About Carlow University
Carlow University builds careers in healthcare through hands-on training at one of Pittsburgh's most focused institutions. The 1,336 students concentrate heavily on nursing and health sciences programs that connect directly to the city's well-known medical centers. Women make up 83.46% of the student body, reflecting the university's strong programs in traditionally female-dominated healthcare fields. The Catholic university maintains small class sizes with a 12:1 student-faculty ratio that allows for personalized attention in clinical preparation.
Students pay an average net price of $20,822 after financial aid, making this private education surprisingly affordable. Graduates earn a median of $51,051 ten years after graduation, while carrying typical debt loads of $25,500. The employment rate hits 98.1%, indicating strong job placement in Pittsburgh's robust healthcare economy. Monthly loan payments average $270, which represents a manageable burden given the solid earning potential in nursing and health fields.
The acceptance rate of 92.70% makes Carlow accessible to students with varying academic backgrounds, though the 55.2% six-year graduation rate suggests the programs demand serious commitment. Nearly half the students receive Pell Grants, creating an economically diverse learning environment. The university's 16 Division III sports teams provide campus engagement opportunities beyond the demanding health science coursework.
Students pay an average net price of $20,822 after financial aid, making this private education surprisingly affordable. Graduates earn a median of $51,051 ten years after graduation, while carrying typical debt loads of $25,500. The employment rate hits 98.1%, indicating strong job placement in Pittsburgh's robust healthcare economy. Monthly loan payments average $270, which represents a manageable burden given the solid earning potential in nursing and health fields.
The acceptance rate of 92.70% makes Carlow accessible to students with varying academic backgrounds, though the 55.2% six-year graduation rate suggests the programs demand serious commitment. Nearly half the students receive Pell Grants, creating an economically diverse learning environment. The university's 16 Division III sports teams provide campus engagement opportunities beyond the demanding health science coursework.
Academics & Faculty
Carlow University built its reputation on health sciences and nursing programs that leverage Pittsburgh's strong medical facilities for clinical training. The student-faculty ratio of 12:1 creates small classes where professors know students by name. However, the 55% six-year graduation rate suggests many students struggle to finish their degrees despite this personal attention. The university's Catholic mission shapes its curriculum around service-oriented careers in healthcare and social work. Strong partnerships with UPMC and other Pittsburgh hospitals give nursing students strong hands-on experience. The 77% retention rate indicates most students who stay engaged with their programs find the support they need to continue.
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 12:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 100.0%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 55.6%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 55.2%
- Retention Rate
- 77.7%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $51,051
- Carnegie Classification
- Master's University (Large)
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $87,051 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Doctoral | $81,812 |
| Bioethics/Medical Ethics. | Master | $76,460 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $60,623 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $58,919 |
| Security Science and Technology. | Master | $52,941 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $42,682 |
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. | Master | $39,369 |
| Human Resources Management and Services. | Bachelor | $37,748 |
| Biology, General. | Bachelor | $36,132 |
Campus Life
Campus sits in the heart of Pittsburgh's Oakland neighborhood, minutes from major hospitals where nursing and health science students complete clinical rotations. With housing capacity for just 404 students and total enrollment of 1,336, most students commute from home since 90.52% come from Pennsylvania. The small residential population creates tight-knit friendships among the roughly 30% who live on campus.
Pittsburgh winters mean heavy coats and snow boots from December through March, while spring brings beautiful weather to nearby Schenley Park and the Cathedral of Learning. Women make up 83.46% of the student body, reflecting the university's strength in traditionally female-dominated fields like nursing and social work. The 12:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know students by name, especially important in hands-on health programs. Weekends often revolve around clinical placements and study groups, though students explore Pittsburgh's neighborhoods, sports venues, and cultural attractions. The Celtics compete in 16 NCAA Division III sports with 220 total athletes, creating school spirit despite the university's small size.
Pittsburgh winters mean heavy coats and snow boots from December through March, while spring brings beautiful weather to nearby Schenley Park and the Cathedral of Learning. Women make up 83.46% of the student body, reflecting the university's strength in traditionally female-dominated fields like nursing and social work. The 12:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know students by name, especially important in hands-on health programs. Weekends often revolve around clinical placements and study groups, though students explore Pittsburgh's neighborhoods, sports venues, and cultural attractions. The Celtics compete in 16 NCAA Division III sports with 220 total athletes, creating school spirit despite the university's small size.
- Setting
- City-Large
- Housing Capacity
- 404 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1929
Campus Safety (2023)
No reported Clery Act crimes in 2023.
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 22°–36°F
- July Avg
- 64°–83°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 41.3"
- Annual Snowfall
- 25.0"
Student Demographics
Carlow draws students primarily from Pennsylvania, with over 90% staying close to home for their education. The student body is overwhelmingly female at 83%, reflecting the university's strong reputation in nursing and health sciences programs that traditionally attract more women. This Catholic institution serves a diverse mix of students, with about one-third representing minority backgrounds. The 41% Pell Grant rate shows Carlow attracts many first-generation and lower-income students seeking career-focused degrees. Most students choose Carlow for its hands-on health science training and clinical partnerships throughout Pittsburgh's well-known medical community.
- Men
- 16.5%
- Women
- 83.5%
- White
- 66.9%
- Black
- 19.2%
- Hispanic
- 4.1%
- Asian
- 3.5%
- In-State Students
- 90.5%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 41.2%
Location
Carlow University sits in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a major metropolitan area home to over 2.3 million residents. The city transformed from its steel industry roots into a center for healthcare, technology, and education. Pittsburgh's Oakland neighborhood, where many universities cluster, provides Carlow students with internship opportunities at major medical centers like UPMC. The campus benefits from the city's 90 neighborhoods, each with distinct character, from the Strip District's markets to Lawrenceville's arts scene. Students can access three rivers, numerous bridges, and a revitalized downtown within minutes. The region's four seasons offer outdoor recreation in nearby state parks. Students considering colleges in Pennsylvania may also compare Carlow University with similar schools in the region.
- Address
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213-3165
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $51,051
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $60,804
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $40,400
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 56.8%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $270/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $25,500
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Carlow University?
Carlow University accepts 92.7% of applicants, making it accessible to most students who apply. The average SAT score is 975, reflecting the school's commitment to providing opportunities for students with diverse academic backgrounds.
How much does Carlow University cost after financial aid?
The average net price at Carlow University is $20,822, lower than the full tuition of $34,502. Over 41% of students receive Pell Grants, and graduates typically leave with $25,500 in debt.
What is the student-faculty ratio at Carlow University?
Carlow University maintains a 12:1 student-faculty ratio with just 1,336 total students. This small Catholic university is particularly known for its health sciences and nursing programs with strong clinical partnerships throughout Pittsburgh.
How much do Carlow University graduates earn?
Carlow University graduates earn a median salary of $51,051 ten years after graduation. The school boasts a 98.1% employment rate, reflecting strong job placement in healthcare and other fields.
Where do most Carlow University students come from?
About 90.5% of Carlow University students are Pennsylvania residents, making it primarily a regional institution. The student body is 83.5% women, reflecting the university's historical focus on programs that traditionally attract female students.
Does Carlow University have Division I athletics?
Carlow University competes in NCAA Division III with 16 varsity sports and 220 total athletes. The Celtics compete in the Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference, emphasizing the student-athlete experience without athletic scholarships typical of Division I programs.
