Continuing Education

Although it may sometimes seem so, it’s not all outdoor life and fresh air in Central Oregon (golf, golf, golf).  Opportunities are also available to exercise the mind.  At present, three higher education facilities provide educational services to the area, enabling inquiring minds to explore new hobbies or areas of interest.  Whether it’s arts and crafts that interest you, or developing computer expertise, or perhaps learning more about the local flora and fauna, there is probably a class for you.  Our intrepid researchers even found a class in Care of Your Glock Pistol.

Central Oregon Community College (COCC) offers the broadest range of Continuing Education non-credit courses.  Classes meet at the Bend COCC campus, or the Redmond campus.  Some classes are even offered online.  Offerings include arts and crafts, business and employee development, computers, fitness and health, home and garden, photography, languages and culture, recreation, and the ever popular “special interest.”  Click the links above for complete information and current schedules. 

Oregon State University Cascade Campus in Bend also offers continuing education classes, sometimes with regional field trips along with lectures.  While their main pursuit in Central Oregon is in their degree programs, special non-credit classes are available periodically.  Announcements of these classes can be found in local newspapers.   

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) is the University of Oregon’s vehicle for providing - well, lifelong learning in Central Oregon.  It is a member-run program designed to meet the needs and interests of mature adults.  Active participation is expected.  Members help develop programs, activities and special events.  Activities include monthly lectures, ongoing study and discussion groups, and tours.  OLLI publishes a newsletter and a calendar, as well as holding an Open House three times a year.  These are open to any member of the community.  For additional information, call (541) 617-4663 or (800) 824-2714.  Click the above weblink for a program overview and membership application.

In addition to institutions of higher learning, Parks and Recreation Districts in Bend, Redmond, and other local communities offer adult classes.  Each publishes a schedule of classes which may be obtained through any public library or by contacting them through their respective websites.  For Redmond, see www.coprd.org  and for Bend, http://www.bendparksandrec.org.  (For the curious, we found the Glock Care class at Redmond Parks and Rec.). 

Speaking of public libraries, Deschutes County has a superb public library system.  Whether you're interested in self-education in a particular area of endeavor or just wish to "borrow" the latest Dean Koontz thriller, visit http://www.dpls.lib.or.us for library locations, hours and other information.