- Year or semester exchanges
- Bachelor/undergraduate liberal arts
- Great for politics, environmental science, and American studies students
- TOEFL score of 560(220 CBT, 83 iBT) is required; equivalent Institutional TOEFL, IELTS, or SAT scores also accepted!
- Located in the capitol city of the state, Salem, Oregon (pop. 141,000). In fact, the university is located next to the capitol building offering excellent opportunities for students interested in politics and government
- Salem is about an hours drive from the beach, the mountains, and two major cities (Portland to the north, Eugene to the south). Seattle, Washington is 4 hours away, and a day's drive will take you to San Francisco, CA. The city receives about 33 inches of rain per year with the majority falling between the months November and March.
- Take an online campus tour
- Check out the incredible photo gallery! You'll find it under the link to the Pacific Northwest.
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You can drive to the Oregon Coast in one hour. |
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You can cruise to Portland in 50 minutes. |
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You can hit the slopes for skiing in two hours. |
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You can hike under four waterfalls just 30 miles from campus. |
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You can walk to downtown Salem in 5 minutes. |
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You can sprint to the steps of the state Capitol in five seconds. |
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You can join any of the 100 student groups on campus. |
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You can actually drink water from the tap. |
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The ISEP Coordinators and staff are great! |
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You can’t appreciate the beauty of Willamette unless you go! |
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Founded in 1842, Willamette University is the first university in the west. When Willamette was founded the cities of Portland, Seattle and Tacoma did not exist. Thus the University is closely associated with the beginning of law and government in this vast region, which now comprises Oregon, Washington, Idaho and parts of Montana and Wyoming. It educated many of the Northwest's first leaders, artists and business people. Not only was Willamette the first University in the West, but it established the first law school (1883) and the first school of medicine (1866) in the Pacific Northwest, which later merged with the medical school of the University of Oregon.
- Willamette was one of the earliest coeducational institutions in the United States, and its first graduate was a woman. Women were attending the School of Medicine as early as 1877.
- Willamette University prides itself on the close contact between students and faculty. In the undergraduate program, the ratio of students to faculty is 11 to 1. The percentage of classes with fewer than 20 students is 65%. Willamette challenges its students to broaden their college experience beyond the classroom. Activities such as study abroad, one-on-one research with a faculty member, debate tournaments in Eastern Europe and choir performances in South Africa all contribute to the liberal arts education offered at Willamette University.
- The Willamette University motto, "Not unto ourselves alone are we born," captures the essence of this distinguished university. It speaks to our commitment to community service, to the extraordinary collaboration between faculty and students, and to the tradition of service and civic engagement that is typical of our alumni. Willamette University has earned a national reputation for its academic standards and exemplary citizenship, values that have defined the culture of this campus for more than 160 years. Each year, students volunteer more than 10,000 hours on a variety of projects including building homes for Habitat for Humanity, feeding and clothing the homeless and participating in unique Take -A-Break Alternative Spring Breaks.
- Willamette is not satisfied to conceive of "sustainability" as merely an ecological concept. Without marginalizing the significance of achieving ecological sustainability, the Willamette community is dedicated to advancing a more just society, both now and for future generations. Thus, Willamette University's sustainability initiative, as outlined by President Lee Pelton, incorporates the "four Es" of sustainability: Equity, Environment, Economics, and Education.
- Find out more about "living our motto"
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- Minimum TOEFL score of 550 (213 CBT) is required for placement. Institutional TOEFL, and equivalent IELTS, SAT II (ELPT) or SAT Verbal scores are also accepted as proof of English-language proficiency. Some ESL classes may be available.
- Fields of study of interest to ISEP students: politics, environmental science, and American studies.
- Other popular majors at Willamette are economics, biology, English, Spanish, history, and psychology. See the list of departments (link on left) for complete academic offerings.
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Graduate courses are not available to ISEP students unless you have 1)earned the equivalent of a bache lor's degree and 2)satisfied the entrance requirements (including relevant exams) for graduate admission to either the College of Law, School of Education, or Graduate School of Management.
- The longest standing program in the Pacific Northwest, Willamette University provides students unparalleled access to hands-on experience in the field and policy-making arenas.
- The Environmental and Earth Sciences Department offers a comprehensive study of the natural and social sciences necessary for understanding human impact on the natural world. Our majors gain competence in both the natural and social sciences, enabling them to become contributing members of society. We emphasize critical thinking, persuasive and informed writing, competency in research and public speaking skills.
- Students majoring in environmental and earth sciences at Willamette University benefit from excellent faculty and challenging courses. Through a combination of classroom, field, lab, study abroad, research, and internship opportunities, our majors are well-suited to address a wide variety of environmental issues as teachers, consultants, researchers, volunteers and citizens.
- The American Studies Program movement is an expression of lively interest and curiosity in things American. American Studies Program attempts to set American culture within the context of Western Civilization and to establish a broad, interdisciplinary perspective on American culture and society. This interdisciplinary department offers great courses for students studying “American Studies” at their home institutions abroad.
