In the College of Arts and Sciences, discovery-oriented learning is the norm. We don’t ask our students to just sit and listen—we invite them to get involved, gain experience, and explore the greater world. From internships and research projects to creative collaborations, our hands-on learning opportunities will prepare you to succeed in your academics and your career after college.
Support the CAS Experiential Learning Fund
The CAS Experiential Learning Fund provides support for students pursuing hands-on learning opportunities, such as campus internships, lab experiences, community-oriented volunteer—and more.
Abundant Undergraduate Research
Undergraduates across the arts and sciences have the opportunity to take part in research teams or conduct individual research projects.
Rich Experiential Learning
Hands-on learning emphasizes the knowledge and skills gained through experiences beyond the traditional classroom format.
Hands-On Learning Scholarship
The College of Arts and Sciences is pleased to invite undergraduate students to apply for scholarships to support them in pursuing experiential learning opportunities. The scholarship will provide financial support of up to $5,000 to assist students in completing an unpaid internship, research opportunity, or service-learning experience. Preference will be given to applicants with financial need, as determined by the Office of Student Financial Aid & Scholarships. We will consider assistance for paid internships where the case can be made that the compensation will not be adequate to cover living expenses.
Walter and Nancy Kidd Creative Writing Workshop
The Kidd workshop is a unique studio experience in which students pursue their passion for creative writing. Students enter one of two tracks: fiction or poetry, then workshop their creative work in small classes with the support of peers and a graduate mentor. Students also attend lectures by visiting writers and Creative Writing faculty.
Environmental Leadership Program
The Environmental Leadership Program is a collaborative service-learning program where students are matched into teams with non-profit organizations, governmental agencies and businesses to address local environmental needs. Students gain leadership, communication and professional skills by engaging directly in applied problem-resolution while providing valuable assistance to community partners.
Research Laboratory Opportunities
Bioscience laboratories at the University of Oregon host a collection of cutting-edge research that offers undergraduate students the opportunity to participate in. Not only will students be trained in experimental methods and logic, participation in hands-on research synergizes with coursework, and equips students with skills to succeed post-graduation. Students also have the opportunity to experience work in a variety of career fields, helping them make the right choice for them. Many graduating students reflect that their hands-on research experience was the most meaningful educational experience they had while at the UO.
Prison Education Program
The Prison Education Program was established in 2016, building on collaboration between the University of Oregon and the Department of Corrections to offer credited classes through the Inside-Out Program beginning in 2007. We work in an interdisciplinary academic framework, and with a broad range of students, campus organizations, community groups, and national organizations working to improve educational opportunities in prisons. We are now active in offering classes, not-for-credit opportunities, and in working to advance educational opportunities for people who are incarcerated statewide.
Take Your Education International
In partnership with Global Education Oregon, the College of Arts and Sciences sponsors a world of opportunities to study abroad.
Gaining Real-World Experience
Students of Color Opportunities in Research Enrichment
SCORE (Students of Color Opportunities in Research Enrichment) is an academically based hands-on research club designed for students who are underrepresented in the life sciences. The program involved weekly workshops designed to teach students basic laboratory techniques, with the primary goal being to enable each student to gain confidence with a scientific skillset. These skills aid in students perusing undergraduate research and professional development opportunities.
First-year Interest Groups (FIGs)
Find your path, find your people. Each FIG is unique and tailored to explore an exciting academic theme while helping students acclimate to campus both academically and socially. There are seven themes to choose from, and with over 50 FIGs offered each fall there is something for everyone!
Academic Residential Communities (ARCs)
Academic Residential Communities are programs created by University Housing to help students find a community based around shared interests and passions for inquiry. Students living in ARCs take classes together and connect with professors and advisors who offer social and academic support.
Student Organizations
Looking for opportunities to connect with peers, network around common interests, and make an impact outside of the classroom? At the UO, you have your choice of more than 400 student organizations, societies, and clubs you can join.
Special Facilities for Learning
Our network of research facilities, centers, and institutes provides students with enhanced access to technologies, capacities, training, and projects that expand the boundaries of inquiry and skills development.
Liberal Arts for Real-World Careers
CAS has countless opportunities for students to increase their skillsets and portfolios with meaningful learning experiences. To prepare our students for life beyond college, we challenge them to examine our society’s most important questions, developing and honing their skills in questioning critically, thinking logically, communicating clearly, and collaborating with others.
Our students and alumni constantly surprise and inspire us with the professional paths they have blazed — journeys that begin with study of the natural sciences, humanities and social sciences.
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