Every class and lab is taught directly by a professor, and 84 percent of those professors hold either doctorates or the highest degrees in their fields. In addition to their academic qualifications, faculty here are primarily teachers, not researchers. They are mentors and friends who support and challenge students. St. Olaf College has an extensive international and off-campus studies program that sends over 500 students abroad every year. Faculty and students have a mutual understanding that life extends beyond St. Olaf and that it is important to understand the variety of cultures in our world.
Students come back with new perspectives on how to view life and how to make decisions.
Students are also encouraged to pursue independent study and research opportunities while overseas and here on the Hill. A large percentage of St. Olaf graduates continue their education in American's best graduate and professional schools. Many St. Olaf graduates enter university programs in medicine, law, the fine arts, business and manageme nt, and government and public policy, as well as research programs in technologies not dreamed of a decade ago. Other graduates embrace the life and mission of the Church, teaching, and careers in international service, outreach, and travel.