PSU has been welcoming older adults to audit classes on a tuition-free basis since the 1970s, decades before this privilege became a state mandate with the passage of Oregon House Bill 2011. This bill requires state institutions of higher education to waive tuition for any course audited by Oregon residents 65 years of age or older, if space is available and the instructor approves.
SALC’s operations are funded 100% through charitable donations, largely from grateful senior auditors.The Senior Adult Learning Center (SALC) offers access to most of PSU’s 5,000 classes to auditors. Whether auditors are interested in history, jazz, literature, geography, physical education classes, or any other subjects, there is something for everyone. After joining SALC, seniors can audit classes without paying tuition if the instructor agrees and space is available. Course-specific fees may apply; all additional fees are listed in the course catalog.
Senior auditors are an active part of the university and a community by their own right. Lifelong learning is about continual rebirth and renewal of the mind and spirit. Taking classes through the Senior Adult Learning Center contributes to auditors' lives in many meaningful ways.
SALC does not receive funding from the state of Oregon or Portland State University. Operations are supported entirely through charitable donations, allowing PSU to focus its resources on tuition-paying students. If you would like to make a donation, please visit the "Give to SALC" page.