About the Institute
Endowed by The Bernard Osher Foundation, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Boise State University is a membership-based lifelong learning program. We offer a wide variety of college-level, non-credit offerings for intellectually curious adults over age 50. The best part? No homework or exams!
There are over 120 Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes located in colleges and universities across the country. We are the only one in Idaho.
Membership-Based Lifelong Learning
Member and community support of the Osher Excellence Fund helps keep membership and course fees low. Membership fees are $35 for a semester or $70 for an academic year.
Membership is a prerequisite to participate in Osher Institute activities.
Membership includes access to register for offerings on a first-come, first-served basis, a personalized name badge, Yanke building parking permit, and subscription to our monthly
e-newsletter, Osher News.
All Institute offerings are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and some fill quickly on registration day. While early registration is strongly encouraged, you can become a member and register for offerings throughout the semester.
Registration for the fall semester opens in mid-June, and registration for spring opens in early December.
The Osher Excellence Fund supports our efforts to attract and retain expert faculty and presenters, offer high-quality programming, provide well-appointed classroom space, and keep membership and course fees low.
Member and community support of the Excellence Fund is instrumental to our ongoing success.
Member-Driven Curriculum
Four curriculum committees, led and served by members, assist the Director in identifying and exploring potential subjects derived from committee and member suggestions. Members are encouraged to suggest presenters and topics by completing evaluation surveys, dropping a card in our suggestion box, or contacting the Institute directly.
Browse CurriculumPresented by Faculty and Community Experts
The Osher Institute seeks out highly skilled faculty and community experts to help fulfill our mission of offering high-quality, college-level programming.
Accessible Classrooms
The Osher Institute is committed to providing an accessible experience for all members. Our building entrances, classrooms, and restrooms meet ADA requirements. During class, our presenters wear a microphone and hearing assistance devices are available for members in need.
Members may request an accommodation by contacting the Osher office.
Minutes from the Main Campus
Ron & Linda Yanke Family Research Park
220 E. Parkcenter Blvd.
Boise, ID 83706
The Osher office and classrooms are housed in the Yanke building. Unless otherwise indicated in its description, all offerings are held at 220 E. Parkcenter Blvd.
Find Us on Google MapsThe Bernard Osher Foundation
Boise State University is among a cadre of over 120 universities and colleges throughout the country that are endowed by The Bernard Osher Foundation.
Thanks to philanthropist Bernard Osher, lifelong learners in the Treasure Valley can benefit from his vision and generosity.
Community Sponsors
The Osher Institute gratefully acknowledges our community partners for their support of our mission of lifelong learning.