Informed Debate Community Social Justice
The Wayne Morse Scholars program is for UO undergrads from any background or major. It provides skills building, service learning, and leadership training to students interested in public affairs and community engagement. Any current UO student or transfer student who can commit to at least two years as an undergraduate in the program is eligible to apply.
Application information
The final application deadline for academic year 2024-25 was Monday, May 20 . We will open the application process for academic year 2025-26 in late winter term or early spring term of 2025.
What Scholars do
Tackle big questions of democracy and governance.
Special seminars PS351: Democratic Dilemmas and PS408: Democracy in Practice. Monthly lunch gatherings to discuss compelling topics ranging from campus and local issues to national and global challenges (free food!)
Explore forms of political engagement.
Annual field trips to Salem, Portland, and other sites to watch the political process and public policy in action
Participate in praxis in real-world settings.
Internships and applied research for upper-level scholars, with modest funding to support them
Develop leadership skills.
Hands-on workshops and training sessions to prepare for the job world and to explore varied leadership styles
Connect with prominent scholars and elected officials.
Backstage PASSes with invited speakers including: elected officials, public scholars, and movement leaders
Join a community of students committed to service and justice.
Fun social events and service days
Current Wayne Morse Scholars
Class of 2024 Class of 2023 Class of 2022 Class of 2021 Past years
Give to the Scholars program
Your gift will help Wayne Morse Scholars reach their maximum potential. With the help of our generous donors, Wayne Morse Scholars are able to particpate in field trips, internships, and valuable leadership workshops, and other experiences that encourage their development into well-informed and seasoned leaders.