Western Oregon University: A Legacy of Learning and Community

Western Oregon University (WOU), located in Monmouth, Oregon, stands as a testament to the state's commitment to higher education. Founded in 1856 by Oregon pioneers, it holds the distinction of being the oldest public institution in the state. From its humble beginnings as Monmouth University to its current status as a comprehensive university, WOU has evolved to meet the changing needs of its students and the region.

A Historical Journey: From Monmouth University to Western Oregon University

The university's history is a rich tapestry woven with threads of perseverance and growth. Originally established as Monmouth University by Disciples of Christ pioneers, the institution underwent several transformations, reflecting its evolving mission and academic focus.

Monmouth University (1856-1865): The university's origins lie in the vision of Oregon pioneers who sought to establish a center of learning in the Willamette Valley.
Christian College (1865-1882): A merger with Bethel College marked a shift in the institution's affiliation and academic direction.
Oregon State Normal School (1882-1910): This name change signaled the state's recognition of the institution's role in teacher education.
Oregon Normal School (1910-1939): This period saw the formal establishment of a normal school at Monmouth, solidifying its focus on training educators.
Oregon College of Education (1939-1981): The institution continued to expand its academic offerings, while maintaining its commitment to teacher education.
Western Oregon State College (1981-1997): Reflecting the growth of academic programs in the liberal arts, the college adopted a new name that signaled its broader mission.
Western Oregon University (1997-Present): The university achieved its current status, signifying its comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

The Courier, Western’s oldest yearbook on record that was published in December of 1905 stated that “A brief perusal of the roll of graduates published in the annual catalogue will disclose the fact that 780 men and women have completed the course during the past 22 years”. The December issue of The Courier from 1906 stated that “One afternoon in early June the students were all out on the campus, the boys playing lawn tennis and the girls promenading in the shade of the magnificent grove that shadowed the school building, while peals of merry laughter rang out, mingled with the voices of the tennis players”. President E. D. Ressler suggested in 1906 to “Enter heartily into the student affairs” and to “Strive to attain the ideals presented both in the class room and on the play ground”.

Academics: A Diverse Range of Programs

Western Oregon University incorporates both the College of Education and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, offering bachelor's degrees in 52 academic majors. The university is known for its strong programs in education, American Sign Language (ASL), the performing and visual arts, and criminal justice.

Notable academic programs include:

Exercise Science
Psychology
Business
American Sign Language
Criminal Justice

Unique academic programs include:

Gerontology
Cybercrime, Investigation, and Enforcement
ASL/Interpreting Studies

The university also offers combined institution double degree programs, summer sessions, online classes and online undergraduate degrees. Some programs require co-op/internship experiences, providing students with valuable real-world skills.

A Focus on Student Success

WOU is committed to providing a supportive learning environment where students can thrive. The classes at Western Oregon University are really good. You learn a lot in these small classes because you can ask questions and talk to the professors. The faculty are strong teachers who care about their students' success. The teachers are great here! They are all willing to be there to help you out, and are thrilled to teach you. I really enjoy the class sizes because it makes it easier for the teachers to be more personally with you. Almost all my teachers knew me on a first name basis.

In January 2024, the university announced it would eliminate its D- and F grades and instead replace these with a grade of "no credit", implementing a strength-based grading approach to enhance student success.

Learning Options

Students at WOU have access to a variety of learning options, including:

Read also: CWRU Tuition and Fees

ROTC Army
ROTC Air Force
Study Abroad
Honors Program
Teacher Certification

Skills for the Future

Learning to think, research, and write about history is useful in a number of careers. Unlike some fields of study, history does not limit students to one job or technology. Foreign service officers, business executives, journalists, lawyers, librarians, archivists, and museum curators have majored in history as undergraduates. History also makes an exciting teaching career. In our society of dramatic change, most people change careers numerous times during their lifetime. The problem-solving skills developed from close readings of texts and documents are valuable for any career. The ability to define, research, and interpret a subject are skills needed in education, business, and government.

