St Olaf College vs Reed College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences in academic focus between St. Olaf College and Reed College?

  St. Olaf College offers a broader liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies and pre-professional programs like nursing and education. Reed College, on the other hand, is known for its intensely academic and highly rigorous curriculum focused on the pure liberal arts, particularly in the humanities and sciences, with less emphasis on pre-professional training.

• How do the campus cultures compare at St. Olaf and Reed?

  St. Olaf has a reputation for being a friendly and welcoming community, often described as having a strong sense of community and a vibrant student life centered around campus activities and traditions. Reed College fosters a more individualistic and intellectual atmosphere, where academic pursuits and independent thinking are highly valued. Reed is known for its quirky traditions and a strong emphasis on intellectual debate and discussion.

• What are the key differences in the grading systems at St. Olaf and Reed?

  St. Olaf uses a traditional A-F grading system. Reed College employs a unique grading system where grades are recorded but not typically shared with students unless specifically requested. Reed emphasizes narrative evaluations from professors to provide more detailed feedback on student performance, fostering a learning environment less focused on grades and more on intellectual growth.

• How do the locations of St. Olaf and Reed College differ, and how does this impact student life?

  St. Olaf is located in Northfield, Minnesota, a small college town offering a close-knit community and a more traditional college experience. Reed College is situated in Portland, Oregon, a vibrant and progressive city providing students with access to a wide range of cultural, artistic, and professional opportunities. The urban setting of Reed offers a more diverse and independent lifestyle compared to the more contained environment of St. Olaf.

• What are the religious affiliations, if any, of St. Olaf and Reed College?

  St. Olaf College has a historical affiliation with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), although it welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds. Reed College is non-sectarian and has no religious affiliation.

• How do the student bodies at St. Olaf and Reed College compare in terms of size and diversity?

  St. Olaf College has a larger student body, typically around 3,000 students, and draws students from a wider range of geographic locations and backgrounds. Reed College has a smaller student body, usually around 1,400 students, and attracts a highly selective and intellectually driven group of students. While both institutions value diversity, Reed is known for its strong representation of students with unconventional interests and perspectives.

• What are the strengths of St. Olaf and Reed College in terms of specific academic departments or programs?

  St. Olaf is particularly strong in music, natural sciences (especially biology and chemistry), and international studies. Reed College is renowned for its programs in the humanities (literature, history, philosophy), mathematics, and physics. Both colleges offer strong liberal arts educations, but their areas of particular distinction differ.

• How do the costs of attending St. Olaf and Reed College compare?

  The cost of attendance at both St. Olaf and Reed College is relatively high, reflecting their commitment to providing a high-quality liberal arts education. However, the specific costs can vary depending on financial aid packages and other factors. It's best to consult the official websites of both colleges for the most up-to-date tuition and fee information and to explore their financial aid options.

• What are some common similarities between St. Olaf College and Reed College?

  Both St. Olaf and Reed College are highly respected liberal arts colleges that prioritize small class sizes, close interaction between students and faculty, and a commitment to intellectual inquiry. They both emphasize critical thinking, writing skills, and a broad-based education designed to prepare students for a variety of careers and graduate studies. Both institutions also foster a strong sense of community, although the nature of that community differs.

• What type of student would thrive at St. Olaf versus Reed College?

  A student who thrives at St. Olaf is often someone who enjoys a strong sense of community, values a well-rounded education with opportunities for pre-professional training, and appreciates a supportive and collaborative learning environment. A student who thrives at Reed College is typically highly self-motivated, intellectually curious, enjoys independent learning and rigorous academic challenges, and values a non-traditional and individualistic environment.