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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Carroll University

Waukesha, Wisconsin · www.carrollu.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

66.8%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$38,890

$53,170 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

2,581

Student-faculty ratio 14:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

56.4%

4-year; 6-year rate 67.0%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Carroll University, located in Waukesha, Wisconsin, is a private Christian liberal arts university founded in 1846. It is renowned for its commitment to personalized education and a strong emphasis on community service, reflecting its mission to prepare students for meaningful lives and careers. The university's motto, "The Best of the Old and the New," encapsulates its dedication to combining traditional liberal arts education with modern learning techniques and innovative programs. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, Carroll offers an intimate learning environment where students can engage directly with experienced faculty members, fostering mentorship and academic growth.

The campus boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational centers, which enhance the student experience. Carroll University offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with popular fields including health sciences, business, and education. The university is also known for its vibrant campus culture, which promotes student involvement through various clubs, organizations, and athletic teams. The Pioneer athletics program encourages students to engage in sports, promoting physical fitness and teamwork. Notable alumni include prominent figures in various fields, contributing to the university's reputation for producing successful graduates. Through its strong emphasis on academic excellence, community engagement, and student support, Carroll University continues to thrive as a respected institution of higher learning.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Carroll University

Carroll University has demonstrated notable trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student demographics over the years. The tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students have seen a consistent increase, rising from around $27,724 in 2014 to approximately $36,190 in 2023. This represents a significant financial burden for students and their families, highlighting the ongoing challenge of rising educational costs across the United States.

In contrast to the rising tuition, the undergraduate graduation rate has shown a promising upward trend, climbing from about 37.99% in 2013 to an impressive 60.63% in 2023 for on-time graduates. This improvement in graduation rates can be indicative of enhanced student support services and academic resources, which may contribute to better retention and completion outcomes. However, the retention rate has experienced fluctuations, peaking at 82.82% in 2020 but dropping to 74.78% in 2023. This decline in retention could reflect broader challenges faced by students, possibly exacerbated by the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted many institutions' ability to support students effectively.

Moreover, the gender ratio among students has remained relatively consistent, with female students comprising a larger percentage of the undergraduate population. For instance, in 2023, women represented approximately 67.16% of the undergraduate cohort, while men accounted for 32.84%. This gender disparity is common in many universities and raises questions about the factors influencing male enrollment and retention in higher education.

Overall, while Carroll University has made strides in improving graduation rates, the rising cost of tuition and challenges in student retention warrant ongoing attention to ensure that students receive the necessary support to succeed academically and financially.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Small city
Nearest major city
Milwaukee, about 15 mi
Nearest international airport
General Mitchell International Airport (MKE), about 15 mi
Waukesha, Wisconsin
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Presbyterian Church (USA)
President
Cindy Gnadinger (President)
Phone
2625471211
City
Waukesha, Wisconsin
Address
100 N East Ave, Waukesha, WI 53186

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
63.4%
Women
69.3%

In 2020: men 59.1%, women 72.0%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Carroll University

The admission data for Carroll University over the years reveals notable trends regarding acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. The percentages of male and female applicants admitted have experienced fluctuations, illustrating the changing competitiveness of the university. For instance, the male acceptance rate peaked at approximately 92.53% in 2016, while the female acceptance rate reached about 94.76% in the same year. This suggests that the university was particularly accommodating during that period.
However, there is a stark contrast in the admission rates during the years following 2016, particularly in 2018 and 2020. The male acceptance rate dropped significantly to around 64.61% and 59.13%, respectively, indicating a tightening of admissions criteria or an increase in applications. The female acceptance rate also showed a decline, with a noteworthy drop to about 70.00% in 2020. This shift might reflect broader trends in higher education where institutions are becoming more selective as application numbers rise, a situation exacerbated by the global pandemic, which altered the landscape of college admissions.
The enrollment figures have also varied, with the highest enrollment recorded at 984 in 2010, showcasing the university's capacity to attract students. However, the number of students denied admission has increased notably in recent years, peaking at 1,493 in 2020. This could indicate either an increase in the quality of applicants or a strategic decision by the university to limit growth and maintain academic standards.
Overall, the data indicates that Carroll University has navigated challenges in admissions with varying strategies, reflecting broader trends in the higher education landscape amid changing demographics and external circumstances.

