Think you know everything about the University of Oregon because you watch the Ducks play football every Saturday? There’s so much more to this incredible university than a winning team. With over 22,000 students from across the country and around the world, UO offers top-ranked academic programs you may not even realize exist. From business and law to architecture and product design, prepare to be surprised by all that’s happening outside Autzen Stadium. In this blog, we’ll take you on an inside tour of UO’s exceptional learning opportunities, cutting-edge research, and vibrant student culture beyond the roar of the crowd on game day. Get ready to discover the incredible Ducks who are making their mark across campus.
Overview of the University of Oregon
The University of Oregon is a top-tier public research university located in Eugene, Oregon. Founded in 1876, the UO offers over 300 academic programs across 12 schools and colleges. Beyond athletics, the UO is a leader in research, sustainability, and access to education.
Academics
The UO has a student population of over 23,000, with a student-faculty ratio of 18:1. The university has over 300 academic programs across 12 schools and colleges, including the Robert D. Clark Honors College. Some of the top ranked programs are Journalism, Business, Education, and Psychology. The UO Libraries system contains over 3.5 million volumes.
Campus Life
The UO campus spans 295 acres along the Willamette River. Over 80% of freshman live on campus, with options like co-ed dorms, fraternities and sororities, and apartment style housing. There are over 350 student organizations, from academic clubs to community service groups. The Erb Memorial Union is the center of campus life, with dining options, study spaces, and entertainment.
Athletics
The UO is renowned for athletics, with 19 varsity sports teams nicknamed the Ducks. The football team has appeared in three BCS bowl games, including the 2011 BCS National Championship Game. Track and field athletes have won several Olympic medals. The Matthew Knight Arena is home to men’s and women’s basketball, gymnastics, and volleyball. Students receive free admission to all home games.
Sustainability
The UO has a national reputation for sustainability and environmental research. It has one of the largest campus sustainability offices in the U.S. and is a leader in green building, waste reduction, and alternative transportation. The Student Sustainability Center empowers students to create change through projects like an urban farm, bike sharing, and zero-waste events.
From the picturesque campus to standout academics and athletics, the University of Oregon offers an ideal environment for learning and growth. Whether you’re interested in journalism or sustainability, business or psychology, the UO has a place for you.
Academics at the University of Oregon
The University of Oregon is a top-tier public research university, and offers over 300 academic programs. No matter what you’re passionate about studying, you’re sure to find an area of focus at UO.
Undergraduate Programs
UO offers bachelor’s degrees in over 260 areas of study, from anthropology to graphic design to physics. Some of the most popular majors are business, biology, psychology, and journalism. UO has a strong focus on interdisciplinary studies, with unique majors like environmental studies, cinema studies, and human physiology.
UO also has an acclaimed honors college, with more intimate classes and opportunities for undergraduate research. Over 2,000 students across all disciplines participate in the UO Honors College.
Graduate and Doctoral Programs
At the graduate level, UO offers over 100 master’s and doctoral degrees, as well as graduate certificates and endorsements. Especially prestigious are the UO’s MBA program, ranked in the top 50 in the U.S., and its school of law, which has produced two U.S. Supreme Court justices. UO also has top-ranked graduate programs in architecture, education, and creative writing.
Faculty
UO’s faculty are leaders in their fields, including members of the National Academy of Sciences, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and the National Endowment for the Humanities. Undergraduates benefit from UO’s faculty focus on mentorship and access to research opportunities. The low student-faculty ratio, especially in upper-level classes, means you can develop close connections with professors and advisors.
From its picturesque campus to its vibrant culture of learning and innovation, the University of Oregon provides an unparalleled educational experience. Academically challenging yet personally fulfilling, UO cultivates lifelong learners and leaders.
Student Life and Campus Culture in Eugene
The University of Oregon is a place buzzing with activity, not just on the football field but all over campus. Eugene has a lively culture with plenty of opportunities for entertainment and recreation.
An Active Student Body
UO students are passionate and engaged, with over 300 student clubs and organizations to join. No matter your interests, you’ll find your tribe. Get involved in student government, join an academic club, volunteer, play intramural sports, or rush a fraternity or sorority. There are also many opportunities for leadership to help build your resume.
Exploring the Outdoors
Given the university’s location in the Pacific Northwest, outdoor activities abound. You can go hiking, cycling, kayaking or rock climbing. Nearby natural areas like Spencer Butte and the Willamette River offer spots for recreation and relaxation. Students also take advantage of the sunny weather to play beach volleyball, have picnics on the lawn or go sunbathing.
A Vibrant Local Culture
Eugene has a lively culture, especially around the campus. Downtown Eugene, just a short walk from UO, features local shops, ethnic eateries, microbrew pubs, and music venues that showcase up-and-coming bands. The Hult Center hosts Broadway shows, dance and music performances. Autzen Stadium, home of the Ducks football team, also holds major concerts.