Campus Life: A Vibrant Community

Western Oregon University’s campus is a vibrant and inclusive community, with a wide range of student organizations, clubs, and activities that cater to diverse interests and passions. The university’s student union, the Werner University Center, is the main place where all events happen and a hub of activity, featuring a food court, bookstore, and event spaces that host concerts, lectures, and cultural events.

The campus is beautiful and conveniently close together. The buildings were easy to navigate and the dorms looked really inviting. With all the extracurricular activities, big recreation center, and car service they have, this school made a great impression. As soon as you step on campus, you feel at home. Western has a very comfortable atmosphere.

On May 18, 2012, the school was introduced to its first traditional Greek life with the organization and initiation of Kappa Sigma fraternity, Sigma Tau chapter . The schools Greek system now consists of one traditional fraternity, one traditional sorority, one non-traditional fraternity and one non-traditional sorority. The school welcomed Alpha Chi Omega, its first traditional sorority in the fall of 2015 with the organization founding its chapter in 2016. On November 29, 2012, the Beta Kappa chapter of Omega Delta Phi fraternity was founded.

WOU is a medium-sized public university with strong programs in education, American Sign Language (ASL), the performing and visual arts, and criminal justice. The small-town environment is friendly and safe.

Read also: Growth and Community at WOU

Housing

On-campus housing is strongly recommended for incoming NSE students. Available residence halls for NSE students are Arbor Park, Ackerman Hall, Barnum Hall, and Landers Hall. Arbor Park is optional for meal plan purchase. Ackerman and Landers Halls require a meal plan purchase. Ackerman and Barnum are upperclass and first-year residences. Barnum Hall and Landers Hall is available based on occupancy levels. Gender inclusive housing is available in Arbor Park, Barnum, and Ackerman Hall.

Athletics

The Western Oregon athletic teams are called the Wolves. The university is a member of the Division II level of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), primarily competing in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC) since the 2001-02 academic year. Western Oregon fields 11 men’s and women’s athletic teams known as the Wolves.

Campus Safety

The university prioritizes the safety and well-being of its students with the following measures:

24-HR security patrol
Campus emergency phones
24-HR escort safety rides
Mobile campus emergency alert

Tuition, Cost & Aid: Making Education Accessible

Western Oregon University is committed to providing affordable access to higher education. The tuition costs are as follows:

In-State Tuition: \$11,025
Out-of-State Tuition: \$30,735

Additional costs include:

Room and Board: \$11,610
Books and Supplies: \$1125

The average net price is \$19,315.

Financial Aid

WOU offers a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. The university encourages every student to apply for financial aid, regardless of whether or not they think they qualify. The 2026-27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or ORSAA is now available. WOU’s financial aid priority deadline is February 1st.

In 2021, the university awarded \$13,225,791 in total needs-based scholarships/grants and \$1,391,080 in total non-need-based scholarships/grants.

Students receiving federal loans average \$4,687 per year, while those receiving other loans average \$12,706 per year.

Support Services

Western Oregon University offers a range of support services, including academic advising, tutoring, career counseling, and mental health services.

Admissions: Joining the WOU Community

Western Oregon University requires a minimum GPA of 2.5, as well as completion of the Oregon transfer module or equivalent coursework. The college has rolling admissions, which means applications are accepted any time throughout the year.

Admitted student stats include an average ACT Composite of 19 and an average SAT Composite of 1057.

Life After Graduation: Preparing for Success

Western Oregon University prepares students for success in their chosen careers. The problem-solving skills developed from close readings of texts and documents are valuable for any career. The ability to define, research, and interpret a subject are skills needed in education, business, and government.

Post-Graduation Statistics

Average Salary 6 years after graduation
Average Debt at Graduation: The median federal debt of undergraduate borrowers who graduated. This figure includes only federal loans; it excludes private student loans and Parent PLUS loans.
Loan Default Rate: National: 8%
Median Monthly Loan Payment: The median monthly loan payment for student borrowers who completed, if it were repaid over 10 years at a 5.05% interest rate.

A Hispanic Serving Institution

Western Oregon University is proud to be a Hispanic Serving Institution, a vibrant community that empowers us to elevate and support every single student!

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