Carroll College
Acceptance rate
70.9%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$41,484
$53,032 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,112
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
54.7%
4-year; 6-year rate 70.1%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Carroll College, located in Helena, Montana, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong academic programs and commitment to the holistic development of its students. Founded in 1909, the college is affiliated with the Catholic Church, which influences its values and educational approach. The campus is situated in a picturesque setting, surrounded by the beautiful Rocky Mountains, providing students with a serene and inspiring environment conducive to learning. The college's motto, "The Mind is a Gift, Use it Well," reflects its dedication to fostering intellectual growth and encouraging students to think critically while engaging with ethical and moral issues.
Carroll College offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across various disciplines, with a particular emphasis on nursing, business, and liberal arts. The faculty is composed of highly qualified and dedicated educators who prioritize student engagement and mentorship, ensuring that students receive personalized attention and support. The college also boasts impressive facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories, modern classrooms, and a vibrant campus center that promotes community and collaboration among students. Beyond academics, Carroll College encourages a rich campus life, with numerous student organizations, athletic teams, and cultural events that foster a strong sense of community and belonging. With a focus on service and leadership, graduates of Carroll College are well-prepared for their future careers, making significant contributions to society, often finding employment in diverse fields shortly after graduation.
Analysis of Key Trends in Carroll College Data
Carroll College, a private institution, has shown notable trends in various metrics over the years. One of the most significant changes has been in tuition fees. From 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition has risen from approximately $27,914 to $40,352, reflecting an increase of over 44%. This sharp rise is indicative of the broader trend of increasing college costs, which has raised concerns about affordability and accessibility for prospective students.
In terms of student enrollment, the number of undergraduate students has seen a decline, dropping from 1,463 in 2013 to 1,125 in 2023, with a particularly steep decline noted from 2019 to 2021. This decrease could be associated with rising tuition costs, which may deter potential students from enrolling, as well as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on higher education.
Furthermore, the graduation rates have fluctuated, with the on-time graduation rate hovering around 48.5% in recent years. This stability suggests a consistent challenge for students in completing their degrees within the expected timeframe. Lower graduation rates can impact a college’s reputation and future enrollment, as prospective students often consider graduation success when choosing an institution.
Retention rates have also been a point of interest, with a slight decline from 86.3% in 2013 to around 78.2% in 2023. Retention is critical for student success and institutional stability, and the downward trend may reflect student dissatisfaction or external pressures affecting their ability to continue their studies.
Overall, while Carroll College has maintained some stability in its educational offerings, the rising tuition costs coupled with declining enrollment and retention rates raises important questions about the institution's future strategies to attract and retain students in an increasingly competitive educational landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Spokane, about 260 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Spokane International Airport (GEG), about 270 mi
- Also known as
- Carroll Montana, CC
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Dr. Jennifer Glowienka (Co-President)
- Phone
- 4064474300
- Address
- 1601 N Benton Ave, Helena, MT 59625-0002
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 67.2%, women 69.9%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Carroll College
The admission data from Carroll College over the years reveals several noteworthy trends. Starting from 2009, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have shown a fluctuating pattern. Initially, the male acceptance rate was approximately 75.4%, while the female rate was slightly higher at about 76.9%. However, the years that followed, particularly around 2013 to 2015, witnessed a significant decline in acceptance rates, hitting a low of about 51.2% for males and 54.1% for females in 2014.
This period of declining acceptance rates coincides with an increase in the number of applicants, suggesting that the college may have been experiencing heightened competition. For instance, in 2013, the number of denied applications surged to 940, indicating a challenging admissions landscape.
Interestingly, from 2021 onwards, the acceptance rates began to rebound, with male acceptance reaching 81.3% and female acceptance at 85.7% in 2022. This recovery suggests a strategic shift in the college's admissions policy, potentially aimed at attracting a diverse student body amidst a national trend of declining college enrollments post-pandemic.