Diverse Dining Options
You’ll never go hungry at UO with diverse dining options on and off campus. UO has award-winning dining halls, food carts featuring international cuisine, and cafes with vegan and gluten-free options. Off campus, you can find food from around the globe – Thai, Indian, Japanese, Italian. Eugene’s food culture will expose you to new flavors from near and far.
Overall, life as a UO student extends far beyond the classroom. You’ll have the opportunity to pursue your passions, experience different cultures, enjoy outdoor recreation, and make lifelong friendships. At the University of Oregon, you’ll get an education for life.
Athletics and the Oregon Ducks Football Team
The University of Oregon is home to an impressive athletics program, but nothing quite compares to Ducks football. Autzen Stadium is one of the loudest stadiums in college football, with a capacity of over 54,000 fans cheering on the Ducks each home game.
A Powerhouse Program
The Ducks have become a powerhouse football program over the last few decades. Since 1994, the team has had only two losing seasons and has played in 22 bowl games, including four Rose Bowls and two College Football Playoff National Championships. The Ducks are known for their flashy uniforms, fast-paced offense, and rabid fan base.
Some of the program’s most successful years were under former head coach Chip Kelly, who led the Ducks to three Pac-12 titles and an appearance in the 2011 BCS National Championship Game. The Ducks currently have the 7th best winning percentage among FBS teams over the last 20 years. The future remains bright under current head coach Mario Cristobal.
Facilities
The Ducks football facilities are state-of-the-art, including:
-
The Hatfield-Dowlin Complex, a 145,000 square foot facility featuring areas for athletic training, strength and conditioning, and team meeting rooms.
-
The Marcus Mariota Sports Performance Center, an elite training facility dedicated to maximizing player performance. Named after former Ducks QB Marcus Mariota, a Heisman Trophy winner.
-
Autzen Stadium, the home of Ducks football since 1967. Underwent major renovations and expansions in 2002 and 2013. Known for its loud and raucous crowd.
Recruiting Power
The Ducks have become a recruiting powerhouse, consistently pulling in top 10 recruiting classes in recent years. Flashy facilities and Nike’s support certainly don’t hurt, but the program’s recent success and exciting brand of football are the biggest selling points for recruits. Top high school players around the country are flocking to Eugene to become part of Ducks football.
The athletics program and football team in particular have brought tremendous success and national recognition to the University of Oregon. The future remains bright for Ducks football, with conference titles and playoff appearances likely for years to come. For sports fans, Eugene is the place to be on Saturdays in the fall.
Frequently Asked Questions About the University of Oregon
The University of Oregon, also known as UO or Oregon, is a public research university in Eugene, Oregon. If you’re considering attending UO, you likely have some questions about what it’s like. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and answers about the university:
-
How big is the campus? The UO campus is 295 acres with over 80 buildings. Despite its size, the campus has a small-town feel with beautiful architecture and lots of greenery. You can easily walk or bike across campus.
-
What is the student life like? With over 22,000 students, there are lots of opportunities to get involved in student life at UO. You can join one of the 300+ student clubs and organizations, attend football games at Autzen Stadium, visit the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, work out at the Student Recreation Center, and much more. The school spirit and pride in the Ducks is huge.
-
What academic programs does UO offer? UO offers over 300 degree options across various colleges like the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Education, School of Journalism and Communication, and more. Some of the top majors are business, human physiology, journalism, and psychology. UO is also home to the Knight Law School and the School of Music and Dance.
-
How much does it cost to attend? For the 2020-2021 school year, annual tuition and fees for an in-state undergraduate student are about $11,700. Out-of-state undergrads pay $35,500. Room and board costs $12,500. UO offers many scholarships, grants, work-study jobs and student loans to help make college affordable.
-
What is the campus environment like? The UO campus has a vibrant, eco-friendly environment. Many students live on campus or nearby in Eugene. The school values sustainability, diversity and community. The mild weather in Eugene means you can enjoy outdoor activities most of the year. With the Willamette River and nearby Cascade Mountains, there are lots of opportunities to experience the natural surroundings.
UO has a lot to offer as a prestigious yet laid-back university. If you have any other questions about life at UO, check out uoregon.edu or schedule a campus visit. Go Ducks!
Conclusion
So there you have it! The University of Oregon is more than just a powerhouse football program. With over 300 degree programs, cutting-edge research, and a vibrant campus culture, UO offers something for everyone. Whether you’re an art lover strolling through the Jordan Schnitzer Museum, a future scientist researching in the Phil and Penny Knight Campus for Accelerating Scientific Impact, or a diehard Ducks fan catching a game at Autzen, one thing is for sure – this university will capture your heart and feed your curiosity. The next time you think of UO, remember there’s a whole world beyond the football stadium waiting to be explored. So come witness Oregon’s winning combination of academics and athletics for yourself!
