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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I have to purchase an Osher membership before enrolling in courses?
     Yes, you do have to purchase a membership in order to participate in Osher courses.  Occasionally, there may be an event that is open to the public but it will be noted in the course description.  The Taste of Osher event does not require a membership to attend.  For information regarding membership options, please visit the membership options page.
  • Are there any exclusions in the Annual Membership that I should be aware of?
    While the Annual Membership allows you to take an unlimited number of courses throughout the year at no additional cost, some exclusions apply.  Destination Learning trips, special events, wine appreciation , art supplies for hands-on art courses, or entrance to museums for the art appreciation course are not covered.  For questions regarding the annual membership, please contact el@csusm.edu or call (760) 750-4020.
  • Is my OLLI at CSUSM membership valid at other OLLIs?
    No.  Every OLLI program is a separate entity and each university/college has its own membership program.
  • When and how do I register and pay for a course?

    Prior registration is required to attend OLLI courses.  Payment for each course is required in full at time of registration.  We accept MasterCard, VISA, Discover Card, American Express and checks.  There are three easy ways to register for OLLI courses:

    1. Online - The easiest and most secure way to register for a course is through the online portal.  Creating an account is required, but it’s quick and easy.  Registering online allows the option for payment by electronic check which eliminates the 2.75% credit card convenience fee.  See our step-by-step instructions for online registration (coming soon!).
    2. By Phone - Call the office of Extended Learning at (760) 750-4020.  All credit card payments are subject to a 2.75% convenience fee.  No electronic check payments will be accepted by phone.
    3. By Mail - Complete and mail the registration form found in the back of the course catalog to CSUSM Extended Learning at 333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Rd., San Marcos, CA 92096.  Checks should be made payable to CSUSM.  Please note, order by mail does not guarantee a seat in class.

     

  • Is parking included in my course fee and do I need a parking permit?

    Parking at all off-campus course locations is free and no parking permits are required.  Parking on campus requires a permit, 365 days a year no exceptions.  Parking fees for Osher members is currently $5/ day. 

     

  • What are your cancellation, drop, and refund policies?

    Cancellation notification must be made in writing.  Written notice should be emailed to el@csusm.edu or mailed with a postmark date three days prior to the first day of class to receive a full refund (less a $20 processing fee and  if it was paid with a credit card, the 2.75% convenience fee).  No refunds will be issued once a course has started.  Memberships are non-refundable and non-transferable.  Refunds may take four to six weeks for completion.

    If you can no longer attend a course you’ve enrolled in and you’d like to apply your funds to a different course, email el@csusm.edu at least three days prior to the start date.  No transfers will be completed once a course has started.

  • When are courses offered?
    Courses are offered in the fall, spring, and summer.  The fall and spring semesters are 10 weeks in length while the summer semester is five weeks in length.  Most courses meet one day a week for five weeks, or are single two-hour lectures scattered throughout the semester.  Select courses (writing and art appreciation) meet one day a week for ten weeks.
  • Who teaches the courses?
    OLLI at CSUSM instructors are exclusively selected and have tremendous expertise and passion for their fields of study.  Instructors include current and retired CSUSM faculty, faculty from other colleges and universities, experts in their respective fields, local authors and artists, medical professionals, and local law enforcement.  You can view instructor biographies on our website.
  • Where are classes held?
    Classes are held at various locations throughout North County and Southwest Riverside County and are subject to change each semester.  Destination learning and special event locations vary.  You can view a complete list of course locations on our website.
  • I’d like to request an OLLI presentation for my senior community or club. Who should I contact?
    We’d be happy to arrange an OLLI presentation for your community, club, or special event!  Contact Sherie Cambra; scambra@csusm.edu  or call (760) 750 - 8716 . 
  • Who should I contact if I am interested in teaching for Osher?
    We are always seeking new talent and courses to keep the program relevant, interesting, and exciting.  If you’re interested in becoming an OLLI instructor, please complete the instructor application (coming soon!) available on our website.  All inquiries are directed to program staff.  Please do not inquire by phone or email.