Liberal Arts and 55+ program

SFU’s Liberal Arts and 55+ Program has been offering intellectually rich non-credit courses to older adult learners since the 1970s. Offered year-round, our courses cover topics ranging from art and literature to history, science, philosophy and more.

Classes are open to learners of all ages, with a tuition discount for those 55+.

Summer 2024 courses

In late March, we’ll announce the full list of courses coming in May. Registration will open in mid-April. 

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Off-Campus Online

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Tuition assistance

Thanks to generous donors, we offer tuition assistance to eligible students 55+ with demonstrated financial need, allowing them to pay a reduced rate per course (maximum five courses a year). Please contact us about eligibility requirements.

Contact us

Online Learning

You will need a computer with audio and microphone that is connected to the internet. Canvas is the online learning system used for all courses to access class resources. Zoom Meetings is used for courses that include live videoconferencing with instructors.

About Online Learning

Donate

Your gift to the Liberal Arts and 55+ Program will help maintain the outstanding quality and accessibility of our courses and events. Your contribution will also assist students 55+ for whom cost represents a significant barrier to lifelong learning.

DONATE

Events

Sign up for email updates

To stay informed about this program, please fill out the form below.

Yes, sign me up for the Liberal Arts and 55+ email list.

About our Collection of Personal Information policy.

If you’re 55+, you’re eligible to enroll in the Liberal Arts for 55+ Certificate. This optional program will allow you to:

  • Deepen your learning by writing a reflective essay at the end each course
  • Earn a certificate that confers SFU alumnus status along with its benefits
  • Take any Liberal Arts and 55+ courses you wish
  • Complete the program at your own pace

New to online learning or need help writing an essay? Register for a free online class.

Program details

Format

Part-time

Location

Vancouver, online

Program completion

No time limit
Complete 128 contact hours (usually 10–12 courses)

Course duration

4–6 weeks (2 contact hours/week)

Courses

Choose 10-12 courses offered by Liberal Arts and 55+ program

Schedule

Courses offered in all 3 SFU terms:
Jan–Apr
May–Jun
Sep–Dec

Essay requirements

Complete a 1,000- to 1,500-word essay at end of each course

Tuition

Pay individual course fee + $20 essay marking fee/course

Tuition assistance

Email csla@sfu.ca for details on available financial support

How to enroll

Register for any course and select the “Liberal Arts for 55+ Certificate Fee” optional add-on before completing your registration

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