St. Olaf College

St. Olaf is a leader among liberal arts colleges in documenting the outcomes of the educational experience described in its mission. We gather and share evidence that students accomplish the learning goals the college has established, such as critic goals the college has established, such as critical thinking, effective communication and collaboration, the ability to integrate and apply knowledge, and the capacity for thoughtful reflection on religious belief and ethical convictions. We also track our success in helping students to discern their vocations — what they are called to do — and then to translate their callings into careers and commitments characterized by professional accomplishment, financial independence, and personal fulfillment. Within one year of their commencement, 94% of St. Olaf graduates report that they are employed, pursuing graduate education, or engaged in full-time service work. Click on the links below to learn more about the educational, professional, and personal outcomes of a St. Olaf education. St. Olaf graduates overwhelmingly describe their professional work as intellectually stimulating, personally rewarding, and supported by the skills they gained in their undergraduate education. Many St. Olaf graduates pursue advanced degrees, a prerequisite for professional accomplishment in many fields, and affirm that the college prepared them well for the rigors of graduate education. Graduates of the college exercise leadership roles in all walks of life.Within five years of their graduation, a large majority of St. Olaf alumni report a level of compensation that supports their desired lifestyle. St. Olaf student indebtedness is lower than the statewide average. Less than 1% of St. Olaf graduates default on their student loans, compared to a national default rate of 11%. St. Olaf College challenges students to excel in the liberal arts, examine faith and values, and explore meaningful vocation in an inclusive, globally engaged community nourished by Lutheran tradition. Founded in 1874 by Norwegian Lutheran immigrants, St. Olaf is a nationally ranked liberal arts college of the ELCA located in Northfield, Minnesota. A St. Olaf education embraces the entire undergraduate experience. Students learn not only in the classroom, but also in residence halls, rehearsal rooms, practice fields, worship services, student employment, and community organizations. These diverse learning opportunities work together to help students achieve a comprehensive set of college-wide learning goals. ...view more