Turn Knowledge Into Action
Reimagine What’s Possible
There is no formula for turning great ideas into reality. And there is no fixed path toward having an impact. At Willamette, you will have the support and flexibility to pursue meaningful opportunities – and discover the power of a close-knit community. This is where you will gain the knowledge and skills you will use to make your mark.
AN EDUCATION WITHOUT LIMITS
As a liberal arts university, we not only encourage you to explore your interests, we offer the resources and opportunities to do so. Connect with peers and faculty from different backgrounds, take classes across departments, and engage with an active campus life as you discover the path that’s right for you.
YOUR REPUTATION IS OUR REPUTATION
While large universities try to replicate the experience of a liberal arts college by offering an honors program, they don’t measure up to the real thing. Our in-person college experience, with classes taught by award-winning professors, offers a carefully-designed teaching model that emphasizes collaboration and small class sizes. At Willamette, there is no need to have a separate honors college because every student admitted to Willamette is of honors college calibre.
FIND BELONGING
As a residential campus, our students get the most out of their college experience by fully immersing in the Willamette community. We require students to live in campus housing for their first two years. Studies prove that living on campus sets students up for success by strengthening social bonds among peers, increasing access to support services, and fostering a sense of independence that leads to self-discovery. Living on campus also leads to higher retention and graduation rates.
WELCOME TO WILLAMETTE
UNDERGRADUATE ENROLLMENT 1,620 STUDENT TO FACULTY RATIO 12:1
SIZE
“Willamette has not only helped me find my passion, but has provided me with a unique opportunity to broaden my knowledge and skills in various areas of business, develop valuable professional connections, and enhance my career prospects.” —Addy Bohag ’23, MBA ’24
Ask Questions, Find Solutions
Explore the multidisciplinary connections that shape our world. View public health through the lens of wealth inequality. Examine the role of social media in politics. Connect data science to environmental stewardship. Pursue your varied interests to discover links between disciplines that haven’t been considered
before.
MAJORS BUILT FOR THE REAL WORLD
Willamette’s interdisciplinary approach to academics opens a wide range of opportunities to our students. Because we do not place strict boundaries between academic departments, our curriculum offers flexibility so your education aligns with your goals. Our network of Career Communities facilitates study across majors, helping students gain the knowledge they need to thrive in their chosen careers. Conduct research alongside faculty, participate in independent research projects, or study abroad to enrich your academic experience.
Accelerate your degree and gain an extra year of earning power with Willamette’s Dual Degree programs. By enrolling in one of our accelerated degree programs, you’ll take three years of undergraduate classes before pursuing your graduate degree at Willamette or one of our partner schools. Save time and money by choosing an accelerated program.
• 3+3 BA/JD (Law)
• 3+1 BS/MS Data Science
• 3+1 BS/MS Computer Science
• 3+2 BA/MBA
BS/MBA (Business)
• 3+2 BA/MFA
BS/MFA Fine Arts
• 3+2 BA/MA
BS/MA Critical Studies
• 3+2 Forestry with one of our partner schools: Oregon State University and Duke University
• 3+2 Engineering with one of our partner schools: Columbia University and Washington University in St. Louis
ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
American Ethnic Studies Minor
Archaeology Major/Minor
Art History Major/Minor
Art, Studio Major/Minor
Arts, Technology & Multimedia Minor
Asian Studies Minor
Biochemistry Special Program
Biology Major/Minor
Business Major/Minor
Business Management
3+2 BA/MBA BS/MBA Dual Degree
Chemistry Major/Minor
Chinese Studies Minor
Cinema Studies Major/Minor
Civic Communication & Media Major/Minor
Classical Studies Major/Minor
Computer Science Major/Minor
Computer Science 3+1 BS/MS Dual Degree
Creative Writing Special Program
Critical Studies
3+2 BA/MA BS/MA Dual Degree
Data Science Major/Minor
Data Science 3+1 BS/MS Dual Degree
Economics Major/Minor
Engineering 3+2 Dual Degree
Engineering, Industrial Major
English Major/Minor
Environmental Science Major/Minor
Exercise & Health Science Major
Fine Arts
3+2 BA/MFA BS/MFA Dual Degree
Forestry 3+2 Dual Degree
French & Francophone Studies Minor
German Minor
Global Cultural Studies Major/Minor
History Major/Minor
Individualized Major
International Studies Major
Japanese Studies Major/Minor
Latin American Studies Minor
Law 3+3 BA/JD Dual Degree
Mathematics Major/Minor
Music Major/Minor
Not-for-Profit Management
3+2 BA/MBA BS/MBA Dual Degree
Philosophy Major/Minor
Physics Major/Minor
Politics, Policy, Law & Ethics Major/Minor
Pre-Health Special Program
Pre-Law Special Program
Pre-Medicine Special Program
Pre-Veterinary Medicine Special Program
Psychology Major/Minor
Public Health Major/Minor
Public Management
3+2 BA/MBA BS/MBA Dual Degree
Religious Studies Major/Minor
Russian Minor
Sociology Major/Minor
Spanish Major/Minor
Statistics Major/Minor
Sustainability Minor
Theatre Major/Minor
Theatre, Musical Major
Women’s & Gender Studies Major/Minor
“Because of Willamette, I was able to finish my combined undergraduate and law degrees within six years of finishing high school, and secure a job before graduation.” —Christopher Ishihara ’20, JD ’22
HAVE AN IMPACT
The ability to adapt and tailor their teaching methods to the evolving needs of students has led Willamette faculty members to consistently earn awards for teaching excellence. Your professors will connect you to real-world learning experiences and help you seek out opportunities that are in line with your goals. It’s no wonder Willamette is home to more Oregon Professors of the Year than any other school.
