Available for Registration

See Course Descriptions below. To choose and register for your classes, click "2026 Summer Birmingham In-Person Courses."

June 1, 2026 to July 31, 2026

This course invites participants to explore the personal patterns that shape motivation, meaning and decision-making. Through guided reflection and discussion, participants will gain insight into what drives them and how those patterns influence relationships, work and life transitions.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Discover the art of junk journaling as a creative and expressive form of storytelling. Using found and repurposed materials, participants will learn techniques for layering, composition and personal narrative.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Discover how to make the most of your OLLI at UA membership. Learn about programs, travel, volunteer opportunities and ways to stay connected. Perfect for both new and returning members.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

This four-week wellness series features expert speakers who address practical, timely health topics. Each session includes insights, discussion and audience Q&A.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

As Alabama attracts large?scale data center development, communities are asking questions about land use, water consumption, energy demand and long?term environmental stewardship. This lecture focuses on the proposed data centers in our area and explores the broader ecological footprint of the digital economy.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

This course examines the motivations, conflicts and personalities that shaped the American Revolution. Participants will explore whether the revolution was driven more by ideological pride or political and economic grievances.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Over the course of four classes, we will explore the life and times of the black playwright August Wilson in conjunction with three of his ten plays that were part of the Pittsburgh Cycle. Wilson's ten-play cycle presented Black life with a unique perspective on America in the 20th century. The three plays we will explore will be "Gem of the Ocean," "The Piano Lesson" and "Two Trains Running." 

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

This lecture series highlights Birmingham's vibrant arts community through conversations with cultural leaders and educators.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Learn the fundamentals of bridge through guided video instruction and structured practice using a workbook-based approach. Ideal for beginners or those returning to the game.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

If you enjoy reading and thoughtful discussion, join the OLLI Summer Book Club. Each of the four July sessions will cover a different book. You decide which session(s) to attend.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Journey through the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, exploring their history, cultural significance and enduring legacy. This course blends archaeology, history and storytelling.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

This hands-on course covers essential laptop skills for both PC and Mac users. Topics include file management, settings, basic troubleshooting and everyday productivity tools.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

? July 8 - Living Alone and Thriving in Your Later Years? July 29 - Growing Forward: Finding Meaning in Your Later Years

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Become an archaeologist, historian, and detective in this hands on, curiosity-driven session. Participants will examine 12 authentic Alabama artifacts and record their best guess as to what the object is, its age, and purpose. The instructor will share the artifact's true identity, historical context, and the story of where and how it was discovered. Expect lively discussion and "aha!" moments.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

This course explores why U.S. health care costs are nearly double those of other countries, even though 30 million people are uninsured. While private insurance companies' premiums, deductibles and copays rose 50% between 2008 and 2018, Medicare costs increased only 20%. We will learn how a national insurance plan, such as "Medicare for All," could improve access and affordability.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

On July 4, 2026, the United States will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence - the birth of our nation. The Daughters of the American Revolution are proud program partners in this national celebration. Join us as Malinda Williams, state regent of the Alabama DAR, and Tricia McBride, America 250 Chair for Alabama DAR, share the programs and activities planned across Alabama in honor of this historic milestone.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

This course reveals the diverse and extensive cultures that have occupied Alabama for over 13,500 years. Learn about its earliest occupants, vast trade networks and development of the incredible city of Moundville. Discover Alabama's past and the cultures that still affect us today.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

An exploration of the book "Twelve Steps to a Compassionate Life" by Karen Armstrong, a British author and theologian. Armstrong contends that compassion is a natural quality that humans share, and a principle that is honored in all of the world's religions. The Twelve Steps take us from self compassion through empathy all the way to learning how to love our enemies.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Join Darla Williamson to create a pamphlet-stitch journal that can be used for writing or drawing. Using some fun paper, learn a simple book-binding stitch to sew the pages in and then add decorative borders and embellishments.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

With a few tools and some patience, learn to identify whether coins in your collection are valuable or just pocket change. Discover how year, mint, condition and key dates affect value, and get tips to start your own coin collection.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Learn how to confidently use your smartphone. Topics include calls, texting, apps, photos, settings and security basics for both Android and iPhone users.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Learn the basics of writing poetry in a fun and collaborative environment. This course is designed for students at all levels of experience and ability. Poetry provides the opportunity to breathe life into the past, present, and future. With the proper literary tools in hand, the sky is the limit.

This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.