Very few over-60s are pursuing higher education, but many of those who are have decided to study creative subjects
By Jaimee Taylor
Only 0.4% of UK university students are aged 60 and older, according to data obtained by Boomer. But it would seem that those who are studying at this age are most interested in creative fields such as art, drama and dance.
Statistics show the universities with the highest proportion of students aged 60 and older are smaller institutions with a focus on specialised creative areas. Guildhall School of Music and Dance, and Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance had an average of 1.4% of students older than 60, more than three times the UK average.
The most popular subject area for those over 60 is art and design with 16.3% of students at this age studying within this field.
Ann Dyer, 76, decided to study BA history at the University of Brighton to fulfil a life-long ambition to get a degree. But she admits she was almost tempted to pursue a more creative subject.
“I knew I wasn’t necessarily going to use my degree for a career,” she says. “It mainly came down to what I knew I would enjoy the most. I’ve always been interested in history but I’d be lying if I said I didn't look at the arty subjects.”
Research by the National Institute on Aging suggests the arts can improve the health and well-being of older adults.
Ann believes this is a big reason why art-related subjects are popular. “When you’ve spent your life in a stressful career like I have it’s very tempting,” says ex-finance manager Ann. “Just painting or drawing seems like a great way to spend your retirement.”
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