STUDENT ENGAGEMENT
Our residential campus is built to foster community and involvement. With more than 95 student clubs and organizations, there is something for everyone.
STUDY ABROAD
Students find opportunities to expand their perspective and deepen their education through more than 70 study abroad programs across the globe.
RESEARCH + INTERNSHIPS
Our distinctive location allows us to connect students to a wide range of paid research projects and internships annually that provide realworld experience for undergrads.
OPPORTUNITIES AT ZENA
Willamette University at Zena is a 305-acre forest that serves as a living laboratory, offering hands-on research and creative inspiration.
“At Willamette, I began to understand who I am — that being in a community with one another is everything in this world, and that the only thing that truly has value is our connections with one another.”
—Brice Hoerauf ‘25 double major in environmental science and economics
Act On Your Ideas
Turn your passion into impact and put your ideas into practice. Our students have advocated for legislation at the Oregon State Capitol, promoted conservation at Willamette University at Zena, spearheaded their own entrepreneurial ventures, and supported the interests of communities in Oregon and around the globe.
ACADEMIC AND SOCIAL RESOURCES
STUDENT RESOURCES
Accessible Education Services (AES)
Bearcat Pantry
Bishop Wellness Center, includes counseling and health services
Campus Safety
Career Development
Center for Quantitative Understanding, Analysis, and Design (QUAD)
Clothing Share
Digital Learning Studio
First-Generation Book Drive
Gender Resource and Advocacy Center (GRAC)
J.W. Long Library
Mark O. Hatfield Library
Native American Programs
Office of International Education
Office of Intercultural Engagement and Inclusion
Residence Life/Housing
Renjen Center for Equity and Empowerment
Student Success Hub
Tutoring
Writing Center
INTERNSHIPS (PARTIAL LISTING)
Cascade AIDS Project
Columbia Sportswear Company
Governor’s Office
Hallie Ford Museum of Art
Head Start
HSBC Global Banking & Markets
Mid-Valley Women’s Crisis Service
New York Mets
Nike
Oregon Bankers Association
Oregon Department of Justice
Oregon Environmental Council
Oregon Lottery
Oregon Office of Economic Analysis
Oregon State Legislature
Portland Trail Blazers
Salem Hospital
Salem Housing Authority
U.S. Senate
Willamette Heritage Center
Willamette Valley Bank
“At Willamette, I found support in the community to overcome the different challenges that come from attending college as a first generation student of color.”
—Juana Arias Cuellar ’22 double major in psychology and sociology
Empower Yourself
We provide the support and resources specific to our students’ needs. They develop skills that will help them stand out to employers and graduate schools – such as the ability to adapt, create, collaborate, and take on challenges from multiple perspectives.
GET INVOLVED
Through student-led clubs and organizations, you will have the opportunity to spearhead programs, performances, and outreach and work together to have a positive impact on campus and beyond. These organizations are open to everyone, bringing students with different majors together to share their knowledge and experience. Willamette’s motto “Not unto ourselves alone are we born” inspires a sense of social responsibility within our community and serves as a reminder that everyone can and should use their talents, knowledge, and resources to make the world a better place.
