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 3, 2025 – December 18, 2025 OR January 21, 2026 – May, 14, 2026
(both sessionscontain the same content, so register for the one that works best for you!)
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 8, 2025 – December 18, 2025 & January 26, 2026 – May 14, 2026
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 [email protected] for more information.
55+ Programming
Programs geared toward those 55 years of age and older.
Lifelong Learning Membership
Members can enjoy full access to all programs available during their registration period. Participants may register for individual workshops, choose a half-year membership or enroll for the full year.
Full Year Membership cost: $275
Fall or Spring Membership cost: $150
Individual Workshops Non-Member Costs Vary. See descriptions below for each workshop price.
Membership includes day-long parking passes for on-campus programs and early updates through our email list. We also offer flexible program options to fit a variety of interests and schedules. Participants may register for individual workshops, choose a half-year membership, or enroll for the full year.
While our programs are designed with adults aged 55 and older in mind, we welcome all participants aged 18 and above.
Workshops
Workshops may be taken together as part of the membership or individually
Fall 2026
Group Travel: Experience the World and Make New Connections
August 19, 2026 | 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Available in-person and online
The UW-Superior Alumni & Friends Foundation invites you to see the world! Learn all about upcoming adventures to the world’s top destinations. Each group tour, brought to you by Collette, is designed to enrich the educational, cultural and intellectual experiences of travelers. They make travel easy and affordable, with carefully planned trips at an exceptional value. 2027 and 2028 tours include Northern Vietnam, Holland & Belgium (River Cruise), Peru, Christmas Markets of Montreal & Quebec City and Japan.
Cost: Free
Finding your Flash in Writing
September 2 & 9 | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. | Available in-person
In this two-week course, we will focus on the fundamental building blocks of story by examining “story beats” in both literary classics and by reading flash fiction examples. We will look at genre and literary fiction, allowing you to find your voice within. After examining examples, you will have a variety of prompts to craft a narrative (or come ready with your own idea, ready to edit!). This class will give you the opportunity to work in pairs, editing and distilling your piece down to its core. After several rounds of revision and discussion, you will leave with a piece ready to pitch.
Non-Member Cost: $40
Voices of World War II: Stories from the Northland
September 22, 29 & October 6, 13, 2026 | 9 – 11 a.m. | Available in-person
Voices of World War II: Stories from the Northland is a four-part series that brings regional history to life through powerful local connections to WWII. Participants will explore the legacy of Major Richard Bong and the recent successful mission to Papua New Guinea to locate his famed P-38 “Marge,” examine the critical role of shipbuilding and the contributions of both men and women on the Twin Ports home front and hear compelling stories of local figures such as Tuskegee Airman Joe Gomer and Congressman John Blatnik’s lesser-known service with the OSS. The series concludes with an exclusive behind-the-scenes museum and archives tour, offering rare access to artifacts and stories not on public display.
Non-Member Cost: $80
Art Journaling: From Simple Shapes to Masterpieces
September 24, 2026 | 2:30 – 4 p.m. | Available in-person
Discover the joy of creative expression through art journaling. In this hands-on workshop, participants will explore how simple shapes and patterns can evolve into richly layered felt compositions. Using accessible techniques and materials, you’ll experiment with color, texture and form to create a unique “masterpiece” that reflects your personal style. No prior experience is needed—just curiosity and a willingness to play.
Non-Member Cost: $15
Mapping the Self: The Hand, The Head, The Heart (Art Program)
October 1, 2026 | 2:30 – 4 p.m. | Available in-person
Embark on a creative journey of self-exploration through art. This reflective workshop invites participants to examine identity through three powerful lenses: the hand (what we do and create), the head (what we think and understand) and the heart (what we feel and value). Using a mix of drawing, mapping and mixed-media techniques, you’ll create a visual “personal geography” that captures your experiences, perspectives and inner landscape. Ideal for anyone interested in creativity, reflection and meaningful artistic expression.
Non-Member Cost: $15
Finding your Resistance in Writing
October 14, 21, and 28, 2026 | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. | Available in-person
If storytelling is what makes us human, it is resistance writing that makes us a united people. This three-week course will harness the power of words to express solidarity and examine identity. Through the words of great orators such as Martin Luther King, Emmeline Pankhurst and Nelson Mandela, we will explore human rights in the U.S., England and South Africa. We will examine speeches made in New Zealand’s parliament along with the Māori Haka and how it was used to advocate for the rights of the Māori people. We will read poetry from Toni Morrison and journal entries from Malala Yousafzai to see the various forms resistance writing can take. Through literary analysis, we will be inspired to share our voices and take action in a way that feels authentic and right. There will be time carved into these sessions for writing and feedback.
