Carroll University

Based on the provided data, Carroll University has a negative ROI score of -63, suggesting that the median earnings 10 years after entry do not sufficiently compensate for the cost of attendance and student debt.

Carroll University has a graduation rate of 70.2%.

The median debt at graduation is $27,000, while the median earnings 10 years after entry are $58,009. This results in a negative ROI score, indicating that earnings do not significantly outpace debt.

Carroll University has an admission rate of 66.8%.

The primary financial concern is the negative ROI score, indicating that the cost of tuition and resulting debt may not be adequately offset by post-graduation earnings.

Carroll University has a moderately selective admission rate of 66.8%, meaning that for every 100 applicants, approximately 67 are admitted. This suggests that while admission is not guaranteed, it is attainable for many students who meet the academic criteria. To increase your chances of admission, focus on maintaining a strong GPA, particularly in core academic subjects like English, math, science, and social studies. Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are considered, though policies can vary, so check the most current requirements. A well-written essay that showcases your personality, experiences, and reasons for choosing Carroll can also significantly strengthen your application. Extracurricular involvement, volunteer work, and letters of recommendation can further demonstrate your potential and commitment. Early application, such as through Early Decision or Early Action, might also offer a slight advantage. Overall, while not highly competitive, a thoughtful and well-prepared application is key to a successful admission outcome at Carroll.

Evaluating Carroll University's financial worth involves a cost-benefit analysis. The in-state and out-of-state tuition is $38,890 annually. With a median 10-year earning potential of $58,009 and median debt of $27,000, the return on investment (ROI) is a concern, as indicated by the -63 ROI score. This score suggests that, on average, graduates take longer to recoup their educational expenses compared to national benchmarks. To break even on the $27,000 in debt alone, assuming a significant portion of salary is allocated to repayment, could take several years. However, the value can increase significantly depending on the chosen major. Programs in high-demand fields like nursing or business analytics may lead to higher starting salaries and faster career progression, improving the ROI. The quality of career services and internship placements also plays a crucial role in a graduate's earning potential. If Carroll provides exceptional career support that leads to high-paying jobs, the investment could be justified. For students seeking a strong sense of community and personalized attention, and who are likely to enter fields with robust earning potential in the Wisconsin region, Carroll might be a worthwhile investment. However, for those solely focused on maximizing financial returns quickly, other institutions might offer a more favorable financial outlook.

Carroll University excels in several program areas, particularly those aligned with regional economic strengths and its own faculty expertise. The Health Sciences division is consistently a strong performer, with majors like Nursing, Pre-Physical Therapy, and Pre-Occupational Therapy producing graduates highly sought after by Wisconsin's extensive healthcare network, including major employers like Ascension and Froedtert Health. The Business Administration program is also a solid choice, offering concentrations that prepare students for roles in finance, marketing, and management within local and regional companies such as Northwestern Mutual and Associated Bank. For students interested in STEM, Computer Science and Biology are robust majors, feeding into the technology and research sectors. The Education department also has a strong reputation for preparing teachers who are well-placed in local school districts. When considering the 'best' majors, it's advisable to look at programs with strong job placement rates and earning potential in the Midwest. Majors that leverage Carroll's specific strengths and local industry connections, particularly in healthcare and business, tend to offer the most promising career outcomes.

Student life at Carroll University is characterized by a close-knit community atmosphere, fostered by its relatively small size and private institution setting. Located in Waukesha, WI, the campus offers a blend of academic focus and extracurricular engagement. Students can participate in over 60 clubs and organizations, ranging from academic and cultural groups to recreational and service-oriented clubs. Carroll boasts a vibrant athletics program, with teams competing in the NCAA Division III Midwest Conference, providing opportunities for both student-athletes and enthusiastic fans. The university also emphasizes spiritual development and community service, with regular opportunities for involvement in campus ministry and local outreach programs. Social life often revolves around campus events, intramural sports, and student-organized activities. While Waukesha offers local attractions, many students also take advantage of the proximity to Milwaukee for concerts, dining, and cultural events. The residential experience is a key component, with various housing options available for students, encouraging a strong sense of belonging and shared experience. Overall, Carroll offers a supportive and engaging environment for students seeking a traditional college experience with a strong sense of community.

Carroll University is committed to making education accessible through various forms of financial aid. For the 2022-2023 academic year, a significant majority of full-time undergraduate students received some form of financial assistance. Approximately 99% of students received financial aid, with an average aid package totaling around $27,000. This aid typically comprises a mix of merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and student loans. Merit scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, while need-based grants are determined by a student's financial circumstances as assessed through the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and the CSS Profile. Federal aid programs, such as Pell Grants and federal student loans, are also a significant component. Carroll also offers institutional grants and scholarships specific to the university. Prospective students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA as early as possible to be considered for all available federal and state aid. The university's financial aid office provides resources and counseling to help students navigate the application process and understand their options for funding their education.

