PITT'S INFORMAL PROGRAM OFFERS CHANCE TO REDISCOVER THE JOY OF LEARNING

PITTSBURGH, Sept. 8 -- Young people aren't the only students heading back to the classroom. Hundreds of Pittsburgh area adults are registering for fun and informative non-credit classes offered through Pitt's Informal Program (PIP).

The classes, ranging from "Conversational French" and "Hollywood Cinema" to "Stargazing" and "Indian Vegetarian Cooking," offer the perfect opportunity to pursue an interest in a relaxed atmosphere. Some courses explore contemporary issues, such as "The Invisible Government: Behind the Scenes in the Corridors of Power," a four-part lecture series that exposes the inner workings of our political institutions, as told by guest speakers who have been a part of the "invisible government" themselves.

Other classes offer a fascinating glimpse of "The Canals of Pittsburgh" or "The Glorious History of American Movie Theaters." "The Arts and Crafts Movement: A Tour of Sites in Pittsburgh" includes visits to buildings and neighborhoods that exhibit characteristics of that architectural style.

Some classes are geared toward professional development, such as "How to Create A Business Plan" or "The Art of the Job Search." Others focus on financial planning, fitness and health, art, music, and astronomy.

Most PIP classes are held on the Oakland campus, on weekends or in the evening, to accommodate working adults. Fees range from $18 to $79. For more information, or to register for a class, call PIP at (412) 648-2560.