Non-Member Cost: $60
Beginner’s Yoga
October 15, 22, 29 & November 5, 2026 or April 8, 15, 22, 29, 2027
9 – 10 a.m. | Available in-person
Beginner’s Yoga offers an opportunity to explore the basics of movement, breath and mindfulness in a supportive and welcoming environment. Each session introduces simple poses and techniques to build strength, flexibility and relaxation. No experience necessary and everyone is welcome.
Non-Member Cost: $40
Jazz Appreciation
October 16, 23, 30, and November 6, 2026 | 1 – 2:50 p.m. | Available in-person
Explore the rich history and vibrant evolution of jazz in this engaging 55+ program. From the foundational elements of music and instrument identification to the defining principles of jazz, participants will build a deeper understanding of the genre. The course journeys through pre-jazz, early jazz, the Swing Era and mid-century styles, before diving into developments from the 1970s to today. Whether you’re new to jazz or a longtime listener, you’ll gain a greater appreciation for the sounds, stories and artists that continue to shape jazz now. Discover why jazz is toe-tapping, or pensive, or wildly successful, or multi-cultural, or artistic and expressive, or a blast!
Non-Member Cost: $80
Cybersecurity Basics
October 26, 2026 | 10 – 11:30 a.m. | Available in-person
Keep yourself and your loved ones safe with easy cybersecurity habits and tools you can implement right away. In this session, learn how scammers use social engineering tactics to trick people and what you can do to avoid falling victim (featuring trending scams you need to know about). We will define core concepts like MFA, antivirus, spoofing and phishing. You also will receive information on free resources to stay in the know beyond the session. No prior knowledge of cybersecurity is needed.
Non-Member Cost: $15
Book Club: Homeschooled, the memoir
October 27 & November 3, 10, 17, 2026 | 1 – 2 p.m. | Available in-person
Join us for a thoughtful discussion of a powerful memoir exploring unconventional education, family dynamics and the lasting impact of childhood experiences. Through one author’s deeply personal story of growing up in a complex home environment, this book offers a compelling look at the universal human experience of navigating love, challenge and identity. Together, we’ll reflect on resilience, forgiveness and the ways our past shapes who we become.
Non-Member Cost: $40
Finding your View in Writing
November 4 and 11, 2026 | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. | Available in-person
In this two-week course, we will examine first, second and third-person points of view as well as omniscient. Through reading examples of each, the group will gain a better understanding of what works, what doesn’t and why. Through imagery and writing prompts, participants will have an opportunity to tell the same story from a variety of viewpoints. There is no wrong way to showcase a narrative, but one can be intentional. This class will help you assess the deepest core of that story — the viewpoint.
Non-Member Cost: $40
Self-Advocacy and Partnering in Healthcare:
Empowering Yourself and Others
November 13, 20, December 4, 11, 18, 2026 | 1 – 2 p.m. CST | Available online
Many of us have experienced traditional healthcare where the provider makes most of the decisions. Today, a growing number of health experts recommend a more collaborative approach called patient-centered care. In this model, you—the patient or health consumer—work together with your doctors, nurses and other healthcare providers as an active partner to get the best possible care.
This program will help you explore and strengthen the patient-provider relationship through real-life health communication examples, practical strategies and discussion. You’ll learn how to advocate effectively for yourself and for loved ones (such as aging parents, spouses or children) in healthcare settings. By the end of the program, you will feel more confident communicating with physicians, nurses and other healthcare professionals, and better equipped to take an active role in your own health and the health of those you care about.
Non-Member Cost: $50
Spring 2027
Book Club:Water Bearers, the memoir
February 3, 10, 17 & 24, 2027 | 3 – 4 p.m. CST | Available online
Join us for a meaningful discussion of a powerful memoir that traces generations of motherhood, exploring the intertwined legacies of love, resilience and inherited pain. Through one woman’s journey to understand her family’s past and redefine her approach to parenting, this book invites us to reflect on how history shapes our identities and the choices we make for the future.
Non-Member Cost: $40
Exploring Korean Music: Samul Nori Drumming
February 5, 12, 19, & 26, 2027 | 2 – 3:30 p.m. | Available in-person
Join us for a four-week introduction to Korean Samul Nori drumming. This hands-on class focuses on learning foundational drumming techniques and rhythmic patterns using traditional instruments provided on-site. Participants will build skills within this drumming tradition while gaining cultural insight. Designed for beginners, this engaging experience connects music-making with Korean cultural traditions. This program will culminate with a participant performance on February 26 at 6 p.m., where family and friends are invited to celebrate what was learned while promoting appreciation for Korean culture and music.
Non-Member Cost: $60
Functional Nutrition and Movement
February 16, 23, & March 2, 2027 | 2:30 – 4 p.m. CST | Available online
Join this transformative program 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 and functional alignment 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.
