The HEP program at the University of Oregon has been in existence since 1967. It is a federally funded program under the US Department of Education. HEP is designed to provide assistance to individuals from migrant or seasonal farm worker backgrounds in obtaining the General Educational Development (GED) certificate.

ACHIEVING THE GED and PLACEMENT in college, training, or a better job are the PRIMARY GOALS of the program. Other goals which are equally important include the enhancement of skills in communication, job search skills, decision making, career awareness, and problem solving.