U3L once again offers a wide range of topics with a high degree of flexibility: many courses can also be attended online.
The University of the Third Age (U3L) at Goethe University Frankfurt is launching its Summer Semester 2026, inviting participants to explore academic subjects and current societal issues from fresh perspectives. Around 3,000 students take part in U3L courses each semester, continuing their education beyond professional life, discovering new ideas, and engaging with others. The program is designed to be flexible: around half of all courses take place on campus – many of them at Goethe University’s Westend Campus – with the remaining lectures and seminars offered online. This provides a convenient option for those with longer travel times or limited mobility. Participants can study in the way that best fits their daily lives – whether in the lecture hall or from home.
The semester program also offers a broad thematic range. One highlight is the public, free lecture series “Entwicklungen” [Developments], which explores dynamics of change from a variety of academic perspectives. For the first time, most speakers will be U3L lecturers themselves, offering a non-binding insight into teaching and learning at U3L. The program is complemented by the free online lecture series “Planetare Grenzen” [Planetary Boundaries], which addresses the climate crisis. In addition, enrolled students can choose from a wide range of seminars and lectures, covering topics from the social sciences and humanities to natural sciences.
Prospective participants can explore the program without commitment. The first weeks of the semester serve as an orientation phase, during which participants are welcome to try out courses. Further information will be provided at the introductory session held on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m., in Lecture Hall HZ 4, Lecture Hall Center, Theodor W. Adorno Platz 5, on Westend Campus. The study program will be presented, and attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions about studying at U3L. Those who prefer to join via Zoom will find the access link on the homepage www.u3l.uni-frankfurt.de under the “News” section shortly before the event.
Further Information
All relevant information about the program is available on the U3L website and can also be requested via u3l@em.uni-frankfurt.de. The course catalogue for the 2026 Summer Semester is likewise available in electronic form on the U3L homepage.
Office Hours: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays 9:30 to 12:30 both on site and via telephone at +49 (0)69 798 28861. Mondays through Thursdays 9:30 to 12 and 13:30 to 15:00.
Contact: Sabine Rupp, Tel. +49 (0)69 798 28861, rupp@em.uni-frankfurt.de
