Do you have scholarly knowledge about a particular subject? A unique interest or professional expertise? A burning passion? Do you enjoy bringing that topic to life for others? If yes, consider volunteering as an OLLI course leader!
Our instructors embody a world of experience and interests. As such, they are key to what makes OLLI courses vibrant and varied. (And no, you don’t need to have professional teaching experience to join us!)
About OLLI Courses
OLLI offers courses—both in person and online—during four distinct terms for a total of nearly 300 courses annually. Couple that with the diverse range of subject matter taught by our instructors, and it’s clear why OLLI has something for everyone!
Your course may provide a high level overview of a topic in a single session. Or it may involve a more detailed deep dive that requires multiple sessions. Some course leaders build on existing resources (for example, Top 10 Ted Talks), while others draw on their own experience and expertise. We welcome a variety of topics, structures, and ideas.
Courses range from one to seven sessions each term, and generally meet once per week (M–F) at one of the following times: 10–11:30 a.m., 12:30–2 p.m., and 2:30–4 p.m.
Want to learn more about OLLI classes? Visit the OLLI Courses page where you will find our most recent course guide as well as an archive of guides from the past few years.
Important Dates
Intergenerational and Intercultural Programs
OLLI believes strongly in the benefits that come with intergenerational and intercultural learning, and has a rich history of nurturing such exchanges through the Culture Corps and OLLI Scholars programs.
Culture Corps
OLLI members embrace experiences that offer unique perspectives and insights. Enter Culture Corps, a program of the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) office. This program encourages international students to become active in the University community.
An annual ISSS scholarship allows OLLI to host several graduate students each year, giving them valuable teaching experience and OLLI members the learning they crave. The exchange also helps fulfill mutual visions of an inclusive and engaged international learning community.
If you are a Culture Corps student interested in teaching for OLLI, contact ISSS.
OLLI Scholars
Each year, up to 20 UMN graduate students and postdoctoral researchers are selected to develop curricula and teach OLLI courses in their respective areas of expertise. OLLI Scholars receive valuable teaching experience and stipends of $1,000. Members benefit from learning about the current research and scholarship happening at the University, in a variety of fields.
Course Leader Resources
Course Leader Handbook
For more on our approach to teaching and learning, see the latest version of OLLI Course Leader Handbook.
Peer Mentoring for Course Leaders
Do you have questions about or need training and assistance in order to teach online? OLLI offers peer mentoring for course leaders whose proposals have been accepted, including assistance with Zoom technology and guidance as you develop your course.
Unsure about using specific software such as PowerPoint, Google Slides, or Zoom? Don’t worry. We can help you get up to speed. We can also connect you with a peer mentor who can help you design and develop your course, as well as offer support when you are teaching.
Have an Idea for a Course or Course Leader?
We’d love to hear your ideas! Are you looking for a course on a particular topic? Do you know someone who would make a great OLLI instructor? Recommend a Course or Course Leader.
Do you have an idea for a course but aren’t quite certain? We’re happy to answer your questions and talk you through your ideas. Simply email olli@umn.edu.