This page provides current announcements, semester updates, catalog releases, reminders, and important notices for all ILR students.
Please check this page regularly during the semester, especially during the first two weeks when classroom locations or schedules may change.
Updates are posted throughout the year to help students stay informed and prepared.
Fall 2026 Program Announcements
Fall 2026 Catalog Published
Wednesday, August 12, 2026
Fall 2026 Registration Opens
Wednesday, September 9, 2026
Fall 2026 Semester Dates
Monday, October 3 through Friday, December 18, 2026
Fall 2026 Course Load
Students may take:
- Four Primary Courses
- Three Bonus Courses
Holiday Closures for Fall 2026
No classes will be held on:
- Day Before Thanksgiving: November 25
- Thanksgiving: November 26
- Day After Thanksgiving: November 27
ILR remains open Columbus Day (October 12th) and Veterans Day (November 11th)
Course Updates and Catalog Corrections
Attention Students: Please review the following changes to the current semester schedule. These updates supersede the information printed in the physical catalog.
Important Note on Holiday Closures
Standard breaks are noted in the catalog for some courses but not all.
- If your course lists a “Closed” date: No class will be held.
- If no “Closed” date is listed: The course is pre-approved to meet as scheduled.
- Verification: Please confirm the specific holiday schedule with your instructor during the first week of class.
Highlights from Recent Semesters
The Institute for Learning in Retirement (ILR) offered more than 40 primary courses and a variety of bonus programs during the Spring 2026 semester, providing members with opportunities to explore new interests, deepen existing knowledge, and connect with fellow lifelong learners. Course topics included:
- American History and the American Revolution
- World War II History
- Current Events and Public Affairs
- Memoir Writing and Creative Expression
- Digital Photography
- Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies
- Financial Wellness and Retirement Planning
- Health, Wellness, and Mindfulness
- Neurology and Brain Health
- Korean Language and Culture
- Music, Choir, and Performing Arts
- Space Exploration and Aviation
- Garden Design, Art, and Cultural Studies
- Sports History and Popular Culture
- Coffee, Society, and Global History
New courses introduced during the semester included AI in the Real World, The Great Depression, Garden Design with an Eye on History and Art, Mahjong, Living Your Best Life, Neurology 202, Baseball Oddities and Ironies, and The Truth of How Money Works, among many others.
The semester also featured special bonus programs on topics such as robotics, generative artificial intelligence, aging in place, volunteer communications, financial markets, safe driving, and literary discussions.
These offerings reflect the depth, diversity, and intellectual curiosity that define the ILR community. The Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 catalogs will continue to build on this successful model by expanding course variety, welcoming new instructors, and introducing additional topics inspired by member interests and emerging trends.
Classroom Location Updates
During the semester, classroom changes may occur due to campus scheduling needs.
How You Will Be Notified
- All classroom changes are emailed to enrolled students.
- Updated classroom lists are posted at the Continuing Education and Workforce Development front desk (TEC-115).
- Updates are also posted on this News and Program Updates page.
Students are encouraged to check their email frequently, especially during the first two weeks of the semester.
Online Course Information
Students enrolled in online ILR courses will receive:
- A virtual meeting link
- Instructions for accessing the online classroom
- Any required materials or attachments
These will be sent approximately one week before classes begin.
If you do not receive the link within three days of the start date, please contact the ILR office.
Weather-Related Closures
If Bergen Community College closes due to inclement weather:
- All ILR classes scheduled for that day will be canceled
- ILR staff will provide make-up dates when possible
- Updates will be posted on this page and sent by email
Students may also check the Bergen Community College homepage for campus-wide announcements.
Movement Classes and Field Trip Requirements
Students enrolled in movement classes (such as yoga, tai chi, light exercise, or dance) or off-campus field trip courses must complete a Bergen Community College Accident Waiver.
Waivers may be completed:
- In class
- At the ILR office
- Prior to the class using a printed form
Students will not be permitted to participate until the waiver is submitted.
How to Stay Informed
To ensure you receive all updates:
- Check your email regularly
- Add “[email protected]” to your email contacts
- Visit this News and Program Updates page often
- Refer to the ILR website prior to the start of the semester
- Call the ILR office with questions
Contact the ILR
Telephone: (201) 447-7156
Email: [email protected]
Technology Building, TEC-115
Bergen Community College
400 Paramus Road
Paramus, New Jersey 07652
