National Osher Online
Osher Online was created by the Osher National Resource Center (NRC) at Northwestern University, to expand member access, institute collaboration, sharing of resources, and ensure the legacy of over 120 Osher Institues. These classes are delivered by the Osher NRC, and its staff will provide moderator and technical assistance.
Osher Online classes are $70 each, and available to OLLI members only.
Space is limited. Registration will open November 17 and close December 19, 2025.
We hope you enjoy the opportunity to learn from premiere instructors along with OLLI members from across the nation!
The Magic Behind Film Scores: Exploring the Role of Music in Great Movies
Wednesdays, January 14–February 18, 2:00–3:30 p.m. (PST)
Description
Discover how film music enhances storytelling, sets mood and place, defines character, and blends styles—jazz, classical, pop—into powerful cinematic impressions. We will discuss how composers shape emotion across genres like drama, romance, comedy, sci-fi, and westerns. From The Jazz Singer to James Bond, we will trace the evolution of film scores, spotlighting legendary composers such as Bernard Herrmann, Ennio Morricone, and John Williams. Celebrate the artistry of film music and its lasting emotional impact.
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Born in LA’s entertainment scene, Mike Agron is a former high-tech exec and entrepreneur who now creates and delivers dynamic, story-driven seminars on music and entertainment. With a storyteller’s eye and a DJ’s ear, he’s led 15 acclaimed seminar series, each spotlighting a different facet of music and entertainment, for the Sacramento Renaissance Society and national lifelong learning groups including OLLI, Osher Online, Encore Learning, and more.
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The American Revolution Beyond the British Empire
Saturdays, January 17–February 21, 10:00–11:30 a.m. (PST)
Description
This course reframes the American Revolution as a global event shaped by imperial rivalries and geopolitical forces. Each session focuses on a different group—Germans, French, Spaniards, South Asians, and others—revealing how their experiences intersected with the collapse of British rule in North America. By viewing the Revolution through a global lens, participants will uncover new perspectives on its causes, course, and consequences.
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Richard Bell, PhD, is Professor of History at the University of Maryland and author of Stolen, a finalist for the George Washington and Harriet Tubman Prizes. A National Endowment for the Humanities Public Scholar and Carnegie Fellow, he has held fellowships at Yale and Cambridge. His latest book, The American Revolution and the Fate of the World, was published in 2025.
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Invisible Intelligence: The Unseen Algorithms Reshaping Your Daily Life
Thursdays, January 15–February 19, 2:00–3:30 p.m. (PST)
Description
Artificial Intelligence (AI) shapes our daily lives in subtle yet powerful ways. In this non-technical course, we will explore six case studies that reveal how AI systems work, the ethics behind machine decision-making, and the impact of these technologies on our world. We will gain a deeper understanding of AI’s current influence—and the possibilities ahead.
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Eliot Bethke is a PhD candidate in computational bioengineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He previously worked in research and development at several Midwest start-ups, focusing on product design and manufacturing. After running a summer internship program, he shifted his focus to education and now shares his expertise in hardware and software development with future engineers.
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Landscapes and Adventure Photography: An Introduction
Mondays, January 26–March 2, Noon–1:30 p.m. (PST)
Description
This workshop will introduce participants to the skills and techniques used to create professional quality images of their adventures in the natural world. Topics will include controlling exposure, using depth of field, motion effects, the principles of visual communication, and the qualities of natural light. The course will incorporate slide-illustrated lectures, group discussions, and ample time for student feedback.
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Jonathan Duncan is a photojournalist, writer, teacher, and public speaker with more than 25 years of experience. His work has been published in National Geographic, The Himalayan Journal, Sailing, Rock and Ice, and by the University of Utah Press. He has taught at the Art Institute of Portland, Western Washington University, Westminster University, and the University of Utah’s Osher Institute. His work explores humanity’s complex relationship with the natural world, often in remote landscapes and cultures.
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Judaism, Christianity, and Islam: A Comparative Exploration
Thursdays, January 29–March 5, 10:00–11:30 a.m. (PST)
Description
Explore the rituals, beliefs, and writings of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam through a comparative lens. This course examines where these Abrahamic religions overlap and diverge, offering insights into their shared monotheistic roots and unique traditions. We will read key texts from each faith and gain a deeper understanding of how these religions shape meaning, practice, and identity.
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Jeremy Fackenthal, PhD, is an independent filmmaker and nonprofit director. He led the Common Good International Film Festival from 2019 to 2023 and holds a PhD in Philosophy of Religion and Theology from Claremont Graduate University. His work uses film to explore philosophical questions, including a short documentary on spoken word poetry and an upcoming feature-length film. He sees film as art, expression, and entertainment.