STUDENT IMPACT ORGANIZATIONS
Choice Action Team
Climate Action Alliance
Community Action Fund for Equity and Sustainability
Disability Advocacy Club
Neurodivergent Student Union
New Roots Non Traditional Student Union
Pro Immigrant Rights Student Union
Restorative Justice Coalition
Sexual Assault Response
Advocates
Willamette Emergency Medical Services
MULTICULTURAL CLUBS
Alianza
Asian Coalition for Equality
Black Student Union
Hawai‘i Club
Japan Studies Student Leaders
Multiracial Collective
Native and Indigenous Student Union
Queer Student Union
Sinophone Cultural Association
FRATERNITY AND SORORITY
LIFE
Alpha Chi Omega
Alpha Phi
Interfraternity Council
Campus Ambassadors
Kappa Sigma
Panhellenic Council
Sigma Chi
Jewish Student Union RELIGIOUS AND SPIRITUAL GROUPS
InterVarsity Christian Fellowship
Christian Fellowship
“At Willamette, I’ve experienced a mix of academic challenges, creative exploration, and meaningful engagement, which have set the stage for an exciting future ahead.”
—Cylie Lagao ’24 major in business administration
Establish Your Perspective
A college education is about more than what you learn in the classroom; it is about the person you become. As a residential campus, we strive to foster involvement and connection among our student community. We believe that engaging with campus life and connecting with people who share your interests and goals enriches the academic experience – and leads to lasting friendships.
JOIN THE TEAM
In addition to filling out our inquiry form, we encourage prospective scholar-athletes to visit campus and meet with members of the coaching staff to learn more about our DIII teams and start your recruitment. If you want to participate in college sports without the competition of a varsity team, you have the opportunity to join a club team. These are official campus teams that compete in tournaments, travel, and have close-knit team dynamics. Willamette does not use letters of intent to guarantee a commitment from a prospective scholar-athlete.
NCAA DIVISION III TEAMS
CLUB SPORTS
Frisbee
Volleyball Club Willamette Rugby
Experience
It All
At Willamette, we refer to our athletes as scholar-athletes because we are committed to providing a space for our students to explore their multi-faceted selves. Our emphasis on holistic development means maintaining a healthy balance between academics and athletics, a balance that is supported by faculty and coaches. Scholar-athletes make up a quarter of Willamette’s student population, excelling both on the field and in the classroom.
Academics Meet Creativity
Whether your creative pursuits lead you to center stage, behind the scenes, or the walls of a gallery, Willamette offers opportunities and resources to explore your passions. We prioritize a holistic, well-rounded education – which often includes experiences beyond the classroom. From student-led groups to campus-sponsored performances, there are many ways to share your creativity and connect with fellow students.
WHO CAN AUDITION?
Campus productions and ensembles hold open call auditions, meaning every student can try out, regardless of their major. As a liberal arts university, we believe that students become their best selves when they have the opportunity to explore all of their varied interests. Participating in a musical group or stage production allows students to build confidence and work together toward a shared goal, finding a supportive community in the process.
ART & MUSIC STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
Art Club
Bearcat Band
Chamber Choir
Flow Arts Club
Headband (a cappella)
Millstream Sailors (a cappella)
Poetry Club
Student Theatre Arts Group for Equity
Taiko Club
Tandem (a cappella)
University Chamber Orchestra
University Concert Band
Up Top (a cappella)
Voce (vocal ensemble)
Vox (vocal ensemble)
W Improv Posse
Waller String Quartet
Willamette Dance Company
Willamette Jazz Collective
Willamette Singers
PERFORMANCE SPACES
G. Herbert Smith Auditorium
Jerry E. Hudson
Concert Hall
M. Lee Pelton Theater
Mary Stuart Rogers
Music Center
VISUAL ART SPACES
Drawing Studio
Installation Studio
Lighting Studio
Painting Studio
Photography Classroom/Darkroom
Printmaking Studio
Sculpture Studio
Student Gallery
Tintype Studio
MUSIC LABS & STUDIOS
Digital Music Lab
Electronic Media Studio
Mixing/Editing Suite
Percussion Studio
Recording Studio
A COLLEGE TOWN VIBE WITH BIG CITY RESOURCES
As Oregon’s capital city, Salem offers students access to unparalleled learning opportunities. Willamette’s campus is positioned between the State Capitol and Salem Health, providing internships, networking, and research – enhancing your college experience.
MINUTES to the Oregon Coast
to
MINUTES (by foot) to downtown Salem
“One of my favorite things to do is walk downtown with my friends, get coffee, and walk around Riverfront Park. Having dozens of coffee shops, restaurants, and stores so accessible within 5-10 minutes means we have so many choices of fun things to do off-campus and makes me feel more like a part of the Salem community.”
—Maddy Kaplan ’22 major in psychology
MINUTES
Mt. Hood
Oregon State Capitol
Hallie Ford Museum of Art
Oregon Supreme Court
Salem Hospital
Bush’s Pasture Park
Riverfront Park
Elsinore Theatre
Saturday Market
Minto Island Park
The Bistro Coffeehouse
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN
/ STREAMS
EXPLORE FURTHER
We want our students to experience all that the Pacific Northwest has to offer – and it is our priority to ensure they have safe options to do so. There are several safe and reliable modes of transportation that allow Willamette students to venture to and from campus.