Furthermore, the number of enrolled students remained relatively stable, with a slight decrease in 2023 compared to previous years, even as denial rates appeared to stabilize. This data reflects the ongoing challenges faced by colleges in maintaining enrollment numbers while balancing acceptance rates. Overall, the trends at Carroll College highlight the evolving dynamics of college admissions and the impact of external factors on applicant decisions.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 21% submitted SAT, 43% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at Carroll College
The data from Carroll College over the years reflects significant trends in standardized test scores and the number of students submitting these scores. Notably, while the acceptance of SAT scores has seen fluctuations in the number of submissions, the average scores have demonstrated a gradual increase, particularly in the reading and math sections. For instance, the 25th percentile scores in reading and math rose from 490 in 2007 to 610 by 2023, indicating a steady improvement in the academic preparedness of applicants.
Interestingly, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has decreased dramatically, with only 2% submitting scores in 2023. This shift may suggest a broader trend in higher education where colleges are moving toward test-optional policies, reflecting a growing recognition of the multifaceted nature of student potential beyond standardized testing. The decrease in submission rates could also point to a changing demographic of applicants who may prioritize other aspects of their applications, such as personal essays or extracurricular achievements.
Moreover, the ACT scores show a similar trend, with the 25th percentile rising over the years, indicating that students are increasingly achieving higher scores. However, the overall number of submissions for both tests has been declining, which could affect future admissions strategies at Carroll College.
In an era where the landscape of college admissions is rapidly evolving, Carroll College's data underscores the importance of adaptability in response to changing applicant profiles and testing policies. As institutions increasingly embrace holistic admissions processes, the emphasis on diverse methods of assessing student capability will likely continue to grow.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
1,854 applicants in 2025, 70.9% admitted
1,315 admitted 539 not admitted Yield 21.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Social Work · Master's29 (0% international)
- Accounting · Master's2 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Carroll College for 2023
The graduation data from Carroll College in 2023 reveals several interesting trends across various fields of study. The healthcare sector stands out significantly, with Registered Nursing producing the highest number of graduates at 60. This reflects a growing demand for healthcare professionals, particularly in the wake of recent global health crises highlighting the importance of robust healthcare systems.
In addition to nursing, other health-related programs, such as Health Services and Public Health Education, also report notable graduation numbers, indicating a strong emphasis on health sciences at the institution. This aligns with broader trends in the education sector, where health-related fields are increasingly prioritized due to their societal relevance.
On the other hand, the business and management fields also show promise, with Business Administration graduating 26 students, although the presence of international students is minimal. This could suggest a need for more outreach to attract diverse global talent, especially as businesses become more interconnected.
Interestingly, the fields of Computer Science and Engineering appear underrepresented, with comparatively low graduation figures. In today's technology-driven world, this could indicate a missed opportunity for students, considering the high demand for tech professionals.
Overall, while Carroll College excels in healthcare education, it may benefit from diversifying its offerings and attracting more international students in other high-demand fields to enhance its academic landscape and better prepare graduates for a competitive job market.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Public Health Education and Promotion. | - | ||
| Animal-Assisted Therapy. | $38,833 | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $81,315 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Finance, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $27,270 | ||
| Molecular Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | ||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | - | ||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | - | ||
| Social Studies Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Relations and Affairs. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineering, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Systems Analysis/Analyst. | - | ||
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - | ||
| Christian Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | ||
| Mathematics and Statistics, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Writing, General. | - | ||
| General Literature. | - |
Students
1,156 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 42:58 · Freshman retention 82.1%
- Continuing undergraduates 759
- First-year undergraduates 284
- Graduate students 44
- Transfers and others 69
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,112)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Carroll College in 2023
The student composition at Carroll College in 2023 reflects a diverse and evolving academic environment. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 296, with a notable female representation of 57.4%, indicating a welcoming atmosphere for women in higher education. Meanwhile, undergraduate juniors, who number 768, exhibit a slightly lower female ratio of 60.9%, but still highlight women's significant presence in the college community.
In terms of transfer students, there are 44 individuals, with a gender ratio that closely mirrors the freshmen, as 56.8% are female. This consistency in gender representation across various student categories showcases an inclusive approach to education, appealing to both male and female students.
