U3A Worldwide

What is U3A?

A University of the Third Age (U3A), such as Nunawading's, is a group of people who come together to share leisure, creative and educational activities. In this sense it is a university, a university that serves the interests of those in their Third Age.

Each U3A's philosophy is in keeping with the original and medieval understanding of "university" - an association of teachers and scholars united in their pursuit of knowledge. The Third Age, often known as the age of "active retirement" follows on from the First Age - childhood - and the Second Age - employment and parental responsibilities.

A World of U3A Organisations

Beginning in 1972, legislation in France required universities to provide more education for community groups. Toulouse University offered the first course under this legislation in 1973. Open to local retired people, the success of this course led to a rapid expansion of U3As in France followed by Belgium, Switzerland, Poland, Italy and Spain.

The concept crossed the Atlantic to Quebec and California.

The U3A model was changed soon after reaching Britain. In 1982 at Cambridge the formal linkage with Universities was removed. In this model, which is implemented in Australia, universities are not responsible for devising and delivering courses. The local U3A membership provides both teachers and students.

Australian U3As

In 1984 the first Australian U3A was established - U3A City of Melbourne. Currently there are over 60 U3As in Victoria and total U3A membership in Australia exceeds 40,000.

While all U3As share common objectives, the structure and interests of specific U3As is determined by the local organisation together with available resources. Courses and other activities for a specific U3A, such as Nunawading's, can be quite different to those offered by neighbouring U3As.

Virtual University of the Third Age

Griffith University has established a virtual U3A, called U3A Online . Via the Internet it offers short courses and other useful resources for those in their Third Age.

This virtual U3A is particularly useful for those who are isolated geographically, physically or socially. The courses are open to all older people, anywhere in the world.