The median earnings for Carroll University graduates 10 years after enrollment is reported at $58,009. However, actual salaries can vary significantly based on the student's major, academic performance, internship experiences, and the specific industry and geographic location of employment. Graduates from high-demand fields like Nursing and Health Sciences often command higher starting salaries, potentially in the $60,000-$75,000 range within the Milwaukee metropolitan area's healthcare systems. Business graduates, depending on their specialization and the company, might expect starting salaries from $50,000 to $65,000 in roles like financial analyst or marketing coordinator. Graduates in fields like education or social sciences may see starting salaries in the $45,000-$55,000 range. It's important to note that the $58,009 median is a 10-year figure, implying that salaries increase with experience. Utilizing Carroll's career services for internships and job placement assistance is crucial for maximizing earning potential. Graduates who secure positions with major regional employers like Ascension, Northwestern Mutual, or Rockwell Automation may find competitive compensation packages. For the most accurate salary expectations, research specific job titles and industries relevant to your chosen major and the local Wisconsin job market.

Carroll University offers a range of on-campus housing options designed to support student life and academic success. First-year students are typically required to live on campus, fostering a strong sense of community and integration into university life. The university provides several residence halls, each with its own unique characteristics. For instance, North Hall and South Hall are traditional residence halls often housing first-year students, featuring double occupancy rooms and communal bathrooms. Campus View Apartments offer suite-style living with shared bathrooms for smaller groups. For upper-division students, there are apartment-style options like the Pioneer Square Apartments, which provide more independence with full kitchens and private bedrooms. All residence halls are equipped with basic furnishings, Wi-Fi, and common areas for studying and socializing. Resident Assistants (RAs) are available in each hall to provide support and programming. The university emphasizes creating a safe, inclusive, and conducive living and learning environment. Meal plans are also integrated with on-campus living, offering various dining options across campus, including the main dining hall and cafes.

Carroll University provides a supportive environment for undergraduate research, particularly within its strong science and health science programs. The university encourages students to engage in research alongside faculty mentors, offering opportunities for hands-on learning and scholarly inquiry. Many departments, including Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, and Public Health, have faculty actively conducting research and often involve undergraduates in their projects. Carroll hosts an annual Student Research Symposium where students can present their findings, fostering a culture of academic exploration. While Carroll may not have the vast research infrastructure of a large R1 university, its focus is on providing accessible, high-quality undergraduate research experiences. This allows students to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, which are invaluable for graduate school applications and future careers. Students interested in research should proactively connect with faculty members whose work aligns with their interests, as these mentorships are key to unlocking research opportunities at Carroll.

Carroll University is often compared to other private liberal arts colleges and universities in Wisconsin and the surrounding Midwest. Realistic peers include Marquette University (Milwaukee, WI), a larger Jesuit university with strong professional programs; St. Norbert College (De Pere, WI), another private liberal arts college with a similar focus on community; and potentially regional campuses of larger state systems like the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (Milwaukee, WI), though UW-Milwaukee is a public institution with a different scale and cost structure. Carroll's advantages over these peers often lie in its smaller class sizes, leading to more personalized attention, and a strong, established network within the greater Milwaukee healthcare sector, particularly for nursing and health sciences. Its specific Catholic tradition and Franciscan values also shape its campus culture distinctly. However, disadvantages can include a higher tuition cost compared to public options like UW-Milwaukee, and potentially less national brand recognition than a larger institution like Marquette, which might influence recruitment reach for certain national companies. St. Norbert and Carroll share similarities in size and mission, making them direct competitors for students seeking a similar intimate liberal arts experience.

Employers, particularly within the Wisconsin and greater Midwest region, generally hold a positive perception of graduates from Carroll University. The university's long-standing presence and its strong emphasis on practical experience through internships and clinical placements have built a reputation for producing well-prepared, reliable, and ethical professionals. Employers in the healthcare sector, such as Ascension Wisconsin and Froedtert Health, actively recruit Carroll graduates, especially from its nursing and allied health programs, valuing their clinical readiness. Similarly, regional businesses in finance and manufacturing often seek out Carroll alumni for their strong work ethic and foundational knowledge. The university's career services department plays a vital role in cultivating these employer relationships and ensuring graduates meet industry expectations. While Carroll may not have the widespread national name recognition of larger, more prestigious universities, its specific strengths in key fields and its deep roots in the local community ensure that its degrees are respected and sought after by employers who understand the quality of education and preparation Carroll provides.