- American Ethnic Studies is a relatively new academic department which complements American Studies at Willamette University. This is an interdisciplinary program focusing on the rich cultural heritage of peoples of color in the United States as well as the body of scholarship and theory that has emerged around global and national issues of race and ethnicity. One focus of the program is the study of the broad historical, social, cultural traditions, and dynamics of race and ethnicity in America as a foundation for the exploration of more specialized topics.
- College offerings cover a broad range of topics, primarily in the humanities, but also in contemporary areas of social, political and economic development. These include history, anthropology, art history, rhetoric and communications, politics, religion, sociology, and literature. A major focus of the program is the comparative experiences of various communities of color within the traditional Ethnic Studies categories: American Indians/Alaska Natives, Asian Americans, African Americans, Latinos/Latinas.
- Given the close proximity to the Oregon state capitol and various government offices, Willamette University students have unique access to opportunities related to study in Politics (as well as Economics, International Studies, and other academic departments). Many students take advantage of our vibrant internship program at the Capitol by working in the Legislature or the Governor's Office, or with a state agency or lobbyist.
- The Politics Department at Willamette University challenges students to develop robust theoretical and practical understandings of the political world. Students in these courses learn to read carefully, research effectively, speak competently, think critically, and write persuasively about the important political and socio-economic controversies that surround us. They are encouraged to think broadly yet pursue specific questions, issues and areas.
- In political theory courses, students debate the perennial questions: "What is the purpose of politics?" "What is justice?" "What is the good life?" and reflect on more than two millennia of answers stretching from Homer to Homer Simpson. In American politics courses, students study environmental and welfare policies, the initiative and referendum process, constitutional law, the presidency, political parties, and elections. In global politics courses, students focus on Europe, Asia and Latin America, on topical issues such as the processes of democratization, economic development, globalization, revolution and war, and on national foreign policy regarding diplomacy, peace, and military security.
Technology
Students have access to two 24-hour campus computer labs as well as other hour specific labs on campus. WU also offers assistance to students so that they can hook into the WU network while on campus. All students are given a free email account and have free access to printing in WU computer labs.
Writing Center
Willamette University is a school that emphasizes writing across disciplines, so students who come here should expect to write papers in most of their classes. There is a campus Writing Center to assist students at any stage, from blank page to almost finished draft.
Quick Links
List of Departments
Course Descriptions
Schedule of Classes
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Student Life
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International student orientation
- We meet students at the airport on two designated days, and then we run a 2-day orientation program that includes information as well as social opportunities.
- In the fall, exchange students are included in the general “International Student Orientation” which occurs about one week before classes begin.
- We have volunteer peer advisors (returning study abroad students and experienced international students) who help students get settled during this program.
- After the Fall “International Student Orientation,” exchange students are included in a general university-wide orientation for new Willamette University students. This “Opening Days” period lasts 5 days (including a weekend) and ends just before classes begin.
- During winter vacation, all residence halls close on campus, so students who begin their exchanges in spring are only able to arrive 2 days before classes begin. As a result, students go through an abbreviated orientation.
Housing and meals
- Students live in a shared room on campus, usually with one or two roommates. Students will be asked to complete a housing preference form listing their top three choices for housing. For further details about options, see the Residence Life website.
- Although the majority of the campus is wireless, this is not the case in all residence halls. Students who bring a laptop are able to connect to the university server through connections (ResNet - Residential Network) in their residence halls.
- On our campus, the meal plan includes a number of "all you can eat meals" and then students have a point balance to use on "à la carte" items at other meals. Students can eat in one of three dining halls, or use their meal plans at an on campus café or small shop.
Sports and Activities
- All Willamette University students have access to the equipment and facilities of the Sparks Center. It includes a gym, swimming pool, and facilities for a variety of athletic pursuits. In addition to varsity sports, the WU community participates in intramural sports for casual competition. International students have especially enjoyed playing intramural soccer, volleyball, and flag football. .
- NCAA men's sports: Baseball, basketball, crew, cross country, football, golf, soccer, swimming, tennis, track & field
- NCAA women's sports: Basketball, crew, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track & field, volleyball
- Intramural athletics: 20 tournament sports and nine league sports
- Number of formal music ensembles: 13
- Number of informal music ensembles at the Bistro: Too many to count
- Number of clubs and organizations: 114 and growing.
Health and Wellness
Students are encouraged to use the Bishop Wellness Center. Bishop provides health, counseling, and disability accommodation services. The Bishop center is open during regular office hours, but Willamette University is also near to an off-campus Urgent Care Center and the Salem Hospital. Additionally, Campus Safety is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. WU also employs a staff (WEMS - Willamette Emergency Medical Service) who are trained to provide quick response emergency medical care during evening and weekend hours.
Life on Campus
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In addition to the three dining halls, the campus also boasts a student-run coffee shop, the Bistro. Located in the student center, this is a popular place to meet other students and faculty, to hang out, or to get a good cup of coffee or a cookie in between classes. Open late, it also provides opportunities for students to share poetry, opinions, and musical talent through Open Mic” nights.
