Studying from the age of 50: openness to new horizons at the University of Magdeburg!
In the summer semester of 2025, the University of Magdeburg will start the “Studying from 50” program with an opening event on March 19th.

Studying from the age of 50: openness to new horizons at the University of Magdeburg!
The summer semester of 2025 starts at the Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg the innovative study program “Studying from the age of 50”. The opening event will take place on March 19, 2025 from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The focus is on a lecture by Prof. Dr. Marcel Lichters, who deals with the fascinating topic of “manipulation of purchasing decisions”. The event will be held in Lecture Hall 6 of Building 44 and registration is not required.
As part of this initiative, participants aged 50 and over can take part in over 150 lectures and seminars and learn about current research results. The aim is to encourage citizens of this age group to address scientific issues and deepen their specialist knowledge. The offer has existed for over 30 years and regularly has over 400 participants per semester.
Comprehensive program and registration options
The registration period for the lecture period will take place from March 20th to 30th, 2025, and the lecture period itself begins on April 7th, 2025. One day after the opening event, from March 20th, a printed program booklet will be available in Building 40 of the Faculty of Human Sciences and in Building 44. Additionally, the full program will be available online from March 10, 2025.
The diverse program includes not only classic lectures, but also practical offerings such as a writing workshop and a course on digital photography. These events aim to help increase the intellectual activity and mobility of the older generation, which is particularly important given evidence of the benefits of lifelong learning. Through such educational opportunities, seniors can expand their skills and make social contacts, which at the same time leads to an improvement in their self-esteem.
The value of lifelong learning
Lifelong learning is becoming increasingly important for seniors. Studies show that mental activities can reduce the risk of dementia. Especially in the older population, special programs can help promote individual interests and curiosity. Most seniors often have more free time and a strong desire to learn, which gives them the opportunity to acquire new knowledge in a wide variety of areas.
Another advantage of these programs is the social component, which helps reduce loneliness. How net-50plus notes, modern technologies enable educational institutions and seniors to use digital resources to further their education. Online platforms like Coursera and Udemy offer targeted courses, while local educational institutions provide additional workshops and lectures for older adults.
The future of the education market for seniors will be characterized by increasing availability of digital technologies. Educational institutions are required to further improve the quality and accessibility of their offerings, and innovative teaching methods such as interactive workshops and mentoring programs will become increasingly important. Despite all the challenges that learning brings with it in old age, promoting intellectual activity and social integration remains a central goal.
Further information about the “Studying from the age of 50” program is available at ovgu.de to find.