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

Nursing School#288▲6
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—

Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition

Health Specialty2 programs—

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 · 10% submitted SAT, 26% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1040–1270Peer median 1158
ACT composite21–27
SAT Reading
510–640
600700800
SAT Math
530–630
600700800
ACT composite
21–27
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admission Test Submissions and Scores at Carroll University

The data from Carroll University over the years reveals significant trends in standardized test submissions and performance. Notably, the number of SAT submissions has seen fluctuations, with a marked increase in recent years. For instance, the proportion of students submitting SAT scores rose to 25% in 2020, indicating a growing reliance on this assessment for college admissions.

Moreover, the trend in SAT scores has shown a positive trajectory, with the 25th percentile of admitted students achieving scores ranging from 370 in earlier years to 520-670 in 2023. This highlights an increasing competitiveness within the applicant pool, aligning with national trends where higher education institutions are witnessing a surge in applicants and, consequently, a rise in average test scores.

Additionally, ACT submissions have also displayed variability, with 20% of applicants submitting scores in 2021. The score range for ACT composite scores has been consistent, suggesting that while students may be diversifying their test submissions, the overall performance remains stable.

The overall trend indicates that as the admission landscape evolves, students are not only preparing more rigorously for these standardized tests but also that universities are adapting their admission strategies accordingly. This is particularly pertinent in the current educational climate, where standardized testing policies are continuously being reassessed in light of equity and access considerations. The increasing number of students taking these tests may reflect both a strategic choice to enhance college applications and an ongoing commitment to academic excellence.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

6,164 applicants in 2025, 66.8% admitted

4,120 admitted 2,044 not admitted Yield 17.5%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate150 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's53915 international (2.8%)
Master's1941 international (0.5%)
Doctoral690 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
86
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
85
Business Administration and Management, General
33
Elementary Education and Teaching
32
Psychology, General
31
Animal Behavior and Ethology
30
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
22
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
21
Health/Health Care Administration/Management
16
Education, Other
12

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Physical Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral69 (0% international)
  • Physician Assistant · Master's32 (0% international)
  • Management Science · Master's27 (4% international)
  • Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Master's25 (0% international)
  • Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse · Master's22 (0% international)
  • Behavioral Sciences · Master's20 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduate Trends at Carroll University in 2023

The data for Carroll University's 2023 graduation statistics reveals some interesting trends across various fields of study. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out as the most popular, with 128 students graduating with a bachelor's degree. This significant number reflects the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals, particularly in nursing, influenced by recent global health crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, which has highlighted the critical role nurses play in the healthcare system.

In contrast, the Physical Therapy program has a notable presence at the graduate level, with 76 students earning their doctorate. This indicates a growing interest in advanced clinical roles and the importance of rehabilitation services in patient care. The push toward higher education in healthcare professions aligns with broader trends emphasizing the need for specialized training and expertise.

Interestingly, the psychology program produced 53 bachelor's graduates and had one international student, suggesting a modest interest in psychology compared to nursing. This disparity may highlight the varying levels of job market demand and societal perceptions of different professions. Additionally, the lack of graduates in other programs, such as education or global studies, raises questions about student interest and employment opportunities in those fields.

The absence of international students graduating in many programs could signal barriers to entry for international candidates, which may affect the university's diversity and global engagement. Overall, these statistics reflect current educational trends in the U.S., emphasizing the critical importance of healthcare education while also highlighting areas for potential growth and improvement in attracting a diverse student body.

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

Health professionshas 299 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.$82,867
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.$45,684
Electroneurodiagnostic/Electroencephalographic Technology/Technologist.$105,668
Physician Assistant.$105,668
Athletic Training/Trainer.$105,668
Public Health Education and Promotion.$47,826
Music Therapy/Therapist.$66,536-$80,868
Occupational Therapy/Therapist.$66,536-$80,868
Physical Therapy/Therapist.$66,536-$80,868
Nursing Education.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$78,942
Parks, recreation, leisure has 113 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$37,232
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$37,232
Educationhas 99 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Curriculum and Instruction.-
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.$62,006
Adult and Continuing Education Administration.$62,006
Education/Teaching of Individuals in Junior High/Middle School Special Education Programs.$47,652
Elementary Education and Teaching.$47,114
Teacher Education, Multiple Levels.$47,114
English/Language Arts Teacher Education.-
Music Teacher Education.-
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.-
Spanish Language Teacher Education.-
Education, Other.-
Businesshas 92 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$55,106-$96,824
Organizational Leadership.$55,106-$96,824
Accounting.-
Business/Managerial Economics.-
Finance, General.-
Management Science.-
Actuarial Science.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Biologyhas 66 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$39,191
Biochemistry.-
Animal Behavior and Ethology.$35,803
Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology.-
Psychology has 31 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$44,637
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Behavioral Sciences.-
Visual and Performing artshas 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Graphic Design.-
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Musical Theatre.-
Photography.-
Music, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Information Technology.-
Computer Science.$72,641
Social sciencehas 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Homeland security has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$52,500
Communication has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Communication, General.$39,718
English has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
Natural resources has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Environmental Science.-
Engineeringhas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Engineering Physics/Applied Physics.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-
History has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Transportation has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Aeronautics/Aviation/Aerospace Science and Technology, General.-
Foreign languages has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Spanish Language and Literature.-
Physical scienceshas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-
Philosophy has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Philosophy, Other.-

