We’re a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities—one of only 36 public universities committed to scientific exploration and interdisciplinary research. We’re founded on and committed to a tradition of classic liberal arts education. One dedicated to overcoming barriers and discovering how much there still is to discover. We’re driven by what we don’t know, and by finding the answers.

Who we are and will continue to be
We exist to provide access to a high quality education for those who want one. Students who will help us shape the future. We’re here to spread knowledge, because knowledge is the wealth of any civilization. It adds depth and meaning to the world, and it can change lives on the most fundamental level, for the better. And we exist to cultivate excellence in all things, by preparing students to be active participants in a global society. Students who question critically, think logically, communicate clearly, act creatively, and live ethically. This is who we are. Who we’ve always been. And who we will continue to be.

Serving the state, nation and world since 1876

The University of Oregon is a comprehensive public research university committed to exceptional teaching, discovery, and service. We work at a human scale to generate big ideas.

Purpose

We strive for excellence in teaching, research, artistic expression, and the generation, dissemination, preservation, and application of knowledge. We are devoted to educating the whole person, and to fostering the next generation of transformational leaders and informed participants in the global community. Through these pursuits, we enhance the social, cultural, physical, and economic wellbeing of our students, Oregon, the nation, and the world.

Vision

We aspire to be a preeminent and innovative public research university encompassing the humanities and arts, the natural and social sciences, and the professions. We seek to enrich the human condition through collaboration, teaching, mentoring, scholarship, experiential learning, creative inquiry, scientific discovery, outreach, and public service.

Values

We value the passions, aspirations, individuality, and success of the students, faculty, and staff who work and learn here.
We value academic freedom, creative expression, and intellectual discourse.
We value our diversity and seek to foster equity and inclusion in a welcoming, safe, and respectful community.

We value the unique geography, history and culture of Oregon that shapes our identity and spirit.
We value our shared charge to steward resources sustainably and responsibly.