<p>^Even if the religious classes are inclusive, they’re still religion classes–St. Olaf feels that Christianity is important enough for two classes’ worth of GEs. Compare to Amherst, Hamilton, Vassar, Brown, Wesleyan, Smith–all have virtually eliminated general education requirements altogether. Even for less radical curriculums, I’ve yet to come across a non-religious school that required religion courses (some, like Northwestern, do have a philosophy requirement).</p>
<p>St. Olaf wants diversity, but its student body is not very diverse. Not everyone is willing to “start” diversity.</p>
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<p>Could an atheist be happy at St. Olaf? Absolutely. Some certainly are. But I would put up a caution sign, and never recommend it without specific context.</p>