Academic Freedom

Reason for Policy: 

This policy outlines the University’s position regarding academic freedom.

Entities Affected by this Policy: 

All faculty and staff at the university.

Responsible Office: 

For questions about this policy, please contact the Office of the Provost at 541-346-3486.

Enactment & Revision History: 

02 September 2015 - Technical revisions enacted by the university secretary

01 July 2014 - Became a University of Oregon Policy by operation of law

Former Oregon Administrative Rule Chapter 580 Division 22, Section 0005

Policy: 

(1) All teachers in the University of Oregon (University) are entitled to freedom in the classroom in discussing subjects, but they should be careful not to introduce into their teaching controversial matter that has no relation to the subject.

(2) As a matter of policy the University neither attempts to control, sway nor limit the personal opinion or expression of that opinion of any person on the faculty or otherwise on the University’s payroll. In the exercise of this freedom of expression, faculty members should manifest appropriate restraint, should show respect for the opinions of others, and should make every effort to indicate that they do not speak on behalf of the University.

Chapter/Volume: 
Original Source: 
Oregon Administrative Rule