Carroll University
Waukesha, United States
Carroll University
Waukesha, United States
Founded
1846
Institution Type
Private
Total Undergraduates
2,581
Student-Faculty Ratio
14:1
Discover Carroll University: Wisconsin's Pioneer College
Discover Carroll University: Wisconsin's Pioneer College
Carroll University is a private institution located in Waukesha, Wisconsin, and holds the distinction of being Wisconsin's first four-year institution of higher learning, chartered by the territorial legislature on January 31, 1846. Affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA), the university was named after Charles Carroll, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and grew out of the Prairieville Academy founded in 1841.
Today, Carroll University offers more than 95 areas of study at the undergraduate level, along with master's degrees and a clinical doctorate program in physical therapy. The university's three academic divisions — the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Health Sciences, and the School of Business — provide students with a comprehensive and career-focused education grounded in the liberal arts tradition.
Set on a 137-acre suburban campus just minutes from Milwaukee and approximately 100 miles from Chicago, Carroll combines the intimacy of a small university with access to major metropolitan opportunities for internships and clinical placements. The university's Pioneer Core curriculum weaves a cross-cultural emphasis throughout each student's academic career, preparing graduates for success in a diverse and interconnected world.
Key Milestones
- 1846: Chartered by the Wisconsin Territorial Legislature as the state's first four-year college, opening with five students and two faculty members.
- 1863: Admitted female students for the first time during the Civil War era to keep the institution's doors open.
- 1946: Celebrated its centennial, emerging from World War II as a strong Presbyterian liberal arts college with enrollment exceeding 1,000 students.
- 2008: Officially designated as Carroll University, reflecting the expansion of graduate programs in health sciences, business, and other professional fields.
Academic Structure and Programs at Carroll University
Academic Structure and Programs at Carroll University
Carroll University organizes its academic offerings across three primary divisions, providing more than 95 areas of study at the undergraduate level along with select graduate and doctoral programs. The curriculum is anchored by the Pioneer Core, an innovative general education requirement that emphasizes cross-cultural learning and critical thinking.
College of Arts and Sciences
The College of Arts and Sciences forms the liberal arts foundation of Carroll University, offering programs in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and fine arts. Students benefit from small class sizes and personalized faculty mentorship.
- Biology
- Psychology
- Criminal Justice
College of Health Sciences
The College of Health Sciences is one of Carroll's strongest divisions, featuring highly regarded programs in nursing, physical therapy, and exercise science. Clinical placements in the greater Milwaukee area provide valuable hands-on experience.
- Nursing
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
- Exercise Science
School of Business
The School of Business prepares students for leadership roles through programs in accounting, finance, marketing, and management. Graduate offerings include an MBA program open to students from all academic backgrounds.
- Business Administration
- Accounting
- Marketing
Education Programs
Carroll's education programs prepare future teachers and educational leaders through a combination of coursework and field experiences in local schools. Students can pursue licensure in multiple areas of K-12 education.
- Elementary Education
- Secondary Education
- Special Education
Communication and Information Technology
Programs in communication and information technology equip students with technical and analytical skills for careers in media, technology, and organizational leadership. Coursework blends theory with practical application.
- Communication
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
Global and Cultural Studies
Carroll's global studies offerings reflect the university's commitment to cross-cultural education embedded in the Pioneer Core. Students explore international relations, history, and diverse cultural perspectives.
- Global Studies
- History
- Political Science
Admission Requirements for Carroll University
Admission Requirements for Carroll University
Undergraduate Admission
- Application PortalCommon Application or Carroll University Application Portal
- Application FeeNone (fee-free application)
- High School TranscriptsOfficial transcripts required
- Standardized TestsTest-optional (SAT/ACT not required)
- English ProficiencyTOEFL or IELTS required for international students
Graduate Admission
- Application PortalCarroll University Graduate Application Portal
- Application FeeNone
- Bachelor's DegreeRequired from an accredited institution
- TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
- Additional RequirementsVary by program; some require prerequisite courses or professional experience
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for the fall semester. Early application is encouraged for best scholarship consideration.
Rolling admissions for the spring semester allow flexible entry for qualified applicants.
Summer session applications are accepted on a rolling basis for select programs.
Graduate program deadlines vary by department. Contact the Office of Graduate Admission for specific dates.
