University of the Third Age

Learning never ends. Join a community of life-long learners, ages 55+, for a unique university experience.

USD President Harris Play Video
University of the Third Age 40th Anniversary

USD’s University of the Third Age (U3A) is the longest-running community outreach program on campus. It is a three-week program, held twice per year, that brings together avid learners, ages 55+, from a variety of backgrounds and industries to explore, discuss and interact together during sessions that span a range of interesting topics.

Current U3A Program

Get details and register for our upcoming program session.  Registration now open for the Winter 2021 Sessions!

View Current Program Details

Past U3A Programs:

Winter 2020 - Summer 2020
Winter 2019 - Summer 2019
Winter 2018 - Summer 2018
Winter 2017 - Summer 2017

Program Presenters

Presenters include some of San Diego's top leaders from across a variety of industries: business, government, military, medicine, health, science, technology, arts, literature, religion and education.

Our presenters represent university administrators and faculty, community leaders, published scientists, nonprofit executives, military and government officials and C-Level Suite Leaders.

All presenters are experts in their individual fields and highly regarded for their intellect and contributions to their respected disciplines.

Learning Outcomes

Intrigued by our program? If the learning outcomes appeal to you, then we would love to have you attend U3A:
  • Engagement with the University of San Diego for your educational and life-learning needs
  • Increased awareness and knowledge about a variety of topics
  • Opportunity to discuss and interact with industry experts
  • Keeping your mind and body alert and moving through physical and intellectual exercises
  • Connecting and re-connecting with new and old friends, while expanding your personal network of acquaintances
  • Developing an appreciation for learning through lectures and field trips about some of the most fascinating communities and organizations in San Diego
  • Intellectual stimulation through lectures, discussions and workshops

Testimonials

BlockQuote Congratulations on the 40th. This is a fabulous accomplishment and it remains a very viable component of USD's outreach and education. I feel privileged to have participated in it in the past. More important is the dedication you have had towards making it a signature attraction for retired and senior professionals in all walks of life. I can tell you the thrill of answering questions from some very bright minds after a presentation is an E-ticket ride!"
 — David Brennan, Professor-in-Residence, USD School of Law, and U3A Presenter

 
BlockQuote U3A is a wonderful, stimulating way to experience the pleasures and benefits of lifelong learning in a nurturing environment among like-minded others."
 — Joel Siegfried, Point Loma
 
 
BlockQuote An experience that offers intellectual growth, phenomenal community exposure and a heightened awareness of courageous aging at its best."
 — Cay Casey, PhD, RN (and USD Alumna)

Program Update: U3A Now Part of USD's Humanities Center

The College of Arts and Sciences at USD is pleased to announce that the University of the Third Age has a new home in the Humanities Center! This center is the university’s hub for public humanities, the meeting point of engagement and humanistic study, and is committed to ensuring its accessibility to the broader San Diego community.