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Einstein Without Tears: His Theories Explained Without Math and in Everyday Language
Tuesdays, January 27–March 3, 2:00–3:30 p.m. (PST)
Description
Explore the fascinating world of Albert Einstein’s theories—no math or science background required. This course introduces key ideas like time travel, warped space, black holes, and gravitational waves, all in accessible terms. We will discover how modern science continues to confirm Einstein’s predictions and why his work remains a source of wonder for both scientists and science fiction fans.
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Andrew Fraknoi is the former chair of the astronomy department at Foothill College and now teaches noncredit astronomy courses at San Francisco State and the University of San Francisco. He is lead author of OpenStax Astronomy, the most widely used free introductory astronomy textbook in North America. Named California Professor of the Year in 2007, he frequently explains astronomy in everyday language on national radio programs. The International Astronomical Union named Asteroid 4859 Fraknoi in his honor as a recognition of his contributions to the public understanding of science. Learn more at http://fraknoi.com.
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Pharmaceuticals and Poisons: Chemistry at the Edge
Thursdays, January 22–February 26, Noon–1:30 p.m. (PST)
Description
Some substances heal, others harm—and some do both. This chemistry-rich (but non-technical) course explores the fine line between pharmaceuticals and poisons. We will examine drug development, venom-inspired medicine, and the history of FDA regulation shaped by scandal and reform. From aspirin’s industrial roots to Gila monster hormones, participants will uncover the fascinating, sometimes unsettling chemistry behind what we choose to swallow.
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Johnnie Hendrickson, PhD, is a Teaching Professor in the School of Molecular Sciences at Arizona State University. He holds a PhD in chemistry and is the author of the textbook Chemistry in the World. His academic work centers on science communication and the reciprocal relationship between science and society.
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Milestones in Medicine
Wednesdays, January 14–February 18, 8:00–9:30 a.m. (PST)
Description
This course highlights transformative milestones in medicine from the 18th century to today, beginning with Jenner’s smallpox vaccine. We will explore key medical and public health advances, the innovators behind them, and the profound effects these breakthroughs have had on longevity and quality of life. The course offers a compelling look at how science and clinical care have worked together to reshape health outcomes over the past two centuries.
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Gordon Josephson, MD, MPH, is a retired emergency physician and former Chief Operating Officer of Baystate Medical Practices in Springfield, Massachusetts. He holds a Master of Public Health from Harvard University and a medical degree from the State University of New York. Dr. Josephson remains active in the lifelong learning community and currently serves as president of the OLLI Board of Directors.
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The Noir Novel: Three American Classics
Tuesdays, January 20–February 24, 8:00–9:30 a.m. (PST)
Description
Explore the noir novel through Dashiell Hammett’s The Maltese Falcon, Raymond Chandler’s The Big Sleep, and Sara Paretsky’s Indemnity Only. From hardboiled detectives navigating gritty cityscapes to Paretsky’s feminist reimagining of the genre, this course traces the evolution of noir fiction. Film clips from classic adaptations will highlight the genre’s impact on both literature and cinema.
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Peter Kaye, PhD, is a retired faculty member from Northwestern University, where he combined administrative and teaching roles. He earned his doctorate in English literature and humanities from Stanford University, and his research led to the publication of Dostoevsky and English Modernism by Cambridge University Press. Over nearly 40 years in higher education, he taught a wide range of literature and interdisciplinary courses, with a focus on 19th- and 20th-century fiction. Now teaching online, he remains committed to lively, engaging instruction.
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History of Sicily
Mondays, January 26–March 2, 10:00–11:30 a.m. (PST)
Description
Sicily has been a mythic crossroads of heroes, conquerors, and culture for over 3,000 years. From Odysseus and the Arabo-Norman Golden Age to the Mafia and modern mythmakers like Garibaldi and Coppola, Sicily’s story is rich, complex, and central to Western history. This course explores its pivotal role in shaping civilization—and why Goethe famously said, “To have seen Italy without having seen Sicily is not to have seen Italy at all.”
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Douglas Kenning, PhD (University of Edinburgh), is a writer, lecturer, and former professor of literature and history. He has taught in the U.S., Tunisia, Japan, and Italy. Now based in the San Francisco Bay Area and Sicily, he offers dynamic lectures on Mediterranean civilizations and leads small-group tours exploring history, myth, and culture.