• Through the SafeRide program, students can show their Willamette ID to request a ride via Lyft or Yellow Cab.
• Public transportation includes Cherriots, a bus network connecting Salem and the greater mid-Willamette Valley.
• With an Amtrak station just across the street from campus, students can easily take day trips to Portland, Eugene, or wherever they’d like to explore.
• We offer free bicycle registration which includes an identifying sticker and bike lock.
Find Your Place
VISIT US
Experience campus, meet current students, and learn about life in Salem. When you schedule a visit, you will have the opportunity to tour campus, meet with an admissions counselor, attend an information session, visit a class, and chat with current students. A campus visit offers you the chance to ask questions about our academic offerings, financial aid support, and student resources. You’ll also learn what makes Willamette a special place to spend your college years and we’ll even let you in on some campus lore so you’ll feel like part of the Willamette family from the moment you arrive (be sure to ask your tour guide why you shouldn’t step on the seal!).
Plus, when you visit campus it gives us the chance to get to know you. We are more than happy to chat about your goals and offer guidance about the admission process. During your campus visit, we can help you discover how Willamette can play a role in building the future you want.
Campus visits are available year-round. You also have the option to attend one of our events.
PROSPECTIVE STUDENT EVENTS
Cardinal & Gold Day (Fall)
Junior Preview Day (Spring)
Bearcat Day (Spring, for Admitted Students)
Access to Excellence (Fly-in Program for Admitted Students)
REDEEM YOUR TRAVEL VOUCHER
Prospective students are eligible to receive up to $400 toward travel expenses when they visit Willamette in their junior or senior year. Learn more about specifics and restrictions online.
For more information visit: go.willamette.edu/visit
“The merit-based scholarships at Willamette made it possible for me to afford this school and have some life-changing experiences because of the resources available to everyone.”
—Robbie
Daugherty ’22 double major in studio art and chemistry
Set Yourself Apart
When it comes to your application, we have the same goal: to ensure that you showcase your best self. We offer test-optional admission so you have the power to decide how to present your strongest application. We welcome any questions you have along the way and are ready to support you in this process.
AN ENDURING VALUE
A Willamette education is an investment in your future. We equip our graduates with the ability to think, collaborate, and present their ideas beyond the classroom, setting them up for success in the real world.
Tuition and fees: go.willamette.edu/tuition-info
All applicants are automatically considered for merit scholarships based on the strength of your application and preparation.
Competitive, talent, and interest-based scholarships are available through a separate application in the following areas:
Science Music Public Health STEM Theatre
We ask all students to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for need-based financial aid and eligible for a financial aid appeal. Art
APPLY TODAY
REQUIRED
Online application through the Common Application or Coalition on Scoir
School report and counselor recommendation
Official high school transcript OPTIONAL
Teacher recommendation Test scores
Connect with your admissions counselor to explore cost and financial aid. We are here to work with you to make a valuable education accessible and affordable.
Explore scholarships and need-based aid at: go.willamette.edu/scholarships
There is no application fee!
EARLY ACTION
Apply by Nov. 1 and receive an admission decision and scholarship offer by Dec. 31. You’ll also receive the Leaders Award, an additional $1,000 annual scholarship.
EARLY DECISION
Apply by Nov. 1 and receive an admission decision and scholarship offer by Dec. 31. Early Decision candidates will also receive the Leaders Award. Confirm your enrollment by Jan. 15. Early Decision is a binding admission plan.
REGULAR DECISION
Apply by Jan. 15 and receive an admission and aid decision by Mar. 1.
Consider Yourself Warmly Invited
Tour campus, talk to current students, explore our academic environment, and get to know our community.
TAKE
The natural environment particular to the Pacific Northwest, filled with sequoias and moss-covered stone. Brick facades that serve as a reminder of the generations of minds that have imagined what’s possible and gone on to shape our world, buildings where new ideas are cultivated. Soon the cherry blossoms will bloom. On the banks of the Mill Stream, you may pass the time between classes with a group of new friends or maybe you will find a quiet place to study. On rainy days, you might cozy up in the Bistro with a steaming cup to warm your hands. You will cross paths with people from all over the world who will inspire you to discover your purpose. This is where you will become the best version of yourself.
“One of the best parts of my job is welcoming visitors to campus and watching their eyes light up as they realize they’ve found a community that feels like home. When you visit, you’ll see and feel why Willamette’s close-knit community is so special.”
—Sue Corner ’90, Dean of Admissions
For more information visit: willamette.edu
EMAIL: BEARCAT@WILLAMETTE.EDU / CALL: 503-370-6303 / 844-BEARCAT (844-232-7228)