Graduate students at Carroll College are fewer in number at 43, with a strikingly high female ratio of 79.1%. This suggests that the college may be particularly attractive to women pursuing advanced degrees, a trend that aligns with broader national statistics showing increasing female enrollment in graduate programs.
The data also indicates a substantial representation of White students across all categories, with 235 freshmen, 621 juniors, 30 transfer students, and 16 graduate students identifying as White. This predominance raises questions about the diversity and inclusion strategies in place, as it is essential for institutions to ensure they not only attract a diverse student body but also retain them through supportive measures.
Overall, Carroll College's demographic data for 2023 points toward a growing female presence in both undergraduate and graduate programs, while underlining the importance of addressing diversity within the student population to foster a more inclusive educational environment.
Age Distribution Among Students at Carroll College
The age composition of students at Carroll College reveals interesting trends that reflect broader societal patterns in higher education. The data shows a significant concentration of students in the traditional college-age range of 18-24 years. Specifically, 54% of undergraduates are aged between 18 and 21, highlighting that the college continues to attract a youthful demographic.
Interestingly, the college has a notable gender disparity among undergraduates: for every male undergraduate, there are approximately 1.6 female undergraduates in the 18-19 age group, and this ratio remains consistent in the 20-21 age group. This trend is reflective of a national pattern wherein female enrollment in colleges has been outpacing male enrollment in recent years. As reported by the National Center for Education Statistics, women are earning a higher percentage of degrees compared to men, which may contribute to the gender dynamics observed at Carroll College.
Moreover, the data indicates a gradual decline in student numbers as age increases, with very few students over the age of 30. The presence of non-traditional students, particularly those aged 30-34, is minimal, suggesting that Carroll may be primarily appealing to younger individuals or those who have recently transitioned from high school to higher education.
In summary, the age distribution at Carroll College reflects trends seen in many institutions across the United States, indicating a strong presence of traditional-age students, particularly among female undergraduates. This demographic insight can help the college tailor its programs and services to meet the needs of its diverse student body.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
0 in 2025 · 1.3% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2019
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Carroll College
The data on international student enrollment at Carroll College over the years reveals a concerning trend. The number of undergraduate international students has fluctuated significantly, starting from 25 students in 2004, peaking at 26 students in 2014, and then showing a marked decline in more recent years. By 2022, the number dropped to just 3, which corresponds to a mere 0.27% of the total undergraduate population. This is alarming as it reflects a broader trend in many U.S. colleges where international enrollments are declining due to various factors including immigration policies, changing perceptions of studying in the U.S., and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Graduate student enrollment data presents a slightly different picture, with a noticeable increase in the number of international students over the years, reaching 43 students by 2023. However, the overall percentage remains unspecified, highlighting a lack of data transparency that can impact prospective students' decisions.
The decline in undergraduate international student enrollment at Carroll College could have repercussions for the institution's cultural diversity and financial health, as international students often contribute significantly to tuition revenue. Furthermore, the reduced representation of international students may limit the global perspectives and experiences that enrich the academic environment.
In light of these trends, it is crucial for Carroll College to re-evaluate its recruitment strategies and support systems for international students, ensuring that it remains an attractive destination for global talent in higher education.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$53,032
- Undergraduate tuition
- $41,484
- Room and board
- $11,548
- Graduate tuition
- $17,912
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 35% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 25%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$58.1M
Expenses$45.3M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Frontier Conference
Frontier Conference: football, basketball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 87 | 108 |
| Football | 125 | - |
| Soccer | 33 | 25 |
| Golf | 19 | 14 |
| Basketball | 13 | 15 |
| Volleyball | - | 28 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 88 | 99 |
| Football | 125 | - |
| Soccer | 31 | 24 |
| Basketball | 17 | 25 |
| Volleyball | - | 27 |
| Golf | 11 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 71 | 126 |
| Football | 109 | - |
| Soccer | 26 | 25 |
| Basketball | 15 | 27 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Volleyball | - | 23 |
| Golf | 6 | 6 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of IdahoMoscow · 236.0 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Washington State UniversityPullman · 242.8 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Gonzaga UniversitySpokane · 262.4 mi
U.S. News #90
-
Boise State UniversityBoise · 289.9 mi
U.S. News #299
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions surrounding Carroll College:
-
University of Idaho - Ranked 185 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a diverse range of programs and is known for its strong emphasis on research.
