Carlow University
The Vibe Check
Carlow University offers a close-knit, supportive atmosphere where students are known by name, not just by number. The campus feels like a tight community nestled within the vibrant energy of Pittsburgh. It's a place where you can expect personalized attention and a strong sense of belonging.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
SAT data not available
Average: 1048
ACT Score Range
ACT data not available
Average: 23
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Carlow's academic strengths are anchored in career-focused programs, particularly in Health Professions, Business, and Education. The university emphasizes experiential learning and offers small class sizes, fostering strong faculty mentorship and hands-on research opportunities, especially in its state-of-the-art science labs.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Pittsburgh
Students enjoy easy access to Pittsburgh's world-class museums, like the Carnegie Museums, and a thriving food scene in the Strip District. For fun, you can catch a Pirates or Steelers game, explore the vibrant North Side arts district, or take advantage of the city's beautiful parks and riverfront trails for biking and kayaking.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($51,051):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The Carlow campus is located in the safe and established Oakland neighborhood, with its own campus safety department providing 24/7 patrols. While the surrounding city is generally safe, students are encouraged to use Pittsburgh's public transit and stay aware of their surroundings, especially at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from faculty.
- ✓ Strong career-focused programs in high-demand fields like nursing and business.
- ✓ Affordable private education with a good net price for many students.
- ✓ Prime location in Pittsburgh's Oakland neighborhood with access to internships.
Cons
- ✗ The 55.6% graduation rate is significantly below the national average.
- ✗ Campus life may feel limited for students seeking a large, traditional university experience.
- ✗ The 77.7% retention rate suggests some students transfer after their first year.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Carlow University is primarily known for its strong programs in Health Professions (especially nursing), Business & Marketing, and Education. As a private Catholic university, it also emphasizes a mission of social justice and service, integrated into its curriculum and campus culture.
No, Carlow University is not considered highly selective. With an acceptance rate of 87.1%, the university has a fairly open admissions policy. This means that applicants who meet the academic requirements have a high likelihood of being admitted, making it an accessible option for many students.
Campus life at Carlow is intimate and community-oriented due to its small enrollment of around 1,300 students. Students benefit from a supportive environment with direct access to faculty. While the campus is in a bustling city neighborhood, the university itself provides a close-knit feel with various student clubs and organizations.
For many students, Carlow can be a worthwhile investment. The average net price of $20,822 is considerably lower than the sticker price, and the 10-year median earnings of $51,051 suggest a positive return, particularly for graduates entering Carlow's top fields like healthcare, where demand is high in the Pittsburgh region.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 2,206
- In-State Tuition $34,502
- Zip Code 15213
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $20,822, Carlow offers a more affordable private education compared to many national peers. The 10-year median earnings of $51,051 for graduates provide a solid return on investment, especially for those entering high-demand fields like healthcare and business in the growing Pittsburgh market.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.