MSU Lifelong Learning Institute

The desire to learn never stops! The MSU Lifelong Learning Institute offers workshops for all ages, fostering a love of learning. The program provides opportunities to develop new skills, engage in creative activities, and meet like-minded learners.

Open Studio Options
February 4 - April 15 | 7-9 PM
Tuesdays/Thursdays
Location: Pioneer Hall Ceramics Studio
$85/month | 4 Sessions
$250 | 12 Sessions
Age: 16+ | Level: Advanced
Instructors: Blaire Engel and/or Linda Olson
Join the MSU clay community and experience the pleasure of creating with your hands! Open studio hours are for individuals who already have some experience in clay and can work without direction or help. If you have never worked in clay but would like to learn, please consider signing up for one of our beginner-level classes!
Children ages 14+ may register for Open Studio Monthly with a concurrently registered and attending parent/guardian only.
Continuing Throwing
February 28, March 7 & 14 | 6-8 PM
Location: Pioneer Hall Ceramics Studio
Cost: $50/person | Age: 16+ | Level: Beginner
Instructors: Blaire Engel and Linda Olson
This class is an independent studio class in which students continue to develop their skills, knowledge and proficiency working in clay. Students will work at their own speed on projects of their choice with supervision and consultation available. This class is open to experienced ceramics students with previous clay experience.

Hand Built Cup or Mug
March 11 & 18 | 6-8 PM
Location: Pioneer Hall Ceramics Studio
Cost: $50/person | Age: 16+| Level: Beginner
Instructors: Blaire Engel and Linda Olson
Hand build your own cup or mug. Enjoy the relaxing and pleasant process of hand building in clay and treat yourself to a unique handmade object.

Family Tile Making Class
April 4 & 11 | 6-8 PM
Location: Pioneer Hall Ceramics Studio
Cost: $50/person
Age: 16+, or 6+ with parent/guardian
Level: Beginner
Instructors: Blaire Engel and Linda Olson
Design your very own ceramic tile in this family friendly class! We will provide a tile template, but then it is your turn to get creative with shaping, carving, drawing coloring and more. Wall hangings, trivets, coasters and more. Get creative with your family in this playful class. Whether you are looking to experience clay for the first time, or seeking a fun-filled creative class, this class offers hands-on experience for a variety of student types, abilities and interests. Completed works completed in the class may be picked up two weeks after the class.
Please note that this is a family class, not a youth class.

Bead Bracelet Bonanza
April 11 | 6-8 PM
Location: Hartnett Hall, 2nd Floor
Cost: $20/person | Capacity: 20
Instructor: Maleeha Latif
Discover your inner artist with our Bead Bracelet making workshop, led by the talented Maleeha Latif! In this hands-on class, you'll learn how to design and create beautiful bead bracelets, perfect for adding a personal touch to your jewelry collection or gifting to loved ones. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, Maleeha will guide you through the process with her expert tips and creative flair. Join us for a fun and relaxing evening of crafting and creativity!

DIY T-Shirt Night
April 29 | 6-9 PM
Location: Hartnett Hall 236, 2nd Floor
Cost: $20/person | Capacity: 30
Instructor: Bill Harbort and Micah Bloom
Unleash your creativity at our DIY T-Shirt Night, guided by talented MSU Art Faculty members Bill Harbort and Micah Bloom. Get hands-on experience creating your own unique T-shirt masterpiece. This event is perfect for all skill levels, whether you're an aspiring artist or just looking for a fun night out. The instructors will prepare 6-8 custom designs and you will be able to print on up to 10 items that you bring like a t-shirt, hoodie, tote bag, apron, etc. Come join us and make some awesome custom apparel!

Race to the Top
March 14, 21, 28 & April 4, 11 | 10-11 AM
Location: Minot State Wellness Center
Cost: $50/person | Capacity: 8
Instructor: Ben Bagwell
Gear up for an exciting adventure with our "Race to the Top" rock climbing course, led by the skilled Ben Bagwell! Over five weeks, you'll challenge yourself and build confidence as you learn essential climbing techniques and safety practices. Perfect for climbers looking to improve their skills and take on new heights, this course promises both fun and an incredible sense of achievement. Join us and conquer the climb, one step at a time!

Building Resilience
One Thought at a Time
March 27 | 9-10 AM
Location: Swain Hall 112
Cost: $20/person | Capacity: 40
Instructor: Dr. Terry Eckmann
Explore the physiology and power of thoughts-negative and positive. Understand common characteristics of a resilient person and identify strategies to develop and strengthen neuropathways of resilience. Put these muscles to work one thought at a time to overcome challenges, face change, and live life to the fullest.
- Explore the physiology of thoughts.
- Understand and identify characteristics of resilience.
- Take home strategies to build resilience.
- Explore key thoughts to live with grit and grace.

Swing Dancing
April 4 | 9-10 AM
Location: Pedagogy Lab, Swain Hall - 2nd Floor
Cost: $20/person | Capacity: 40
Instructor: Dr. Terry Eckmann and Jacob Thrailkill
Get ready to have a blast at our Swing Dancing class! You'll have the opportunity to learn basic swing step, around the world, underarm turns, the slide, and the pretzel from the incredible duo of Dr. Terry Eckmann and Jacob Thrailkill. Whether you're a beginner or have some dance experience, this class promises to be fun, energetic, and full of lively rhythms.

Pickleball 101
April 7, 9, 14, 16, 21 | 10 AM-12 PM
Location: Minot State Wellness Center
Cost: $50/person | Capacity: 10
Instructor: Kevin Yale
Dive into the basics of pickleball with our Pickleball 101 class, led by local expert Kevin Yale! This beginner-friendly class will introduce you to the fundamentals of this exciting sport in a fun and supportive atmosphere. Learn how to serve, volley, and score, and get tips on improving your game. No experience or supplies are needed—just bring your enthusiasm and get ready to have a great time on the court!

Intermediate Pickleball
April 23, 28, 30 & May 5, 7 | 10 AM-12 PM
Location: Minot State Wellness Center
Cost: $50/person | Capacity: 10
Instructor: Kevin Yale
Take your game to the next level with our Intermediate Pickleball class, led by local expert Kevin Yale! Designed for players who already have a basic understanding of the game, this class will help you refine your skills and strategies. Learn advanced techniques, improve your footwork, and enhance your overall gameplay in a fun and dynamic environment. Join us and elevate your pickleball performance!