St. Olaf College
Northfield, Minnesota
About St. Olaf College
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1874, St. Olaf College is a 4-year college serving students in Northfield, Minnesota. With a tradition of academic excellence, St. Olaf College prepares graduates for success in Social Sciences, Visual & Performing Arts, Biology, and more.
A Diverse Community in Northfield
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. Campus housing options foster community and connection among students. With a 12:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
St. Olaf College is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $9,504, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This need-aware policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.
Research That Shapes the World
St. Olaf College emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.
Outcomes for St. Olaf College students
| Graduation rate (within 6 years) | 83% |
|---|---|
| Graduation rate (within 4 years) | 77% |
| First-year retention rate | 91% |
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $56,797 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $65,543 |
| Median debt at graduation | $26,000 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at St. Olaf College
| Total enrollment | 3,124 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 3,124 |
| International students | 10% |
| First-generation students | 13% |
What you can study at St. Olaf College
54 programs, most of them in these fields:
Foreign Languages (10)
Ancient/Classical Greek Language and Literature, Chinese Language and Literature, Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General, and more
Visual and Performing Arts (9)
Art History, Criticism and Conservation, Art/Art Studies, General, Dance, General, and more
Area Ethnic Cultural Gender Group Studies (7)
Asian Studies/Civilization, Ethnic Studies, Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies, Other, and more
Education (3)
Education, General, Music Teacher Education, Social Studies Teacher Education
Health Professions (3)
Exercise Science and Kinesiology, Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
Social Sciences (3)
Economics, General, Political Science and Government, General, Sociology and Anthropology
English Language and Literature (2)
Creative Writing, English Language and Literature, General
History (2)
Ancient Studies/Civilization, History, General
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