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Wayne Morse Scholars
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 undergrad or transfer student who can commit to at least two (2) years, including senior year, in the program is eligible to apply.
Interested in being a Wayne Morse Scholar?
The application portal to join the 2027-2028 cohort
will open in mid-to-late March 2027.
Early application deadline = April 12, 2027, at 5pm
Final application deadline = May 10, 2027, at 5pm
Check out answers to frequently asked questions through the link below.
What Scholars do
Tackle big questions of democracy and governance.
Special four-credit seminar PS 351: Democratic Dilemmas
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.
Share a meal or conversation 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.
Scholars by the numbers
Current Wayne Morse Scholars
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 participate in field trips, internships, and valuable leadership workshops, and other experiences that encourage their development into well-informed and seasoned leaders.