The Ohio State University is pleased to announce a series of upcoming enhancements to Program 60 (P60), a signature initiative that invites older adults to audit courses alongside degree-seeking students—enriching classrooms with their experience and perspectives. Effective autumn semester 2025, P60 management will transition from Professional and Continuing Education to the College of Arts and Sciences, allowing for closer coordination for greater enrollment opportunities for P60 participants. While the College of Arts and Sciences will take on administrative leadership of the program on behalf of Ohio State, P60 participants will continue to benefit from enrollment opportunities supported by academic units across the university.

“Program 60 exemplifies the university’s commitment to lifelong learning and community connection,” said Vice Provost and Dean for Online Learning Jason Lemon. “As the program continues to grow, we’re making thoughtful changes to simplify the experience, improve access for participants and ensure a strong foundation for its continued success.”

Concurrently, the university will implement improvements aimed at streamlining the enrollment process and providing a more consistent and welcoming experience for all participants. P60 has long welcomed older adults into Ohio State classrooms, where they audit courses alongside degree-seeking students—contributing valuable perspectives and enriching the academic environment. 

College of Arts and Sciences Dean David Horn expressed enthusiasm about the College of Arts and Sciences assuming P60 leadership, calling it a meaningful opportunity for faculty, staff and students. “This is wonderful news for our college community,” he said. “Program 60 strengthens the college’s mission of serving the people of Ohio and fosters intergenerational learning. Program 60 students bring a wealth of experience and insight to our classrooms.”

Each year, hundreds of P60 participants from across Ohio engage meaningfully with faculty, staff and students, exemplifying the university’s commitment to lifelong learning and community connection. As the program continues to grow, the university is streamlining the P60 experience to better serve participants and support academic units.

Key changes include:

• New Enrollment Period: Starting autumn 2025, the P60 enrollment window will shift to the second week of each semester, rather than prior to the start of classes. This common timing is intended to simplify the registration process for participants and academic units alike.
• Consistent Policies Across Campuses: All Ohio State campuses will adopt shared policies regarding attendance, course eligibility, and repeat enrollments—ensuring a clear and equitable experience for all participants, regardless of location.
• Course Selection Support: The university will also develop new ways to help P60 participants connect with courses aligned with their interests, providing more targeted guidance and support during registration.

With these changes, Ohio State is reaffirming its commitment to educational access at every stage of life, ensuring that P60 remains a dynamic and inclusive pathway for older adults to engage in meaningful learning.

For more information, please contact program60@osu.edu.