Non-Member Cost: $45
Poetry at the Thresholds
March 2, 9, 16, & 23, 2027 | 10 – 11 a.m. CST | Available online
This workshop uses poetry to explore the concept of thresholds and liminal spaces—those in-between moments that shape our experience. These spaces may be as fleeting as the pause between one moment and the next, or as expansive as the transition from one era to another. There will be a variety of poems provided, encouragement but no pressure to write your own, and plenty of space for discussion.
Non-Member Cost: $40
Intro to Genealogy:
Tips for getting started on your family history research
March 3, 2027 | 9 – 11 a.m. | Available in-person
A beginner-friendly introduction to genealogy tools and resources, including what we have available for use at the Bong Center archives. There will also be a section dedicated to identifying military medals and badges and understanding military paperwork.
Non-Member Cost: $20
Life Out of Balance:
Reconnecting with Nature, Self and Awareness
March 10, 17, 24, 31 and April 7, 2027 | 2 – 3:30 p.m. | Available in-person
Step away from the pace of everyday life and immerse yourself in a guided, six-week journey designed to restore balance, deepen awareness and reconnect you with the natural world. Through a blend of indoor reflection and outdoor experiences, this program invites participants to slow down, engage their senses and explore the profound relationship between nature, healing and personal transformation. Using meditation, breathwork and facilitated discussion, you’ll begin to notice shifts in consciousness, reconnect with the rhythms of nature and rediscover a sense of peace and vitality that is often lost in modern life. Together, we’ll explore how nature is not simply a place to visit, but a community we belong to—opening the door to lasting change in how we live, breathe and relate to the world around us.
Non-Member Cost: $75
Beginner’s Yoga
April 8, 15, 22, 29, 2027 | 9 – 10 a.m. | Available in-person
Beginner’s Yoga offers an opportunity to explore the basics of movement, breath and mindfulness in a supportive and welcoming environment. Each session introduces simple poses and techniques to build strength, flexibility and relaxation. No experience necessary and everyone is welcome.
Non-Member Cost: $40
Writing Your Humor Stories: Finding the Funny in the Fiasco
March 11, 18, 25 and April 1, 2027 | 4 – 5:30 p.m. CST | Available online
If life has ever thrown you a curveball, this class will help you turn it into a punchline. In this fun and interactive four-session workshop, you’ll learn how to take your real-life experiences and transform them into engaging, humorous stories. You’ll explore storytelling basics, discover powerful humor-writing tools and gain confidence in your unique voice. Whether your stories are laugh-out-loud funny or quietly meaningful, you’ll leave with practical skills—and a whole new way of looking at life’s little fiascos.
Non-Member Cost: $60
Caring for your family photographs and heirlooms:
Learn best practices for preserving your family history
April 27, 2027 | 10 – 11:30 a.m. | Available in-person
Learn how to put order to your unsorted, unlabeled accumulation of family photos, heirlooms and other “priceless” memorabilia. Storage methods and materials, record keeping, and environmental protections included.
Non-Member Cost: $15
Fishing Fundamentals for Beginners
May 4, 11, and 18 | 5 – 7 p.m. | Available in-person
Optional Add-On Day: June 6, 2027 | Available in-person
Explore the history of fishing in our region, along with the what, where, how and why of fishing. In this program, you’ll learn the basics of both spin fishing and fly fishing, including techniques, equipment, licenses and regulations. A three-part classroom experience builds practical skills and confidence for getting started in fishing.
An optional on-the-water session on Sunday, June 6 is also available, offering the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in a real fishing setting.
Non-Member Cost: $60 for 3 classroom workshops
Member and non-member cost for optional add-on day: $50
Creating Mosaics
May 20 & 27, 2027, 2 – 4 p.m. | Available in-person
Explore the timeless art of mosaic in this two-session, hands-on workshop. Participants will learn the fundamentals of mosaic design, including selecting materials, arranging patterns, and adhering pieces to create a cohesive composition. Over the course of two sessions, you’ll design and complete your own unique mosaic artwork while gaining confidence in technique and creative expression. No prior experience is necessary—just bring your creativity and enjoy the process of building something beautiful, one piece at a time.
Non-Member Cost: $50
Road Scholar
“Superior” learning awaits on this adventure through northern Wisconsin’s natural wonders – explore the ecology and human history of this fascinating Great Lake!
ROAD SCHOLAR – Program 24850: A Superior Exploration: Lake Superior’s History & Ecology
Four date ranges to choose from:
Jun 21 – Jun 26, 2026 | Jul 19 – Jul 24, 2026 | Aug 2 – Aug 7, 2026 | Aug 16 – Aug 21, 2026
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
Keep the Pace (I like to spend most of the day exploring. Whether walking historic neighborhoods at a moderate pace or out and about on a coach, I want my days full. Stairs don’t bother me, and I love to keep up with the group.)