The courses they pursue are thematically linked to encourage the exploration of academic majors, and are designed to satisfy general education requiremnts. Recent FIGs have focused on architecture, business, medieval studies, English, and Environmental Studies. Returning students coordinate activities and serve as mentors to new students. Informational brochures and invitations are mailed in June, for those attending IntroDUCKtion, and in late July, for those arriving in September. Freshman Seminars are innovative courses developed to introduce new students to some of the outstanding faculty at the University of Oregon in a more personalized setting.
Class size is limited to twenty students.
Unlike more traditional lecture courses, Freshman Seminars emphasize active discussion and development of a sense of community. These courses encourage interaction between classmates and the open expression of ideas, helping new students develop confidence in their ability to participate in academic discussion while establishing new friendships with peers and faculty members. The Honors Track prepares outstanding freshmen for an honors program in their major field. There, they learn about the questions researchers are asking, and they receive information about career opportunities. Professional-school honors programs are available for students studying architecture, business, dance, education, fine and applied arts, journalism and communication, and music.