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 “I came to Willamette as an 'international student'. After living here for half a year not only among Americans but also among other fascinating people from all over the world, I really consider myself 'international'! I love my classes at Willamette and it is a great feeling to see how my English is improving here from day to day!" - Dominik Mauer, ISEP Student from Germany |
“I liked the fact that my classes were so small. It really gave me the opportunity to get to know my professors as well as the other students.
Living on campus is fun. There are always a lot of activities going on whether it's sports, social events or just drinking a cup of coffee in the Bistro with your friends while studying. Being on the cheerleading squad has been a great experience for me where I get to combine exercise, dancing, watching sports and hanging out with friends." - Sini Tinfors, ISEP Student from Sweden |
What was the most surprising thing about studying in the U.S. or at Willamette University? The classes are not lectures as such but rather discussion sessions. That is pretty interesting because students lead the course and they have their word to say. What did you like about WU? What is different from your home school? I like the people here. They are so friendly. I have met so many people, some of them have become friends and the faculty is very close to its students. The amount of course choices is outstanding. That is very different from my home university, because we do not have that many choices. What will be your best memory of studying at Willamette University? People that I have met. If you had to recommend WU to your friend, what would you say? It is a good institution. People are very nice and there to help you. And it is on the West coast so you can easily go to California. What was the funniest thing that happened to you while here at WU? It is not exactly a funny thing. But I will just say that in my Residence Hall, the RAs have organized so many things to get the community together, that is pretty cool and lots of fun. - Pierre Cros , ISEP Student from France |
What was the most surprising thing about studying in the U.S. or at Willamette University? Well, "surprising" may be the wrong expression, but I was overwhelmed by the warm welcome all the international students received. It definitely helps you to adjust when you know that there are people around, showing you the first steps into the "new world". I still have contact with most of my peer advisors/opening days leaders. Some of them became really good friends. In your case, why did you decide to do a second semester (instead of the original one)? Time goes by too fast...one semester is too short. The moment you feel comfortable in your new environment you start to realize that you have to leave soon. As it was no problem to extend, I seized the opportunity. And I did not regret it (yet ;-) What will be your best memory of studying at Willamette University? The community, definitely. And, of course, the high quality of classes. If you had to recommend WU to your friend, what would you say? Don't even think about it, just go there! I can't imagine that someone will not broaden his/her horizon during a year in the US. It can only be an advantage for the personal development! What was the funniest thing that happened to you while here at WU? Oh, that should probably not be published here...no, seriously: There have been so many funny and interesting things going on, it's hard to pin it down to a single experience. Let's try it the other way. What was the least fun thing to do...hmmm, I would say to put the garbage out. And I think THIS is something everyone can handle ;-)... - Rudy Riedlsperger , ISEP Student from Austria |
What was your housing like? My apartment was really comfortable, old style, but really nice. My roommate was a good person to live with. Any comments about the ISEP Coordinators? They are extremely professional and prepared. They treated us like friends not just like 'customers'. I would give them an A + without doubts. What classes would you recommend? American Ethnic Studies - Prof. Emily Drew Religions of Asia - Prof. Zhou. What did you do at Willamette? Sports, international student club, excursions, traveled, and went to movies organized by students on campus. Best part of the experience? Getting to know people from all over the world. I made really good friends through this experience. Many friends that I've met who are going to be a constant part of my life thanks to ISEP. - Lucia Lucarini, ISEP Student from Italy |
About Salem, Oregon
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- Salem, OR is a city of about 140,000 people, and is the state capital.
- Salem is located about an hours drive from the beach, the mountains, and two major cities (Portland to the north, Eugene to the south).
- Seattle, Washington is 4 hours away, and a day’s drive will take you to San Francisco, CA.
Nightlife
- There are four movie theatres, including the Salem Cinema which highlights independent and foreign films.
- There are a variety of restaurants, but limited bar and club life.
- Willamette University provides many free concerts, movies, and events on campus to entertain students.
Cultural Activities
- The Hallie Ford Museum of Art is located on the campus of Willamette University.
- Willamette University is host to a number of musical performances, including the Salem Chamber Orchestra and the Oregon Symphony
- In addition to campus theatre presentations, Salem is also the home to the The Pentacle Theatre
- Salem is also known for two summer festivals, World Beat and the Salem Art Festival
- Willamette University is located directly across the street from the Oregon State Capitol. It is also across the street from the historic Mission Mill museum.
The Great Outdoors
- Salem, Oregon is about one hour from the beach, the mountains, and two major cities (Portland to the north, Eugene to the south).
- Campus is located about 40 minutes from Silver Creek Falls which is popular for hiking and picnics.Located a little further from Salem (must go by car) are Multnomah Falls and Crater Lake.
- With the Willamette River flowing through the city, there are many opportunities for water sports - from water-skiing to kayaking and canoeing to fishing for trout and salmon.
- For wine enthusiasts, there are a variety of vineyards nearby.
Local tourism websites
City Chamber of Commerce