets once each term to evaluate submissions and solicit proposals for classes. Click here to find out more about proposing a course.

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Does OLLI accept volunteers?

Absolutely! This is a big program and there are lots of areas (beyond instruction) that could use volunteer support.

Can I serve on a committee?

Absolutely! Again, there is a place for you; this is a volunteer-managed program that is supported by Cal Poly staff.

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How many courses may I take?

You make take as many courses as your schedule permits.

Who can teach a course?

You may volunteer to teach a course.  Before a course is included in the course catalog, potential instructors submit a course syllabus that outlines the nature of the course, instructor qualifications, and textbook requirements.  All teaching is voluntary and unpaid.  OLLI members teach many courses, but volunteers from outside OLLI are also used.

Simply propose a course to the program and we'll be happy to evaluate it for inclusion in whatever term you would like. Click here to read more about proposing a course.

Is there an age requirement?

Yes. You must be 50 years of age or older to join.

Why couldn’t I get the course I wanted?

The maximum number of students per course is decided by the instructor or by room capacity.  Students are enrolled in the order registration forms are received.  If your course is full, your name is placed on a wait-list and you will be contacted should someone drop out or the maximum number be increased.

Can I get a refund if I decide to withdraw from my course?

Due to the low cost at which these courses are provided and the additional cost it would take to process refunds, no refund is given for those who wish to withdraw from classes or from courses that charge a fee.

Will there be program changes?

Cal Poly Continuing Education reserves the right to substitute instructors, rearrange class schedules, or cancel classes due to low enrollment.  In case of class cancellation, you will be notified by phone and electronic mail, email.

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Are there scholarships?

Yes. A certain percentage of member fees goes towards funding scholarships.