Saint Olaf College / General Education

Saint Olaf College (Northfield, Minnesota)

www.stolaf.edu

3,000 students

Evangelical Lutheran Church

Defining Statements:

An education committed to the liberal arts, rooted in the Christian gospel and incorporating a global perspective.

The Promise: St. Olaf students learn...

To think rigorously
To believe authentically
To act on their beliefs and values
To participate in an enduring community that emphasizes a global perspective

Organizational Principles:

The curriculum divides into three parts:

Foundation Studies help students develop fundamental skills and competenciesin writing, oral communication, second language, mathematical reasoning, and physical well-being that provide a solid base in the liberal arts.

Core Studies build knowledge and perspectives central to the liberal arts with a global perspective. Historical studies in Western culture, multicultural studies, artistic and literary studies, biblical and theological studies, studies in natural science, and studies in human behavior and society all contribute to a St. Olaf student's education. Courses meeting each requirement exist in many different departments and programs offered at St. Olaf. Each element of the core has a clear purpose, publicly accessible guidelines for course content, and specific learning goals.

The Integrative Studies course builds on previous experiences, including general education, electives, study abroad, and the major, and requires that students reflect on ethical issues associated with their intellectual interests.

Requirements for Graduation:

Foundation Writing ^*Foreign Language Oral Communication Mathematical reasoning Physical activity Fountation Courses	Number of Courses 1 3-4 1/4 1 1/2 5.75
Core Historical studies Multicultural studies Artistic and literacy studies Biblical and Theological studies Natural Science Human Behavior Core Courses	2 2 2 2 2 2 12
Integrative Studies Ethical Issues (upper level)	1
Total General Education	18.75
Minimum courses required for graduation General Education percent	35 54%-56%

^*4 other writing ocurses must be taken in any field

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General Education