European Studies

The European Studies Program is a pedagogical community and research forum for students and scholars at the University of Oregon who are interested in Europe. This program combines the strengths of faculty in the humanities, social sciences, business, law, and science to study the current developments in Europe.
The minor in European studies allows undergraduates to incorporate, within any other major program, an increased international perspective in their work with a special focus on an understanding of Europe’s identity and role in the world.

A huge thank you to Portland real estate developer, philanthropist and UO alumnus Jordan Schnitzer and the Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation, for a landmark $25 million gift to CAS that will empower future global leaders and problem solvers! The School of Global Studies and Languages is now named the Schnitzer School of Global Studies and Languages, and we are truly excited to be a part of it!

Learn More about Schnitzer School

What You Can Do with a Minor in European Studies

Because Europe is so important economically, politically, and diplomatically, a minor in European studies gives students excellent qualifications to enter an international workforce. It is especially useful for careers in:

  • Government
  • Non-governmental organizations
  • Business
  • Teaching
  • Diplomacy
  • Journalism
  • Law
  • Academia
European Studies testimony from Caroline-Simone

How European Studies Enriches Your Undergrad Experience

“Being part of the European Studies program has immensely deepened my appreciation for experiencing different cultures, the difficulties and advantages of coalition building, and the prolific history of a continent that has shaped so much of our lives. This program has greatly enriched my undergraduate experience through the Model European Union competition, which prepared me to do a study abroad experience in London and gave me access to some of the most fascinating classes taught at the University of Oregon. I've always felt welcomed and encouraged by the faculty and my peers, and I could not be more grateful for them and the program.”

—Caroline Simone, political science and global studies double majors; European studies minor; class of 2024

Our Degree Program

The European studies minor is an interdisciplinary program. Students must complete 24 credits of coursework in addition to a paper or project on a European topic and two to three years of a European language other than English.

a person makes food in Greece

Live and Study in Europe

Strengthen your language and culture skills overseas. The University of Oregon offers a broad range of study abroad opportunities in Europe, from internships to exchange programs.

Seminar for Model European Union simulation at the University of Washington

Participate in Model EU

The European Studies Program supports and trains our annual delegation to the Model European Union simulation at the University of Washington. Team members are selected competitively each year (usually in December or January), based on knowledge of Europe and the EU. Team members work with UO faculty to prepare for the simulation and are given an expense-paid trip to Seattle (usually in April).

Participate in Model EU 

Scholarships and Funding

Students pursuing a minor or graduate specialization in European studies can apply for a variety of fellowships, programs, scholarships, and other opportunities to help fund their education.

Undergraduate Scholarships

Academic Support

Students in the European Studies Program can seek academic support, career counseling, and other advising services through Tykeson Hall or by consulting our program advisor. 

Undergraduate Advising

News and Events

After announcing a landmark $25 million commitment, Portland developer, philanthropist and alumnus Jordan Schnitzer shares his thoughts on living in an ever-globalizing world—and his hopes for the Schnitzer School of Global Studies and Languages.

All news »


UO Cinema Studies Alumni Gathering: Los Angeles
Aug17
UO Cinema Studies Alumni Gathering: Los Angeles Aug 17 Everson Royce Bar
Graduate Student Welcome Lunch and Resource Fair
Sep23
Graduate Student Welcome Lunch and Resource Fair Sep 23 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)
Grad Student & Postdoc Industry Recruitment Event
Oct23
Grad Student & Postdoc Industry Recruitment Event Oct 23
What is Research? (2026)
Apr23
What is Research? (2026) Apr 23 University of Oregon Portland
What is Research? (2026)
Apr24
What is Research? (2026) Apr 24 University of Oregon Portland
What is Research? (2026)
Apr25
What is Research? (2026) Apr 25 University of Oregon Portland

All events »