History
WOU, founded in 1856, is the oldest institution in the Oregon University system and has continued to adapt and transform itself to respond to the needs of society and our changing world. From its origins as a normal school, WOU grew to become a nationally recognized leader in teacher preparation.
Education
WOU offers several bachelor’s (four-year) degrees – bachelor of science, bachelor of arts, bachelor of music and bachelor of fine arts – as well as certificates, advanced baccalaureates, master’s degrees and pre-professional tracks.
Research
The Research Institute (TRI) at Western Oregon University improves the quality of life for individuals by facilitating positive change in education, health, and human services systems.
Career
The Service Learning and Career Development Center was officially established in 2004. It had previously been the Career Development Office before expanding to include Experiential Learning services and the Community Internship Program. Together, we hope to provide access to transformative experiences, education, and counseling to the Western Oregon University community, and are here to help you achieve your goal of being career ready!
Distance Learning Courses
Education & Training (3)
- M.Sc. Education
- M.Ed. Special Education
- M.A.T. Teaching
Law (2)
- M.A. Criminal Justice
- M.Sc. Justice Studies
Business & Management (1)
- Master Organizational Leadership
Social Sciences (1)
Student services
The office of Multicultural Student Services & Programs is committed to the recruitment, retention and graduation of historically underrepresented & underserved populations by providing educational opportunities and outstanding programming for ethnically and culturally diverse students.
- Personal Guidance, Advising, and Advocacy
- Academic Advising and support to Develop an Academic Progress Plan
- Mentoring
- Referrals to University and Community Resources
- Cultural/Social Activities & Events
- Student Recognition and Graduation Celebrations
- Facilitate the successful transition of 1st year students
Housing services
Heritage Hall and Landers Halls feature community living options which include double rooms, shared community bathrooms, study rooms and public areas for group activities.
In addition, this year – but only as space allows, and demand requires, the suite style rooms of Barnum Hall will complement the green spaces of our newest residence hall, Ackerman Hall to accommodate First-Year students.
The Arbor Park Apartments and round out the list of halls that are generally used to accommodate upper-division residents. The upper-division halls are coeducational, they house 70 to 300 residents, and are managed by a full-time professional Resident Director or Area Director, and a staff of Resident Assistants.
Library services
Hamersly Library supports Western Oregon University’s dedication to student success and enhances its commitment to discovery, creativity, critical thinking, and diversity by providing and encouraging the use of quality information, media resources, and services.
ICT services
University Computing Services supports the WOU mission through collaborative implementation of technology for students, faculty, staff, and the community. UCS commits to keep campus technology current and accessible.
Medical services
The mission of the Western Oregon University Student Health & Counseling Center is to facilitate the health and well-being of Western Oregon University students by providing quality and affordable outpatient medical and mental health care, and health promotion services.
Campus life
Located in Monmouth, the heart of Oregon’s lush Willamette Valley, WOU is about 20 minutes from Salem, the state’s capitol and about 75 minutes from Portland, the state’s cultural hub.
Sports facilities
The Intramural (IM) Sports program offers opportunities for the Western Oregon University community to participate in a variety of team and individual sport leagues. The program is designed in a manner that promotes safety, fairness, and equal opportunity for all to participate.
Student clubs
Like video production or working on global issues? How about foreign languages or honor societies? WOU students are involved in many organizations, including social action clubs, LGBTQ groups and culture-based organizations. Choose your favorites and start connecting with your campus!
- Acapella Club
- MECHA
- Pre-Nursing Club
- Music Activities Club
- Black Student Union
- Kappa Delta Chi Sorority Inc.
- Kappa Sigma Fraternity
Western Oregon University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).