FOX 12 took a look at Western Oregon University and why a smaller college could have lower crime rates.

Nestled in the farmland and rolling hills outside of Salem, Ore., lies Western Oregon University, home to 5,000 students.

Whether it’s the location or something else, Western Oregon seems to have a fairly low crime rate.

In 2006, there were five burglaries, no sexual assaults and three people were arrested on charges of drug possession.

According to the Public Safety Department, there were only 33 thefts reported last year, down from 76 in 2005.

The Public Safety Department said the decrease could be due in part to a new education campaign launched last year. The department posted fliers in the University Center and on other parts of the campus, urging students to be aware of their belongings and surroundings.

“They feel like they’re at home, which we want them to do,” said a Public Safety Department representative. “But then they walk away from something and forget they’re not at home.”

While they take precautions, most students said, overall, smaller schools have their benefits.

Public Safety officials said there are phones on campus that connect students directly to their department.

Click here for Western Oregon University's Public Safety Report