Standard WOU descriptions

The term “boilerplate” refers to a standard language template that can be used repeatedly without change. The options listed are to be copied and pasted into your document without alterations. Please select the paragraph that most closely matches the purpose of the communication you are creating.

General boilerplate. Suggested use: grant applications or cover letters

Western Oregon University is a mid-sized comprehensive university located in Monmouth. As the state’s oldest public university, WOU has offered a student-centered learning community for more than 160 years. Courses at WOU are taught exclusively by faculty members, which means every student has the opportunity for transformative education with personalized support. WOU celebrates accessibility with affordable tuition, inclusive admissions and a range of academic programs. The university has received national recognition for its service to first-generation college students, minority students and other underserved populations.

Program-focused boilerplate. Suggested use: Only when mentioning programs/athletics is warranted

Western Oregon University is a public, mid-sized university committed to supporting student success, providing a transformative education and strengthening communities. Located in Monmouth in the heart of Oregon’s Willamette Valley, WOU welcomes first-generation college students, international students and members of underserved populations. WOU is the state’s only NCAA Division II public university and focuses on championships as well as helping student-athletes leave with a degree. Western Oregon is nationally recognized as a campus of choice for teacher education, American Sign Language, gerontology and criminal justice programs.

No-stats boilerplate. Suggested use: letters and correspondence of a personal nature

Founded in 1856, Western Oregon University is the state’s oldest public university. The university has been nationally recognized for its student-centered approach and opportunities toward a transformative education. Among the values that WOU ascribes to is that every student, whether they are the first in their families to attend college, members of a minority group, international students or part of an underserved population, deserve the chance to build a future on the foundation of a college degree. Western Oregon University celebrates accessibility in all its forms because together we succeed.

Basic boilerplate. Suggested use: Press releases and other media communications

Western Oregon University, founded in 1856 and located in Monmouth, is the state’s oldest public university. With approximately 5,500 undergraduate and graduate students, WOU is a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution with nearly 80 percent of the student population being from Oregon. Approximately 25 percent of students are minorities, veterans or part of an underserved population. The university is known as Oregon’s campus of choice for those seeking a personal, supportive, student-centered learning community where every class is taught by faculty members and each student has access to diverse education opportunities. Together we succeed.