-
Washington State University - With a rank of 178, this comprehensive university is recognized for its vibrant campus life and extensive academic offerings.
-
Gonzaga University - A well-regarded comprehensive university, ranked 93rd in the nation, Gonzaga is known for its strong liberal arts education and commitment to community service.
-
Whitman College - This liberal arts college, ranked 46th, offers a unique educational experience with a focus on critical thinking and personal growth.
-
University of Utah - Ranked 115, this comprehensive university is celebrated for its research initiatives and diverse educational opportunities.
-
Brigham Young University - Also ranked 115, BYU is known for its commitment to academic rigor and community values, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
University of Washington-Seattle Campus - With an impressive rank of 40, this comprehensive university is renowned for its research output and diverse student body.
-
Reed College - Ranked 67, this liberal arts college is known for its rigorous academics and emphasis on independent scholarship.
-
Lewis & Clark College - With a rank of 93, this liberal arts college is recognized for its commitment to environmental sustainability and social justice.
These institutions provide a wide array of academic programs and opportunities for students in the region surrounding Carroll College.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Carroll College
The crime statistics for Carroll College over the past decade reveal notable trends in campus safety. From 2013 to 2023, there has been a significant fluctuation in the average crime rate per 1,000 students. For instance, the crime rate surged from 6.70 in 2013 to a peak of 27.54 in 2017, indicating a serious concern regarding safety during that period. This spike could be attributed to various factors, such as increased awareness of crime reporting or a rise in specific incidents.
Interestingly, while there were fluctuations, the years following the peak showed a decline, with the crime rate settling around 11.64 in 2023. This might suggest that the college administration's efforts to enhance safety measures and promote awareness have begun to yield positive results. The data indicates a notable increase in arrests related to firearms and drug offenses in 2017, which could reflect broader societal issues impacting college campuses, including the national discourse on gun control and substance abuse.
Despite these challenges, it is essential to recognize the efforts made by campus security and law enforcement to address these issues. The decrease in crime rates in subsequent years indicates a potential stabilization of safety on campus. However, the data underscores the importance of continuous vigilance and proactive measures to ensure student safety and well-being. Monitoring these trends and implementing effective strategies will be crucial for maintaining a secure learning environment.
For more information on calculating crime rates, please visit: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Carroll College include Rod Grams (US senator and former television news anchor), Sinan Güler (Turkish former professional basketball player) and Norman Holter (Biophysicist who invented the Holter monitor).
-
Rod Grams 1948–2013
US senator and former television news anchor
-
Sinan Güler 1983–
Turkish former professional basketball player
-
Norman Holter 1914–1983
Biophysicist who invented the Holter monitor
-
George Leo Thomas 1950–
Catholic Archbishop of Las Vegas
-
Marc Racicot 1948–
21st governor of Montana
-
John Walsh 1960–
Former US Senator from Montana
-
Raymond Hunthausen 1921–2018
Catholic Archbishop of Seattle
-
Jeffrey M. Fleming 1966–
Catholic bishop of Great Falls-Billings
-
Stuart Long 1963–2014
Boxer and Catholic priest
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
Jerry J. O'Connell 1909–1956
Lawyer and congressman from Montana
-
Joseph P. Monaghan 1906–1985
Democratic U.S. representative from Montana
-
Joyce Woodhouse 1944–2026
Former Nevada state senator
-
Michele Reinhart
Former Montana state representative
Business
-
Tarah Wheeler 1979–
Cybersecurity executive and author
Sports
-
Susannah Scaroni 1991–
Paralympic wheelchair racer, 2020 Paralympic gold medalist
Other fields
-
Bernard Joseph Topel 1903–1986
Catholic bishop of Spokane
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.