General Information

Please read the following class information carefully:

Before each class begins, all students will receive supply lists and handouts from their instructors, a detailed class schedule, and a list of any special equipment needed for the class. The supply list may include a materials fee for specific items required for the class. Vesterheim can provide rosemalers with paints, brush cleaner, and painting medium for a palette fee. These supplies must be ordered in advance. Students might want to bring additional equipment for their own personal needs, such as a swinging arm lamp for extra lighting. Class instruction is typically held throughout the mornings and afternoons, unless otherwise noted in the class description. Most classes allow for extra work time in the evenings.

All classes, except mini-classes and special programs, require a $50 deposit to register. Full tuition is due 30 days prior to the class starting date. A minimum number of registered students is required for a class to be held. We must meet our minimum number 30 days before class, or the class will be cancelled. All Vesterheim classes are limited in size to assure a quality learning experience.

If Vesterheim cancels a class due to insufficient registration, a full refund will be made, or students may transfer funds to another class offered the same year. If a student wishes to cancel enrollment, a 30-day notice in writing (e-mail is acceptable) is required for a full refund, less a $25 handling fee. Students withdrawing 29 days or less prior to the start date of a class will receive no refund.

Vesterheim does not allow videotaping during classes, or auditing a class. Vesterheim is not responsible for the security of property belonging to students and instructors. Smoking is not permitted inside any building at Vesterheim Museum. Alcohol is not permitted in classrooms and workshops. The use of illegal drugs is prohibited.

NEW — Age policy:

All classes at Vesterheim are open to adults 18 years and older. Vesterheim strongly believes in the importance of keeping our Scandinavian traditions alive by passing them down to our children. We are a gathering place where folks of all ages can come and share stories and experiences tied to their heritage. Vesterheim also values the importance of nurturing inter-generational learning. Therefore, some of our courses are open to students under the age of 18, provided they are accompanied by a fully enrolled adult in the same class. Youth tuition will be discounted 25% of the full tuition price. Minimum age requirements are determined by the individual instructors and are included in the course descriptions. Vesterheim also offers a 25% discount of full tuition for fulll-time Luther College students—just bring your Luther ID card.

NEW - Local Resident Discounts:

Vesterheim is offering a 50% discount of full class tuition on a space-available, stand-by basis to any legal year-round resident of the Decorah area. Students need to register with a $50 deposit and they will be notified about availability of an opening in the class one week before the starting date of the class. The $50 will be refunded if space does not become available. Discounts do not include materials fee. If local area residents want a guaranteed place in a class they must pay regular class tuition. Proof of legal residency (Iowa ID or Iowa driver’s license) is required.

Housing and Food

Students must make their own housing and dining arrangements.

For information about Decorah's housing and food options check with the Decorah Area Chamber.

If you have trouble finding housing, please call Vesterheim at (563) 382-9681 for assistance. There may be other options for accommodations in the area, including private housing. A variety of moderately priced restaurants are within walking distance. The Westby-Torgerson Education Center has a student lounge located on the third floor. Facilities include a refrigerator, microwave, stove, sink, coffee maker, pop machine, and tables and chairs.