The newly established Wayne Morse Scholars Program will be accepting applications until Oct. 24 at 3 p.m.

This is the first year the program has been offered, and it is primarily aimed at University of Oregon sophomores and juniors with an interest in civic engagement.

The program is designed to offer opportunities for students to study public affairs and American politics from ethical and analytical perspectives. Students will be able to receive hands-on experiences through special seminars, internships and research and leadership training. They will also be part of discussions with government officials, political practitioners and visiting scholars. The program hopes to inspire future leaders.

Only 15-20 students per year will be selected. Qualifications are based on academic merit, service experience and interest in politics or public policy.

According to the website, the program was made possible largely due to the 2013-2014 grant from the Tom and Carol Williams Fund for Undergraduate Education.

Some highlights of the program include the following: a seminar on demographic dilemmas taught by political science professor and Wayne Morse Senior Faculty Fellow Dan Tichenor, discussions with various government officials, leadership and training workshops, a trip to Salem to observe the Oregon House, Senate, Supreme Court and other branches at work and meet state officials and staff.

Students chosen will be announced Nov. 5 with an orientation to follow on Nov. 15 from 4-6 p.m. The application for the program can be found here.