History

After a formative stage in the winter and spring of 2001, our first classes were offered at the Hutchinson Center in the fall of 2001. We've just concluded our fourth full semester of classes (Spring, 2003); 54 volunteer teachers have contributed their time and talents to conduct 76 courses. In each of the first two years, more than 600 students have enrolled. We've also offered some 30 field trips or special events for our members.

Membership

Our 400+ members come from more than 45 towns throughout the midcoast area. Their backgrounds are diverse, interesting and sometimes surprising—just like the courses offered at Senior College. The only prerequisites for participation are a curious mind, life experience, and having reached the age of 55! (Younger spouses and partners of members are also welcomed as members.) In exchange, you'll have the time of your life, learning, looking and laughing with like-minded people. What you won't get are tests, grades or term papers. You will get mentally stimulated and nourished. The annual membership fee is $25; course fees are also $25, which includes all textbooks.

Volunteer Opportunities

We have a very active and creative Special Events Committee, which has recently joined forces with the Belfast YMCA's Active Older Adults Program, so members of both organizations can take advantage of even more opportunities to learn and travel comfortably. A sampling of recent and upcoming special events and field trips offered to our members includes the following: Field trip to the Farnsworth Art Museum Antiques Appraisal Fair Trip to Quebec City Cruise to Castine Historic Walking Tour of Belfast Day trip to Monhegan Bar Harbor Whale Watching trip.

All of these extracurricular events are available to Senior College members at a nominal cost.

Course Location

The campus is on the Route 3 approach to Belfast. It's a new facility, beautifully equipped and handicapped accessible, with ample, convenient parking.

Courses

All of our teachers are professionals in their fields, who teach for the joy of sharing their knowledge with people who are eager to learn new things and refresh old memories. Our instructors have included a retired professor of American history who has received three Fulbright Awards; a Beloit College emeritus professor of art; a botanical illustrator whose work has won prestigious national awards; the director of the Maine Preservation Commission; and a retired university dean who holds advanced degrees in Spanish and French and a doctorate in comparative literature. The only thing more amazing than our instructors' backgrounds and experiences are those of our members. Together, the joy of learning is almost palpable at our Senior College.

Course Catalog

Senior College at Maine Hutchinson Center course catalog

For More Information

Senior College
University of Maine Hutchinson Center
RR3 Box 653
80 Belmont Avenue
Belfast, ME 04915

Phone: (207) 338-8033

Online:http://www.belfastseniorcollege.org/