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Heroes of the Holocaust: Lights in the Darkness
Wednesdays, January 14–February 18, Noon–1:30 p.m. (PST)
Description
When we think of the Holocaust, we recall the horrors perpetrated by evildoers. Even in humanity’s darkest hours, courageous individuals risked everything to save lives. This course sheds light on these little-known rescuers—ordinary people who defied laws, resisted hate, and acted with moral clarity and compassion. Their uplifting stories are powerful reminders of resilience, morality, and hope.
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Howard Kerner, BA, MA (SUNY Albany), is a retired English professor who spent 47 years teaching and publishing over 100 scholarly articles, primarily on the Holocaust. In retirement, he researches and shares the powerful stories of little-known Holocaust rescuers. Through his talks at lifelong learning programs, he highlights acts of extraordinary bravery and altruism—offering timely reminders of human goodness.
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Using Google Workspace Tools with Confidence
Wednesdays, January 21–February 25, 4:00–5:30 p.m. (PST)
Description
This beginner-friendly course introduces Google Workspace tools like Drive, Gmail, Calendar, Docs, Sheets, and Slides. We will learn core features, basic navigation, and practical applications for personal and professional use. With guided instruction and real-world examples, the course builds confidence and foundational skills to boost productivity and collaboration.
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Chelsea King is a learning and development specialist with more than a decade of experience in teaching and training. She began her career as a high school English teacher and now focuses on adult learners, especially in professional development and technology integration. Her approach emphasizes practical, collaborative learning experiences that reflect her commitment to accessible, tech-forward instruction in both educational and corporate settings.
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Brain and Behavior in the Era of Digital Technology
Mondays, January 26–March 2, 8:00–9:30 a.m. (PST)
Description
Explore how digital technologies and artificial intelligence affect the brain, behavior, and mental health. This course examines the impact of modern devices on attention, memory, emotions, and decision-making, while addressing ethical concerns like privacy and tech-based addictions. We will learn how neuroscience and psychology offer tools to support well-being in a rapidly evolving digital world.
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Elena Labkovsky, PhD, is a neuroscientist and clinical neuropsychologist with over 30 years of experience in cognitive psychology and psychophysiology. She specializes in neurobehavioral modulation, integrating psychological, neuropsychological, and physiological approaches to support emotional and cognitive well-being. Her work focuses on how brain function shapes behavior and on developing innovative, research-based treatments for mental health challenges.
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More Than Parks: A History of American Conservation
Tuesdays, January 20–February 24, 10:00–11:30 a.m. (PST)
Description
Explore the evolution of American conservation from the 19th century to today. This course goes beyond national parks to examine how urban reformers, scientists, women activists, and Native communities shaped the movement. Through diverse stories and landscapes, we will gain a deeper understanding of how Americans have fought to preserve—and define—the natural world.
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Fraser Livingston is an environmental historian with a PhD in American history from Mississippi State University. His research focuses on the history of science, technology, and agriculture. He received the 2023 Gilbert C. Fite Award for Best Dissertation on Agricultural History and currently works on a book about conservationist George Bird Grinnell. He also serves as book review editor for Environmental History.
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Japanese History Through the Lens of Shogun
Tuesdays, January 20–February 24, 4:00–5:30 p.m. (PST)
Description
Inspired by the 2024 FX mini-series Shōgun, this course explores Japan’s transition from civil war to peace between the 15th and 18th centuries. We will examine the rise of key unifiers, the roles of diverse social groups (like merchants, peasants, women, and outcasts), and the era’s political, cultural, and artistic shifts. For fans of the series or those new to Japanese history, this course offers a rich, accessible introduction.
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Megan McClory is a doctoral candidate in history at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her research explores sword restrictions in early modern Japan and their role in shaping peace and power. A Global Research Fellow at Kokugakuin University, she has spent years living and studying in Japan and holds a BA from Brandeis University.
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The History of American Television
Mondays, January 26–March 2, Noon–1:30 p.m. (PST)
Description
This engaging, video-rich course tells the story of American television—from its 1920s origins to today’s streaming era. We will explore decades of iconic shows, genres, and cultural moments that shaped the medium and its audiences. From sitcoms and dramas to news and sports, we will rediscover how TV evolved, adapted, and transformed American culture—one broadcast, cable channel, and streaming service at a time.
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Jim McKairnes is a former CBS Television executive who writes and teaches about television history. He has taught at DePaul, Temple, and Middle Tennessee State universities, and is the author of All in the Decade, a book on 1970s television. Since 2020, he has taught regularly for OLLI programs across the country and currently lives in Knoxville, Tennessee.
