Scholars Active in Learning

SAIL students visit the Kimbell Museum for an exhibit led by iCollin faculty member Dr. Clair Robertson

REGISTRATION OPENS JANUARY 12, 2026

Spring 2026 class schedule comes out December 15, and registration begins January 12, 2026. Classes begin January 26, 2026. Need assistance getting registered? Contact the SAIL office at 972.985.3788 or email sail@collin.edu.

On This Page: Program Details, Course Topics, Frequently Asked Questions, Give to SAIL, SAIL Office

Over 29 Years of Exceptional Lifelong Learning

Operating since 1996, Scholars Active in Learning (SAIL) is a community of lifelong learners ages 55 and older who participate in organized study, discussion, and social events through Collin College.

Program Details

Educational opportunities made specifically for seniors (ages 55 or older) in a relaxed, conversational environment
Classes available in the fall, spring, or summer terms plus social activities throughout the year
Non-credit classes - no tests, grades, or papers to write
No degree required
Affordable prices and free parking
Conveniently scheduled classes
SAIL without borders - open to both residents and non-residents of Collin County

Course Topics

Take classes across a variety of topics in-person or online. Course availability varies by semester.

SAIL classroom with students sitting at two rows of desks

Art, Literature, Music, and Writing

Explore the richness of the arts — from mastering watercolor techniques and examining masterpieces by Caillebotte and O’Keeffe to delving into classic short stories, uncovering the stories behind classical music, celebrating musicals, or crafting your own cozy mystery. These courses spark creativity, inspire conversation, and bring lifelong learning to life.

History, Math, Science, and Technology

Learn about fascinating stories from America’s past, Roman innovations, and the Civil Rights era, or dive into modern topics like online security, streaming alternatives, and the science of the human cell. Whether you’re uncovering the past or mastering today’s tools, these courses are designed to spark curiosity and keep learning exciting.

Five older adults sit around a small round table in a bright office, engaged in discussion. One woman stands, handing out papers, while others listen and smile with notebooks and tablets open.

Health, Lifestyle, and Travel

Enhance your life through engaging courses on family history research, Spanish language and culture, estate planning, and decluttering for peace of mind. For those with wanderlust, enjoy a scenic journey across Canada’s cities, coasts, and landmarks. These classes offer practical skills, personal enrichment, and inspiring adventures for lifelong learners.

Retired Secret Service agent Mike Howard is photographed in his home in front of framed Christmas cards he received from President Lyndon Baines Johnson (LBJ). The photograph he is holding was taken on the day of President John Fitzgerald Kennedy’s (JFK) assassination and features Howard in the forefront with the president and vice president in the center of the image. Howard teaches Seniors Active In Learning (SAIL) classes at Collin College.

Discussions and Guest Speakers

SAIL members can enjoy discussion-based courses like Behind the News, The Evolving Geo-Politics of the Middle East, and Third Parties in American Politics, alongside engaging guest speakers from healthcare, history, music, and science fields. From timely world events to cultural insights and geological wonders, every session brings fresh perspectives and meaningful conversation.

Program Costs

$115

per semester (Fall or Spring) for up to eight in-person courses and unlimited online courses

$25

Per Summer semester for unlimited courses.

Free

Guest Lectures as part of your membership.

Our Mission

SAIL participants are here for the sheer joy of learning something new and becoming more informed. The SAIL community includes talented instructors, college professors, and business leaders with categorical expertise in a myriad of subject areas. Learn from each other, hear and consider opposing ideas, integrate the expertise of the instructor, and ultimately synthesize new knowledge, opinions, and views.

Ready to set SAIL?

You are applauded for providing the SAIL members additional resources for learning and engagement. I am totally in love with SAIL!

Previous SAIL Participant

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are 55 years old or older and enjoy learning and meeting new people, you qualify!

History, literature, art appreciation, current events, and lifestyle interests are just a sampling of the classes offered in SAIL. The SAIL instructor community includes talented presenters, college professors, and business leaders with categorical expertise.

No degree is required. The only requirement is a passion for learning and enrichment!

SAIL classes are conveniently held Monday-Friday between 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Collin College parking is free!

Classes are a mix of on-campus and online as indicated in the SAIL schedule. Campus class locations vary by semester.

Easy! Contact the SAIL office at 972.985.3788 or email sail@collin.edu and we can add any additional courses if they are available. If the class is closed, we can add you to the waitlist. You will be contacted by phone or email when space becomes available.

Sometimes classes are changed or canceled. If you have registered for a class that was changed or canceled, we will email you as we can, so please check your email! You may attend another course of your choice, based on seat availability. Contact the SAIL office with any questions.

If you have registered for an online class, the link will be emailed to you two days before the class begins. The link will be a recurring link, so if the class has multiple sessions, save the link for the next class!

Definitely! You can bring one guest per semester to join you in a class if an extra seat is available. Please contact the SAIL office at 972.985.3788 prior to bringing your guest to class to verify seat availability.

Yes! We rely on member participation to keep the “sails” running smoothly. Email the SAIL office at sail@collin.edu or call us at 972.985.3789. We have various positions to fit your style and know your time is valuable. We are happy with any time offered.

Sorry, there are no refunds for SAIL memberships after the semester begins.

Give to SAIL

SAIL is more than an educational program — it’s a community of like-minded individuals improving themselves and making connections! You can get involved and help support the SAIL program by volunteering. Our volunteers can choose from a variety of opportunities, such as:

Helping at the SAIL office (Courtyard Center location)
Classroom assistance
Special on-campus opportunities and events

Contact SAIL

Your hobby, expertise, or area of personal interest could become a great SAIL course! No previous teaching experience is required — just a strong desire to share with your peers. Courses can cover a variety of subjects, such as:

Ready to propose your own course?

Contact SAIL

Your generous donation to SAIL helps with future programming, memberships, and scholarships! Thank you!

Donate Now

Pay it forward by gifting a SAIL membership to a friend or family member. A SAIL Gift Membership offers the joy of discovery, friendship, and enrichment. Members enjoy organized study groups, engaging discussions, and lively social events. Contact us to learn more.

Contact SAIL