VALPARAISO | Courses in a wide variety of topics at Valparaiso University are open to senior citizens interested in exploring new or ongoing interests through the University's Senior Adult Growth through Education program.

During Valparaiso's spring semester beginning Jan. 6, senior citizens have the opportunity to audit undergraduate and graduate courses on a space-available basis at a special low tuition rate through SAGE, a program designed for persons ages 60 and older, or retired.

SAGE students are not required to complete readings, write papers, take examinations or participate in class discussions and they do not receive academic credit for classes they audit.

Classes are offered in more than 70 areas of study, including art, history, English, theology, economics, business and various foreign languages. A complete schedule of courses offered this spring is available online at valpo.edu/registrar.

"Many seniors are finding it personally enriching to continue to learn and stimulate their mind," said Dr. David Rowland, dean of graduate studies and continuing education. "The SAGE program provides an avenue for senior adults to perhaps return to a subject that first interested them decades ago in college, but one they were never able to pursue because of other demands."

Space-available seats are those remaining after degree-seeking students have been accommodated. Seniors may sign up for classes prior to the start of the semester, but their place in a particular class cannot be confirmed officially until the first day the class meets.

Costs are $60 per credit (with most courses being three credits) and an administrative fee of $80 per semester.

For more information about Valparaiso's SAGE program or a schedule of classes to be offered this fall, contact the Office of Graduate Studies and Continuing Education at (219) 464-5313, via e-mail to continuing.ed@valpo.edu or visit valpo.edu/continuinged/nondegree/sage.php.-

-For The Times