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John James Audubon and the Birds of America
Thursdays, January 22–February 26, 8:00–9:30 a.m. (PST)
Description
In the 1820s, John James Audubon set out to document every bird species in the US, resulting in The Birds of America, a landmark collection of 435 hand-painted prints. This course explores Audubon’s life, artistic methods, and legacy, highlighting how his work bridges art and science. We will examine selected prints and consider his lasting impact on American natural history.
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Eric Simon, PhD, is a professor of Biology at New England College and holds a PhD in biochemistry from Harvard University. An avid traveler and award-winning nature photographer, he leads educational trips to destinations such as Belize, the Galapagos, Tanzania, Cuba, the Amazon River, and Patagonia. Simon is also the author of a best-selling series of college biology textbooks—used in over 40 countries—with more than 2 million copies in print.
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The Virtues
Wednesdays, January 14–February 18, 10:00–11:30 a.m. (PST)
Description
Virtue theory asks not just how to do good, but how to be good. This course explores timeless questions of character through the lens of thinkers like Aristotle, Jesus, the Buddha, and Confucius. We will reflect on key virtues—such as honesty, courage, compassion, and respect—and consider practical ways to cultivate them in daily life. The full series may be taught as two separate courses.
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
David Smith, PhD, is a scholar of religion and philosophy who was raised in a fundamentalist tradition and later became a progressive skeptic. He holds graduate degrees in philosophy of religion and religious studies from Temple University. A former professor at Central Washington University, he now teaches independent seminars and has published widely. His work empowers others to think critically about life’s big questions.
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How the US Immigration System (Usually) Works
Fridays, January 16–February 20, 8:00–9:30 a.m. (PST)
Description
Immigration has always been a complex and emotional issue in US history. This course explores how the immigration system has evolved and how it works today. We will examine key questions about identity, belonging, and national responsibility while engaging in thoughtful, constructive conversations about the future of immigration policy in the United States.
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Michele Waslin, PhD, is Assistant Director of the Immigration History Research Center at the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities. She develops research initiatives, educational resources, and public programs focused on global migration, race, and ethnicity. Waslin brings extensive experience in immigration policy and public scholarship, helping connect academic research with broader conversations on migration in the United States and beyond.
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Post Impressionism and the Birth of Abstraction
Mondays, January 26–March 2, 2:00–3:30 p.m. (PST)
Description
This course explores Post-Impressionism’s bold departure from naturalistic light and color, focusing on the expressive use of form, symbolism, and vivid, often unnatural color. Through the work of Cézanne, van Gogh, Gauguin, Seurat, and Matisse, we will trace the movement’s challenge to artistic norms and social values—laying the foundation for modern art and redefining the artist’s role in society.
About YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Lauren Weingarden is Professor Emerita of Art History at Florida State University. Her work explores the intersections of literature and visual art in 19th-century culture, focusing on figures like architect Louis Sullivan, Charles Baudelaire, and Édouard Manet. She has published widely and developed an embodied aesthetic model that helps viewers re-experience artists’ encounters with modernity and nature’s transience—an approach that informs her teaching on Impressionism.
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Dealing in Futures: The Shape of Science Fiction
Tuesdays, January 20–February 24, Noon–1:30 p.m. (PST)
Description
From pulp origins to mainstream dominance, science fiction has evolved into a powerful storytelling form that explores new worlds, ideas, and ways of thinking. This course traces the genre’s growth over two centuries, distinguishing it from fantasy and myth, and highlighting key authors who shaped its direction. We will discover how science fiction reflects cultural change and reimagines the future.
ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Gary Wolfe is emeritus professor of humanities at Roosevelt University and a critic for Locus magazine. He is the author of Evaporating Genres and editor of American Science Fiction volumes for the Library of America. Wolfe has received multiple awards, including a Hugo and a Ditmar for The Coode Street Podcast, which he co-hosts with Jonathan Strahan.
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Osher Integrative Health: Navigating Chronic Illness in a Complex Healthcare System
Fridays, January 30–March 6, Noon–1:30 p.m. (PST)
Description
This course, presented in partnership with the Osher Collaborative for Integrative Health, features expert speakers from their recent national conference, Navigating Chronic Illness in a Complex Healthcare System. Through engaging presentations and discussions, participants will explore how integrative health approaches can address the challenges of living with chronic conditions and help individuals make informed choices within today’s increasingly complex healthcare environment. Topics will focus on whole-person care, patient empowerment, and practical strategies for managing long-term health concerns.
About This Program
The Osher Collaborative for Integrative Health is a national network of academic health centers dedicated to advancing whole-person care. Through clinical innovation, research, and education, the Collaborative promotes evidence-based approaches that combine conventional and complementary therapies to support physical, emotional, and social well-being.
