University Seminar is an academic first-year experience for students entering SOU. This three-term sequence introduces students to key foundational skills that help them develop as researchers, critical thinkers, and communicators-the foundation strands of University Studies. Students have an opportunity to select a sequence designed around a theme relevant to contemporary issues and events. Usually, students remain with the same instructor and classmates for all three terms.

Enrollment in University Seminar is required of all freshmen who have not completed the equivalent of both WR 121 and WR 122 . Successful completion of all three terms of University Seminar is equivalent to a full year of writing and a course in oral communication.

Through a structured sequence of writing experiences, students progress beyond unsupported assertion to reasoned argumentation and dialogue. Discussion, presentation, and small-group activities are also emphasized. In comparing the University Seminar with traditional communication and writing courses, the following guidelines may be useful: (1) successful completion of USEM 101    with a grade of C- or better is equivalent to 3 credits of introductory writing and 1 credit of communication; (2) successful completion of USEM 102  with a grade of C- or better is equivalent to 3 credits of academic writing and 1 credit of communication; (3) successful completion of USEM 103  with a grade of C- or better is equivalent to 3 credits of academic writing and 1 credit of communication. Only upon completion of the whole sequence do students receive the equivalent of 12 credits in writing and communication.

*The University Seminar administers the lower division WR 122  and UGS 122  course. In rare cases, students may need to complete their University Studies written and oral communication requirement through one or more of those courses. Students should contact the University Seminar Office in the Division of Undergraduate Studies (Computing Services second floor) or call 541-552-6260.

Courses

• USEM 100 - Transition to College Writing
• USEM 101 - University Seminar
• USEM 102 - University Seminar
• USEM 103 - University Seminar
• USEM 199 - Special Studies
• USEM 409 - Advanced Practicum

• WR 121 - English Composition - I
• WR 122 - English Composition

The following courses are offered to students who are interested in working as peer tutors in the SOU Writing Center. USEM 200 – The Writing Center in Theory and Practice (2 credits) – is required of all Writing Center tutors. USEM 209 – Practicum: Advanced Writing Center Theory and Practice (2 credits) – is recommended for all Writing Center tutors.

• USEM 200 - The Writing Center in Theory and Practice
• USEM 209 - Practicum