The Center for Continuing Education offers community education programming designed for lifelong learners looking to explore interests and expand their knowledge.
Brew 101: A Sampling of Beer Styles
September 4, 2024 – December 19, 2024 OR January 22, 2025 – May, 15, 2025
Wednesdays, 6-7 pm | Available via Zoom
Program may be taken for academic credit or non-credit.
Join our UW-Superior faculty and students in this virtual course to learn about the history, process, and the modern styles of beer. Topics include: history of beer making; basic brew ingredients; discussion of the brewing process; parameters that define differences in beer styles, such as aroma, flavor, color and mouth feel. Participants will be expected to purchase and sample specific beer styles throughout the course. Prerequisites: 21 years of age or older by course start date.
Cost: $199
Science of Brewing Certificate
September 2024 – December 2025
Mondays, 4 – 8 pm | Available in person
Program may be taken for academic credit or non-credit.
Whether you’re an experienced homebrewer or just looking to start, this two-part series provides a unique hands-on educational opportunity to dive into the science behind your favorite brews and how to craft the perfect pint of beer through in-depth chemical analysis. To receive the Science of Brewing Certificate, you must be 21 years of age or older and complete Science of Brewing I (fall semester) and Science of Brewing II (spring semester).
Cost: Science of Brewing I $599, Science of Brewing II $599
Credit cost: Please call 715-394-8469 or email conted@uwsuper.edu for more information.
55+ Programming
Programs geared toward those 55 years of age and older.
Music in the Movies
October 1, 8, 15, 22, 2024 | 10 – 12 pm | Available in person
This four-part series, facilitated by Dr. Erin Aldridge, will look at the fascinating world of music in movies, showcasing important scores like the “talkies” to the present day. From various styles and approaches to genres and composers, you’ll learn how music and silence can work with each scene, including its integration on the conscious and subconscious levels. This course is geared toward adults 55 years of age or older. No prior musical or film knowledge is necessary.
Cost: $40
Mid-Life and Beyond: Strategies for Healthy Aging and Connecting to Community
A Full-Day Event for 55+ | Friday, November 15, 2024
Join this 55+ event dedicated to fostering connections, learning, and empowerment. With regional experts, this enriching event is tailored to address the pressing issues of social isolation, loneliness, and overall well-being. Engage in insightful discussions, connect with fellow community members, explore valuable resources, and be inspired by speakers. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to flourish together!
This program is funded in part by the John Allan Kunz Fund for Reminiscence and Life Review of the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation.
Cost: $69 for ages 55+ and UW-Superior students, $149 for ages under 55
ROAD SCHOLAR – Program 24850: A Superior Exploration: Lake Superior’s History & Ecology
Four date ranges to choose from:
Jun 22 – Jun 27, 2025 | Jul 20 – Jul 25, 2025 | Aug 3 – Aug 8, 2025 | Aug 17 – Aug 22, 2025
“Superior” learning awaits on this adventure through northern Wisconsin’s natural wonders — explore the ecology and human history of this fascinating Great Lake!
At a Glance
From Lake Superior’s glacial and tectonic geology to its significance to indigenous peoples and importance to environmental research, the largest freshwater lake in the world makes a fascinating study. Embark on a journey exploring western and southern Lake Superior, including a history of the Twin Ports, field trips to historical sites and presentations by local indigenous elders and historians. Enjoy hands-on learning experiences, wading in the rivers of the Brule River State Forest to catch and identify aquatic creatures and exploring natural wonders through canoeing and hiking!
What You’ll Learn
Investigate freshwater ocean ecology through the University of Wisconsin-Superior’s Lake Superior Research Institute Floating Classroom, a new hybrid research and educational vessel. Learn from park experts about the rich geology and ecology of Amnicon Falls State Park, Pattison State Park and Jay Cooke State Park. Explore the indigenous history of the area through presentations from a local tribal historian and tribal environmental scientist.
Activity Level
On Your Feet (I’m comfortable with some walking throughout the day. I expect to get on and off of a coach, and
I’m ready to stroll through cities and to stand for a few hours when we’re learning in museums.)
55+ Program Membership
Unlock endless possibilities with our introductory 55+ Program Membership this spring! Enjoy access to a variety of engaging programs tailored for individuals aged 55 and older, available from January through June. The membership pass will give you access to all program offerings available. We are excited to introduce wide array of new programming to you! If you are not interested in the membership, individual program registration is still available. Workshop capacities will vary.
Membership cost: $100 for access to all Spring 2025 program offerings available
Workshops (may be taken together as part of the membership or individually):
Graceful Aging: Yin Yoga for Vitality
January 7, 14, 21, & 28 2025 | 10 am – 11 am
Location: UW-Superior
Facilitator: Liz Amys
Graceful Aging: Yin Yoga for Vitality is a gentle and restorative yoga class designed specifically for those aged 55 and older. This practice focuses on deep stretching, relaxation, and mindful breathing to improve flexibility, joint mobility, and overall
well-being. Whether you’re new to yoga or a seasoned Yogi, this class provides a supportive environment to nurture your body, calm your mind, and enhance your vitality as you embrace the beauty of aging gracefully. No prior experience is needed—just bring your curiosity and a willingness to unwind.
