National Osher Online

National Osher Online is a pilot project of the Osher National Resource Center (NRC). It kicked off in the fall of 2022, and UR's Osher Institute was one of the original pilot sites. We continue to offer these classes each semester.

These national classes feature some of the best, most experienced instructors across the Osher network. The hope is that the pilot will be eventually scaled nationwide and offered to the entire Osher network.

Osher Online courses will not replace any existing, local programming but instead offer a unique, online learning modality with a variety of courses to supplement existing offerings by individual institutes. This pilot program will provide members across the country with a means to connect with each other and learn together by participating in this new initiative, while maintaining membership at their local institute.

We are grateful to the Bernard Osher Foundation, Northwestern University, and the Osher NRC for their support and hard work in making this happen.

Courses

National Osher Online - 100 Years of Magic: The Disney Legacy and Influence

How did Walt Disney's life and vision shape the creation of an entertainment empire? How did early challenges influence the company's identity and creative output? And how did Disney grow into a global powerhouse? This course explores these questions and more as we delve into the 100-year history of the Walt Disney Company, tracing its evolution from humble beginnings to a global entertainment giant.

Thursdays; July 10, 17, 24, 31, Aug 7, 14 , Synchronous Online

National Osher Online - Architectural Oddities: An Off-the-Beaten Path Look at Unconventional Architecture

Architectural history follows a canon of both traditional and eclectic styles from ancient to contemporary times. Let's explore the myriad structures set against the backdrop of the societies in which they existed, the construction methods used, the patrons for whom these structures were constructed, and the notions of the builders and architects who created them.

Thursdays; July 10, 17, 24, 31, Aug 7, 14 , Synchronous Online

National Osher Online - Behind Those Baby Blues: The Films of Paul Newman

Paul Newman, the embodiment of charisma, captivated movie audiences with his iconic baby-blue eyes, striking features, and powerful screen presence. Known for his multiple Academy Award-nominated performances, Newman ultimately won an Oscar for 'The Color of Money,' the sequel to 'The Hustler.' This course will trace the timeline of Newman's remarkable career.

Tuesdays; July 8, 15, 22, 29, Aug 5, 12 , Synchronous Online

National Osher Online - Demystifying Energy Security

Energy is essential for both national and economic security, underpinning all aspects of life. Yet discussions of energy security often reduce complex issues to simplistic narratives like 'Green is Good' or 'Oil is Evil,' which provide little actionable insight. Let's engage in a comprehensive examination of energy's role in human development.

Wednesdays; July 9, 16, 23, 30, Aug 6, 13 , Synchronous Online

National Osher Online - Enjoying the Past and Present New York City: A History of Recreation in the Big Apple

This course will explore the history of Manhattan, emphasizing the unique traits that drew into its harbor millions of immigrants and millions more tourists seeking to enjoy its many resources, rich culture, and complex history. Together, we will trace the history of New York City's parks, city shopping, entertainment venues, museums, and concerts. We will also discuss the social and arts movements that grew out of the city.

Wednesdays; July 9, 16, 23, 30, Aug 6, 13 , Synchronous Online

National Osher Online - History of Beer

Historians, beer enthusiasts, and curious minds alike will enjoy this exploration of the history of brewing. We will begin in the distant past with the invention of beer around 4000 BCE. Then we will journey through time to the modern rise of craft brewing.

Tuesdays; July 8, 15, 22, 29, Aug 5, 12 , Synchronous Online

National Osher Online - Public Health Across the Lifespan

Join us for a comprehensive overview of key public health topics across the human lifespan, from prenatal health to aging care. Through readings and case studies, we will examine major health challenges, interventions, and policies that impact individuals at each life stage.

Wednesdays; July 9, 16, 23, 30, Aug 6, 13 , Synchronous Online

National Osher Online - Stories of Adventure: The Norse Sagas

Are you interested in stories rich with murder, intrigue, and sharp wit? We will explore the Norse sagas, which are medieval tales rooted in Old Norse mythology, written in Iceland centuries after the Viking era. These stories range from realistic travel chronicles to epic sword-and-sorcery adventures, and they offer a fascinating glimpse into 'Dark Age' swashbuckling. In this course we will also discuss how these stories continue to profoundly influence modern culture.

Wednesdays, July 16, 23, 30, Aug 6, 13, 20, Synchronous Online

National Osher Online - The Economics of Public Policy Issues

Economics plays a central role in shaping every aspect of society. This course examines a series of prominent policy issues with economics at their core. We will explore the origins of these issues, the underlying data and evidence, and the policy tools available to address them.

Tuesdays; July 8, 15, 22, 29, Aug 5, 12, Synchronous Online

National Osher Online - The Rehnquist Court, 1986-2005: Moves Toward Small Federal Government

Chief Justice William Rehnquist led the US Supreme Court for nearly 19 years (1986-2005), overseeing cases on privacy, civil rights, the environment, the First Amendment, and states' rights. Under his leadership, the Court actively struck down federal statutes and precedent, often with conservative outcomes. However, as its composition shifted, some conservative rulings diminished.

July 14, 21, 28, Aug 4, 11, 18, Synchronous Online