Students

3,138 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 33:67 · Freshman retention 78.2%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,581)

White
1,765 · 68.4%
Hispanic
350 · 13.6%
Unknown
116 · 4.5%
Black
105 · 4.1%
International
99 · 3.8%
Two or more races
77 · 3.0%
Asian
64 · 2.5%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.9%
18–19
45.0%
20–21
40.6%
22–24
8.4%
25 and over
4.1%

Graduate students

Under 22
2.2%
22–24
60.3%
25–29
15.6%
30–34
7.4%
35 and over
14.5%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Carroll University in 2023

The student demographics at Carroll University in 2023 present an intriguing picture of diversity and gender representation. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 674, with a notable female representation of 62.2%, compared to 37.8% male students. This trend continues among undergraduates, where sophomores, juniors, and transfer students show even higher female enrollment, indicating a growing interest and participation of women in higher education.

The graduate student body, comprising 512 individuals, has a striking female majority of 72.9%. This significant representation of women in graduate studies suggests that Carroll University is fostering an environment where female students feel encouraged to pursue advanced degrees, reflecting broader trends in higher education where women are increasingly outnumbering men in graduate programs.

Analyzing the racial demographics, the majority of students across all classifications are white, with significant numbers also represented in the Asian, Latinx, and other categories. However, the data highlights the need for Carroll University to continue its efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion, particularly for underrepresented groups.

Overall, the gender ratio points towards a progressive shift in educational demographics, while the racial composition indicates areas for potential growth in diversity. As institutions like Carroll University strive for inclusivity, these statistics provide valuable insights into the current landscape and the opportunities that lie ahead.

Age Distribution of Carroll University Students in 2023

The age distribution of students at Carroll University in 2023 highlights several intriguing trends that reflect broader patterns in higher education demographics. Notably, the largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age range, with 385 male undergraduates and a substantial 761 female undergraduates. This suggests a strong influx of traditional-age students, which is consistent with national trends as universities continue to attract young adults immediately after high school.

As we move into the 20-21 age category, we observe a slight decline in male undergraduate enrollment to 352, but an increase in female undergraduates to 816. This disparity hints at a growing trend where female students are outpacing their male counterparts in higher education, a phenomenon documented in various studies indicating that women are increasingly earning degrees at higher rates than men.

The data also reveals a notable drop in enrollment for students aged 22-24, where the total number of students decreases significantly. This decline could be attributed to several factors, including students choosing to enter the workforce after completing their undergraduate degrees or opting for graduate programs earlier than in previous generations.

Interestingly, the number of students aged 30 and above remains relatively small, indicating that Carroll University primarily serves a younger demographic. However, the presence of students in the 25-29 and 30-34 age brackets suggests that there is some interest among older individuals pursuing higher education, which aligns with the increasing trend of adult learners seeking to enhance their qualifications or change career paths.

Overall, the age composition at Carroll University reflects ongoing shifts in educational engagement and demographic trends in higher education, particularly the growing presence of female students and the challenges faced by younger male students.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates3.8%

99 in 2025 · 2.7% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.7%2017: 2.7%2018: 2.9%2019: 2.0%2020: 1.8%2021: 1.0%2022: 1.5%2023: 2.1%2024: 3.3%2025: 3.8%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students0.9%

5 in 2025 · 4.1% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 4.1%2017: 3.3%2018: 1.7%2019: 1.8%2020: 0.8%2021: 0.4%2022: 0.6%2023: 1.2%2024: 1.3%2025: 0.9%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Carroll University

The data on international student enrollment at Carroll University over the years reveals some interesting trends and challenges faced by the institution. From 2004 to 2023, the total number of undergraduate students has fluctuated, peaking at 3,256 in 2012. However, the proportion of international students in undergraduate programs has generally remained low, hovering around 1% to 3%. This indicates that while the university has a steady enrollment, it has struggled to attract a significant number of international students relative to its total student body.