Snowshoeing Basics and Trail Practice
January 21, 2025 | 1 pm – 3 pm
Location: UW-Superior; transportation to and from trail provided
Facilitator: Sean Monnier
Embark on a winter journey with a hands-on lesson in snowshoeing techniques and safety, then head out on a guided trail to practice your new skills. Enjoy a fun, scenic journey through snowy landscapes and build the confidence to explore winter trails on your own. Transportation and gear will be provided.
Evolution of Western Music Styles and Musical Forms
January 23 & 30 and February 6, 13, 20, & 27, 2025 | 10 am – 12 pm
Location: Virtual, Zoom
Facilitator: Lois Guderian
In this 6-session course, participants will experience a big-picture view of how musical styles evolved in Western music to present time. Beginning with the study of the elements of music, through guided listening experiences, discussion, comparisons, and learning techniques that support the development of understanding in music, participants will further develop their abilities to perceive musical phenomena during listening experiences, expand their knowledge in the primary music styles and composers in Western music history, and deepen their knowledge and understandings in the connections between styles.
Disability Visibility Book Club
February 12, 19, 26, and March 5, 2025 | 2 pm – 3 pm
Location: UW-Superior
Facilitator: Stephanie Warden
In this book club, we will be reading Disability Visibility: First Person Stories from the Twenty-First Century. From the book description: One in five people in the United States lives with a disability. Some disabilities are visible, others less apparent—but all are underrepresented in media and popular culture. Now, just in time for the thirtieth anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, activist Alice Wong brings together this urgent, galvanizing collection of contemporary essays by disabled people.
This book is comprised of many impactful stories. Each week will offer an opportunity for deep reflection and to share with the group.
Navigating Family Conflict and Healing Intergenerational Bonds
February 14, 21, 28 & March 7, 2025 | 10 am – 12 pm
Location: Virtual, Zoom
Facilitator: Brittnie Peck
Every person wants to be understood and appreciated. Conflict in close relationships often arises when we feel one of these things is not true. In this session, we will discuss strategies for navigating conflict in close relationships successfully, with a special focus on conflict between parents and children– both youth and adult. We will also discuss how to heal past conflicts that have had a lasting effect on our relational bonds.
Outdoor Skiing Essentials and Trail Practice
February 25, 2025 | 2 pm – 4 pm
Location: UW-Superior; transportation to and from trail provided
Facilitator: Sean Monnier
Get ready to hit the cross-country skiing trails. This program kicks off with a lesson on skiing fundamentals, including techniques and safety. Afterward, enjoy a guided practice session on a local trail, with transportation and gear provided for your convenience. Perfect for beginners eager to learn and explore the thrill of outdoor skiing!
Nutrition for the Second Part of Life
March 10, 17, 24, 2025 | 9 am – 10:30 am
Location: Virtual, Zoom
Facilitator: Kim Lebard-Rankila
Join this transformative program for individuals aged 55 and above, focusing on optimizing health through targeted nutrition. This engaging three-session series covers enhancing brain, gut, and liver health; managing hormonal changes such as stress, menopause, and andropause; and using food to address chronic diseases, inflammation, and support mental well-being. Participants will gain essential, science-backed strategies and practical tools to thrive and enhance their well-being in this vibrant stage of life.
Climb On: Tutorial and Practice Session
March 20 & 27, 2025 | 7 pm – 9 pm
Location: UW-Superior
Facilitator: Sean Monnier
Join us to learn and practice climbing skills at the UWS Marcovich Wellness Center! In the first session, get a hands-on tutorial on our campus climbing wall, covering basics, safety, and technique. The second session offers a chance to apply your new skills with continued guidance. This series is an intergenerational opportunity with UW-Superior students participating.
Music in the Movies: The Sequel
March 27, 2025 and April 3, 10 & 17, 2025 | 10 – 12 pm | Available in person
Immerse yourself in the captivating realm of film music with this four-part series, facilitated by Dr. Erin Aldridge. Building upon the success of the first Music in the Movies program, this continuation delves deeper into the world of compilation scores, action film music, and extraordinary works of composers like Danny Elfman and Hans Zimmer. From a diverse range of styles and approaches, you’ll learn more about the profound impact of film scores on both conscious and subconscious levels. This course is geared towards adults 55 or older, with no prerequisite, musical, or film knowledge required.
Cost: $40
Exploring the Arts
May 22 & 29, 2025 and June 5, 2025 | 2 – 4 pm | Available in person
Unleash your inner artist and immerse yourself in the captivating world of visual expression. Perfect for beginners and seasoned artists alike, this in-person workshop invites you to harness the power of creativity. With expert guidance and all the necessary materials at hand, you’ll embark on a transformative journey that inspires you to bring your unique vision to life. No prior art knowledge or experience is required to participate—just come with the willingness
and enthusiasm to explore.
Cost: $40 (cost of materials included)