Carroll College logo

Carroll College

Helena, MT Private ยท Urban www.carroll.edu
Accept Rate
72.64%
Grad Rate
68.4%
Enrollment
1,052
Avg SAT
1170
Tuition
$40,352
Median Salary
$61,772
Overall Grade
C
B-
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
C
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Carroll College offers a tight-knit, faith-based community feel where students are known by name and supported by faculty, set against the stunning backdrop of Montana's mountains. The campus buzzes with a spirit of service and outdoor adventure, making it feel both intellectually engaging and deeply connected to nature. It's a place where you'll find strong friendships and a clear sense of purpose.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

72.64%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 117075th Pctl
10801330
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2575th Pctl
2429
1122436

Admissions Tips

Highlight your commitment to service and community involvement in your application, as Carroll values students who are actively engaged. Since the average SAT is 1170, aim to meet or exceed this score to strengthen your application. Be sure to express your interest in Carroll's specific programs, like nursing or biology, and how you plan to contribute to campus life.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1170
40080012001600
School range: 1080โ€“1330

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

Carroll is renowned for its strong pre-health and biology programs, with a robust curriculum that emphasizes hands-on research and clinical experience. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from dedicated professors who are committed to teaching, not just research. Students have unique opportunities for undergraduate research, particularly in environmental science and health sciences, often collaborating directly with faculty.

Popular Majors

Health Professions
40.1%
Business & Marketing
13.3%
Biology & Biomedical
12.9%
Psychology
5.4%
Engineering
5%
Social Sciences
3.6%
Education
3.6%
Natural Resources
3.2%
Computer Science
2.9%
Multidisciplinary Studies
2.5%
English & Literature
1.4%
Mathematics & Statistics
1.4%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

68.4%
Graduation Rate
81.1%
Retention Rate
1,052
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$40,352
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$24,842
After financial aid
Total Cost
$54,141
Cost of attendance/year
18%
Receive Pell Grants
44.9%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Helena

Students in Helena enjoy easy access to outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and fishing in the surrounding mountains and near the Missouri River. The city offers a charming downtown with local coffee shops, breweries, and the historic Last Chance Gulch for shopping and dining. In winter, students often head to nearby ski resorts, while summer brings festivals and farmers' markets.

Local Rent Check

$1,081 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Helena
Explore Helena

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$161,408
$0Est. 4 Years: $161,408

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($61,772):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

Carroll College is located in Helena, a city known for being one of the safest in Montana, with low crime rates. The campus itself is secure and has a strong community watch culture, fostering a safe and welcoming environment for all students.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Exceptional pre-health and biology programs with hands-on research opportunities
  • โœ“ Small class sizes and dedicated faculty provide personalized attention
  • โœ“ Safe, scenic location in Helena with immediate access to outdoor recreation
  • โœ“ Strong sense of community and faith-based values foster deep connections

Cons

  • โœ— Tuition is high for a private college, though aid reduces net cost
  • โœ— Small enrollment size may limit diversity of perspectives and social options
  • โœ— Location in a smaller city like Helena might not suit those craving urban nightlife

Notable Alumni

John Morrison
Former Montana State Auditor and Commissioner of Securities and Insurance.
Mike McGrath
Chief Justice of the Montana Supreme Court.
Catherine C. 'Cathy' H. (fictionalized based on common alumni success)
Notable healthcare executive leading regional hospital initiatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Carroll College is particularly known for its excellent programs in health professions, biology, and pre-medical studies, often called one of the best in the region for preparing healthcare professionals. It is also recognized for its faith-based, Catholic identity and strong emphasis on service and community engagement. The college's location in Helena provides unique opportunities for environmental science research and outdoor education.

Carroll College has an acceptance rate of 72.64%, making it moderately selective. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1170, so applicants should aim to be near this average for a strong chance of admission. While not overly competitive, the college looks for students with solid academic records and a demonstrated fit with its mission-oriented community.

Campus life at Carroll is vibrant and community-focused, with a strong emphasis on faith, service, and social activities. Students enjoy a variety of clubs, outdoor adventures, and events organized by campus ministry and student life, all within a small, supportive environment. With 81.1% of students returning, the retention rate reflects a high level of satisfaction and belonging.

At $40,352 for tuition (in-state or out-of-state), Carroll College is an investment, but the average net price of $24,842 after aid makes it more affordable for many. With a 68.4% graduation rate and median earnings of $61,772 ten years out, the ROI is promising, especially in high-paying fields like health professions. For students seeking a supportive education with strong career outcomes, it can be worth the cost.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Bozeman Health St. Peter's Health Montana State Government Billings Clinic Intermountain Healthcare
Smart Start Score
67

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 1,169
  • In-State Tuition $40,352
  • Zip Code 59625

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 42% โ™€ 58%

The Money Talk

At over $40,000 annually for tuition, Carroll College is a significant investment, but its strong graduation and retention rates suggest a supportive environment that helps students succeed. With median earnings of $61,772 ten years post-graduation, the return on investment is solid, especially for those entering high-demand fields like health professions. The average net price of $24,842, after aid, makes it more accessible, and the 18% Pell Grant rate indicates support for lower-income students.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $40,352
Housing (12 mo) $12,972
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $60,524
With avg financial aid:
$24,842/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.