For graduate programs, the situation appears to be slightly better, with the percentage of international students reaching a high of 4.05% in 2016. Yet, the overall numbers reflect a concerning trend, particularly in the years following 2020, where both the total number of graduate students and the percentage of international students have seen a decline. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on international education, contributing to reduced enrollment numbers as travel restrictions and safety concerns affected prospective students.

Furthermore, the data suggests that Carroll University may need to enhance its recruitment strategies and support services for international students. With increasing competition from other institutions, particularly in the United States, it is imperative for Carroll to adapt to the changing landscape of higher education. This could involve targeted outreach efforts, scholarship opportunities, and creating a more inclusive environment to better support the needs of international students.

In summary, while Carroll University has maintained a consistent total enrollment, the representation of international students remains low. There is a pressing need for the institution to evaluate and implement strategies that can enhance its appeal to a broader range of international students, ensuring a diverse and vibrant campus community.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$53,170

Undergraduate tuition
$38,890
Room and board
$14,280
Graduate tuition
$14,424
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 32% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 58%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$89.3M

Tuition and fees
$56.6M63.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$18.8M21.1%
Gifts and private grants
$6.0M6.7%
Investment return
$4.8M5.4%
Government grants and contracts
$900K1.0%
Other
$2.1M2.4%

Expenses$94.3M

Instruction
$31.0M32.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$18.4M19.5%
Institutional support
$17.3M18.3%
Student services
$15.6M16.6%
Academic support
$11.9M12.7%
Public service
$131K0.1%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$77,531peers $68,006
Professor
$91,263peers $78,041
Associate professor
$77,560peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$72,806peers $63,827

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin

College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)62117
Football126-
Soccer4138
Lacrosse2920
Baseball48-
Basketball2018
Tennis1714
Swimming1218
Softball-20
Volleyball-20
Golf117
Bowling-7
2024
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6090
Football117-
Soccer4945
Baseball52-
Lacrosse2822
Basketball1817
Tennis1516
Swimming1018
Softball-25
Golf1410
Volleyball-20
Bowling-7
2023
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6894
Football113-
Soccer5648
Baseball48-
Lacrosse2125
Basketball2116
Swimming1025
Tennis1217
Softball-25
Volleyball-18
Golf87
Bowling-5

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities surrounding Carroll University:

  1. Marquette University - Ranked 86th in the 2024 US News rankings, Marquette University is a comprehensive university known for its strong programs in business, law, and health sciences.

  2. University of Wisconsin-Madison - This prestigious institution is ranked 35th. It's a comprehensive university recognized for its research initiatives and diverse academic offerings.

  3. Northwestern University - With a remarkable rank of 9, Northwestern is a highly regarded comprehensive university known for its strong emphasis on research and a vibrant campus life.

  4. University of Chicago - Ranked 12th, the University of Chicago is renowned for its rigorous academics and distinguished faculty, making it one of the leading institutions in the world.

  5. Loyola University Chicago - This comprehensive university is ranked 142nd and is well-known for its commitment to social justice and community service, along with strong programs in business and law.

These institutions offer a variety of programs and opportunities for students in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
265
Drug referrals
23
Stalking
10
Rape
9
Fondling
5
Dating violence
4

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 University

The crime statistics at Carroll University from 2013 to 2023 exhibit a notable trend of declining crime rates, showcasing a significant decrease in campus incidents over the years. In 2013, the crime rate per 1,000 students was recorded at approximately 23.52, which gradually dropped to around 7.24 by 2022. This decline represents a reduction of about 69% in crime rates, indicating effective measures taken by the university to enhance campus safety and security.

Particularly, the arrest rates related to gun possession and alcohol offenses have seen significant fluctuations. The data shows a consistent effort to mitigate these incidents, with the most recent years reflecting fewer occurrences. For instance, in 2021, the crime rate per 1,000 students fell to 9.97, and while there was a slight increase in 2023, the overall trend remains positive. The university's focus on promoting a safe environment for students, alongside community awareness programs, may contribute to these favorable outcomes.

Moreover, the statistics reveal that drug-related arrests have also decreased, highlighting a broader trend of decreasing substance-related incidents on campus. This is particularly important considering the rising concerns about drug abuse among college students nationally.

In conclusion, Carroll University appears to be successfully managing and reducing crime on campus, which is encouraging for both current and prospective students. The ongoing commitment to safety and proactive measures will be essential in maintaining this positive trajectory. For more detailed information on calculating crime rates, refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

All 24

Notable alumni of Carroll University include Fred MacMurray (Actor who appeared in over one hundred films), Eric Szmanda (Actor known for CSI: Crime Scene Investigation) and Alfred Lunt (Stage actor and director).

See all 24 notable alumni of Carroll University →

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.