Tuition, Fees, and Scholarships at Carroll University
Tuition, Fees, and Scholarships at Carroll University
As a private university, Carroll University maintains a single tuition rate for all students regardless of state residency. The university is committed to affordability, with 83% of first-year students receiving need-based financial aid and generous merit-based scholarship opportunities.
| Expense Category | Annual Cost (All Students) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | USD 40,680 | Same for all students |
| Room and Board | USD 13,200 | Based on standard double room and meal plan |
| Books and Supplies | USD 1,028 | Estimated average |
| Personal and Transportation | USD 1,514 | Estimated average |
| Total | USD 56,422 | Same for all students |
Academic Merit Scholarships
Upon acceptance, all students are automatically considered for academic merit scholarships based on their academic record. No separate application is required.
- Eligibility: All admitted students
- Award Basis: Academic achievement and GPA
- Application: Automatic upon admission
Need-Based Financial Aid
Carroll provides substantial need-based aid packages. The average need-based scholarship or grant awarded to first-year students is approximately USD 31,160.
- Average Grant (First-Year): USD 31,160
- Students Receiving Aid: 83% of first-year students
- Application Required: FAFSA submission
Campus and Facilities at Carroll University
Campus and Facilities at Carroll University
Carroll University's 137-acre campus in Waukesha features a blend of historic 19th-century stone buildings and modern academic facilities. The suburban setting offers a safe, walkable environment with easy access to Milwaukee's cultural and professional opportunities.
The iconic Main Lawn serves as the heart of campus, surrounded by historic buildings dating back to the 19th century.
State-of-the-art labs and clinical simulation spaces support Carroll's acclaimed health sciences programs.
Modern athletic facilities support 23 varsity sports and a vibrant intramural and recreation program for all students.
Housing and Dining
Residential Life
Carroll guarantees housing for first-year students and offers a range of on-campus living options from traditional residence halls to suite-style units and apartments.
- Traditional residence halls for first-year students
- Suite-style and apartment living for upperclassmen
- 24/7 campus safety and shuttle service
Dining Services
On-campus dining options provide students with a variety of meal plans and food choices to accommodate diverse dietary needs and preferences.
- Full meal plan included with standard room and board
- Multiple dining venues across campus
- Flexible meal plan options available
Student Life at Carroll University
Student Life at Carroll University
Carroll University fosters a close-knit campus community where students can explore their interests through a wide range of clubs, organizations, and activities. The small campus size makes it easy to build meaningful connections with peers and faculty.
Location: Waukesha, Wisconsin
Location: Waukesha, Wisconsin
Life in Waukesha
Waukesha is a charming suburban city located about 20 miles west of Milwaukee, offering a safe and welcoming community with a vibrant downtown, local shops, and restaurants along the Fox River. Students enjoy the best of both worlds: a friendly small-city atmosphere with easy access to Milwaukee's professional, cultural, and entertainment offerings.
Proximity to Milwaukee
Just minutes from downtown Milwaukee, students can access internships, clinical placements, cultural attractions, and a thriving job market in Wisconsin's largest city.
Access to Chicago
Located approximately 100 miles from Chicago, Carroll students can take advantage of weekend trips and career opportunities in one of America's major metropolitan areas.
Outdoor Recreation
Waukesha County offers abundant parks, lakes, and trails for hiking, biking, and water sports, providing a great balance to academic life.
Historic Downtown Waukesha
The walkable downtown features local restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and community events throughout the year, creating a lively atmosphere for students.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Where Carroll Graduates Work
Practical Information for Prospective Students
Practical Information for Prospective Students
For International Students
Carroll University partners with Shorelight to provide international-friendly admission and enrollment processes. Dedicated staff assist with applications, visa documentation, and I-20 forms for F-1 student visas.
International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS scores. Carroll's test-optional policy applies to SAT/ACT standardized tests, not English proficiency exams.
While federal financial aid is not available to international students, Carroll offers institutional merit-based scholarships and work-study eligibility to help offset educational costs.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Carroll University Rankings
Carroll University Rankings
Carroll University is consistently recognized among the top regional universities in the Midwest by major ranking publications. Its strong health sciences programs and commitment to student success contribute to its competitive positioning.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Nursing | Niche | Among top programs nationally for Nursing |
| Kinesiology and Physical Therapy | Niche | Ranked among Best Colleges for Kinesiology and Physical Therapy in America |
| Health and Physical Education | College Factual | Highest ranked major at Carroll University |
| Business | EduRank | #885 in the United States |
Features
Wisconsin’s oldest private university, blending a liberal arts tradition with strong health sciences programs, small class sizes, personalized learning, and a welcoming campus community for students from over 35 countries."
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - December
Location
100 N East Ave, Waukesha, WI 53186
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