The Psychology Department at The University of Oregon
The University of Oregon and the Eugene Community
The University
The University of Oregon is a medium sized, state university that enrolls some 18,400 students. The University's 295-acre campus
is an arboretum of more than 500 species and more than 3,000 specimens of trees - an appropriate symbol for a state where beauty and economy are based on the forest.
The University is a member of the American Association of Universities and possesses strengths in a number of areas outside psychology that are of interest to psychologists. The Institute of Neuroscience, the Institute of Molecular Biology, and the Institute of Cognitive and Decision Sciences are internationally recognized as major research centers. Several other local research institutes enhance the atmosphere for psychological research. Applied developmental and clinical work are performed at the Child and Family Center, Oregon Social Learning Center and the Oregon Research Institute. Activities at Decision Research are relevant for both cognitive and social psychologists.
Eugene
With a population of about 133,460,
Eugene is large enough to have a full range of cultural and recreational opportunities but small enough to retain a friendly and open atmosphere. Eugene serves as the
county seat for Lane County and is the site of several federal, state, and local government agencies.
Located near the confluence of the Willamette and McKenzie rivers, Eugene is known for beauty and vitality, with fir-covered hills and nearby mountains. The University of Oregon's enthusiasm for track and field has permeated the region, making it a runner's paradise. The University's famous Hayward Field is the site of numerous competitive track events, many open to participants of all ability levels. Cultural and recreational opportunities include such annual activities as the Oregon Bach Festival and the Prefontaine Classic Track and Field Meet; annual state attractions include Ashland's Oregon Shakespeare Festival and the Portland Rose Festival. The city boasts a performing arts center, beautiful parks, superb running and cycling trails, and a mild climate throughout the year. Within an hour's drive, the Cascade Mountain Range offers mountain trails and lakes for outdoor recreation, including winter sports. At the coast, one hour to the west, are sand dunes, rugged beach walks, and out-of-the way camping. Even closer are several large lakes for water skiing and other sports. For a wider range of metropolitan services, the city of Portland is less than two hours to the north.