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Harvard Institute for Learning in Retirement.


A program for retired professionals.

two members of HILR share conversation
Interior of HILR learning space

HILR is a lifelong learning program for seniors in the Greater Boston area.

Key features of our program:

  • In-person, with courses meeting on our Cambridge campus
  • 100% participant-developed and led curriculum in the liberal arts and sciences
  • Community membership model
  • Two admission cycles per year for applicants committed to ongoing program engagement
  • No prior Harvard affiliation required

Contribute to a Vibrant Intellectual Community

Courses at the Harvard Institute for Learning in Retirement (HILR) are produced by and exclusively for program participants, who find that intellectual stimulation and community are core benefits of retirement learning. The varied professional and personal backgrounds of HILR’s lifelong learners, as well as their shared commitment to the pursuit of knowledge, make course leadership especially rewarding and further enhance classroom discussions.

Speaker events featuring scholars and public intellectuals along with participant-led extracurricular activities provide further opportunities for community and learning and engaging with peers.

Learn More About Us

  • 500

    Community Members

  • 120+

    Courses Annually

  • Semesters

    Fall & Spring

front door of 34 Concord Avenue, Cambridge, Mass. 02138

Please note, HILR does not offer a virtual program for retirement learning, nor does it offer enrollment by the course or by the semester. Lifelong learners apply to HILR for ongoing engagement in its academic community.

Linda Sultan
This endeavor turned out to be more vast and far more rewarding than I ever expected. One of the best experiences of my life. Rejuvenating!
Linda Sultan