Why Carroll College should hit your prospect list
When it comes to higher education in Montana, many families naturally think of options like Montana State University or the University of Montana. Large state schools like MSU and UM are well-known and offer a range of programs, but do they cater to those looking for something a bit more dialed in holistically?
For families looking for a high-quality, affordable education with a personal touch, Carroll College may be a viable option. With a strong focus on faith, career success, and community, Carroll offers a different experience from the larger state schools. As you and your student navigate the path of college enrollment, here are the top tips for dialing in the best match—and why Carroll College might just be the perfect fit.
1. Consider Value, Not Just the Price Tag
When deciding on major investments, do you mainly consider cost or the investment value? The majority would say value, right?! Selecting a secondary education should be no different.
Many families believe public universities are the most affordable option. However, private schools like Carroll College can be a better choice when comparing the cost to the value offered. In fact, because of federal aid and institutional scholarships, the vast majority of Montana families are eligible for free tuition. That’s right – free! Carroll College has been ranked #1 Best Value School in the West by U.S. News & World Report, providing an exceptional education at a cost that competes with, or even beats, many public schools. making it a great option for rural Montana families who may have assumed private schools were out of reach.
2. Long-Term Success and Earnings after Bagging the Bachelor
Financial stability is a major factor in why high school graduates choose to go to college and many parents see college as a place to become independent while learning a craft that provides a higher salary.
According to a recent Georgetown University report, Carroll College graduates have the highest lifetime earnings of any college in Montana. That’s a powerful statistic when you consider that your child’s education isn’t just about the next four years—it’s about setting them up for a successful career long after graduation. Carroll College’s combination of strong academics and a supportive alumni network ensures that students are well-prepared for professional success.
While a state school might offer an affordable tuition rate, does it offer the same long-term return on investment? See how all Montana colleges rank with this impactful comparison on the road towards earning a Bachelor’s Degree and average post-success rate: U.S. Department of Education Montana College Scorecard
3. Examine Retention Rates and Support Systems
It’s a fact that Montana is a frontier state. With an average of 7 people per square mile, many in-state college-bound kids will come from small communities. Evaluating where your student will feel supported and motivated will play a factor in their success on the social and educational side of college.
Carroll College boasts an 81% retention rate, which is the number of students who stay enrolled between their freshman and sophomore years. Carroll’s retention rate is the highest of any public or private institution in Montana. This speaks to student satisfaction and the strong sense of community and personal support Carroll provides. With small class sizes and a focus on personalized attention, your child won’t just be a number—they’ll be an active part of the Carroll College family.
4. Focus on a Holistic College Experience
A holistic college experience promotes personal and academic growth, preparing students for success in all areas of life. It nurtures not just intellect but also leadership, empathy, spiritual development, and resilience, equipping students with essential life skills. What parent wouldn’t appreciate this for their legacy?!
Carroll College offers a unique, holistic college experience that combines academic and personal growth in a close-knit, supportive environment, setting students up for success both during and after their time on campus. A Catholic institution where faith and service are foundational, Carroll prides itself on welcoming students of all denominations and backgrounds.
Such a strong sense of connection and belonging has had lasting impacts, as evidenced by the fact that many state school graduates leave Montana after graduation, where 72% of Carroll College graduates remain in the state five years later.
5. Compare Academic Programs
5. Compare Academic Programs
When considering a college, you’ll want to make sure it offers the right academic programs for your child’s interests and career goals.
Carroll College offers accredited programs in engineering, business, nursing, and pre-med, all designed to set students up for professional success. For students looking to work in fields like healthcare, technology, or business, Carroll provides a solid foundation that rivals many larger state schools.
Carroll is consistently recognized at the national level for excellence in academic programs, athletics, value, and alumni accomplishments. Carroll College Academic Rankings
Carroll College – An Investment in Your Child’s Future
Rural Montana families may think that private schools are out of reach or that state schools offer the best bang for the buck, but Carroll College is proof that a private education can offer exceptional value. With strong academic programs, the highest lifetime earnings in the state, personalized attention, and a supportive community, Carroll College is an excellent choice for students who want to excel academically and professionally, all while staying connected to their Montana roots.
Whatever highway or interstate your college-bound grad finds themselves down, it’s ‘Not for school, but for life’. Carroll College: Montana’s #1 College
Carroll College
1601 N. Benton Ave.
Helena, MT, 59625
406-447-4300
Want to learn more about Carroll College? Fill out the Prospective Student Inquiry Form.
This post sponsored by Carroll College
