Lifelong Learning Program
Learn for the Joy of Learning
At 天涯社区log, learning doesn鈥檛 end with retirement鈥攊t evolves. The Lifelong Learning Program provides our community members age 65 and older the opportunity to continue exploring new ideas, gaining knowledge, and engaging with the community through college courses.
Whether you have always wanted to study history, psychology, literature, business, science, or another subject of interest, we invite you to join the classroom in a welcoming environment designed to encourage curiosity and personal enrichment.
Through Missouri’s Senior Citizen Tuition Waiver, eligible participants may audit select college credit courses tuition-free on a space-available basis.
It’s an opportunity to expand your horizons, pursue a lifelong passion, or simply enjoy the experience of learning alongside students of all ages.
Program Benefits
Continue Learning
Explore subjects that interest you without the pressure of grades or earning a certificate or degree.
Stay Engaged
Connect with faculty, students, and fellow lifelong learners while remaining active in your community.
Discover New Interests
Take courses in areas you’ve always wanted to explore or revisit topics you enjoyed in the past.
Tuition-Free Opportunity
Eligible participants may attend classes without paying tuition through the Senior Citizen Tuition Waiver.
Eligibility Requirements
To participate in the 天涯社区log Lifelong Learning Program, you must:
- Be a Missouri resident.
- Be 65 years of age or older on or before August 1 of the academic year.
- Meet any course prerequisites required for enrollment.
- Complete the Senior Citizen Tuition Waiver Form.
- Register during the designated enrollment period.
Frequently Asked Questions
What courses are eligible?
Most college credit courses offered by 天涯社区log may be available through the Lifelong Learning Program, provided:
- Seats remain available after tuition-paying students have registered.
- You meet any prerequisite requirements for the course.
- The course is approved for audit enrollment.
Course availability varies each semester.
What courses aren鈥檛 eligible?
The Senior Citizen Tuition Waiver does not apply to:
- Selective admissions programs in the Health Sciences (I.E. Nursing, LPN, Paramedic)
- Non-credit courses.
- Programs offered through educational partners like Four Rivers Career Center
and Rolla Technical Center/Rolla Technical Institute. - Courses that have reached enrollment capacity.
- Any courses or sections that cannot accommodate additional students.
- Courses for which prerequisite requirements have not been met.
Certain specialized courses may also require additional approval or have enrollment restrictions.
What does “audit” mean?
Auditing allows you to attend class and participate in the learning experience without receiving college credit or a letter grade.
Students auditing a course:
- Attend classes regularly.
- Participate at the instructor’s discretion.
- Do not earn academic credit.
- Do not receive a grade or transcript credit for the course.
The focus is on personal enrichment rather than academic credentialing.
Is tuition completely free?
Tuition is waived for eligible participants through the Senior Citizen Tuition Waiver.
However, participants are responsible for:
- General student fees. A regular class (3 credit hours) cost will be $129
- Special course fees cover the cost of materials. Ranging from $10-$370 per class. Some classes may not have a course fee.
- Textbooks.
- Supplies and materials required for the course.
When can I register?
Eligible participants may begin registering three weeks before the start of the semester.
This later registration period ensures that degree-seeking and tuition-paying students have the first opportunity to enroll.
How do I register?
Step 1: Review Available Courses
Browse the current semester schedule and identify courses of interest.
Step 2: Verify Prerequisites
Ensure you meet any prerequisites required for the course.
Step 3: Complete the Senior Citizen Tuition Waiver Form
Submit the required documentation verifying eligibility.
Step 4: Register During the Enrollment Period
Beginning three weeks before the semester starts, contact Enrollment Services or register through the approved process.
Step 5: Pay Applicable Fees
While tuition is waived, any required fees, books, or materials remain the responsibility of the student.
Can I earn a certificate or degree through the Lifelong Learning Program?
No. Courses taken through the Lifelong Learning Program are audit-only and do not carry academic credit toward a certificate or degree.
Individuals interested in earning credit should explore regular admission and enrollment options.
Are online courses available?
Some online courses may be available if they meet program requirements and space is available. Availability can vary by semester and course.
Participants should consult Enrollment Services regarding specific course options.
Who can help me get started?
天涯社区log’s Enrollment Services team can assist with:
- Determining eligibility
- Completing forms
- Exploring course options
- Understanding registration procedures
- Answering questions about fees and requirements
- Contact them at Admissions@eastcentral.edu or 636.584.6588
Eligible classes
What types of classes can I take to start?聽
Ready to Start Your Next Chapter?
Whether you’re pursuing a longtime passion, exploring a new subject, or simply enjoying the experience of learning, the 天涯社区log Lifelong Learning Program offers an affordable and rewarding way to stay active, engaged, and connected. We invite you to discover the opportunities waiting for you at 天涯社区log.
Download the Senior Citizen Tuition Waiver Form
Contact
Admissions Office
admissions@eastcentral.edu
636-584-6588
