Carroll College
A Premier Institution in the Heart of Helena
Carroll College, founded in 1909 and among just nine Catholic diocesan colleges in the nation, has long been a beacon of higher education in Montana. Guided by the motto Non scholae, sed vitae—”Not for school, but for life”—Carroll provides a transformative liberal arts education rooted in intellectual growth, ethical leadership, and service. Drawing students from across the Pacific Northwest, the Northern Rockies, and beyond, the college offers a diverse and expanding range of programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of students and the workforce.
Building on this foundation of tradition and mission, Carroll’s academic strength lies in its blend of liberal arts and professional preparation. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, students benefit from personalized instruction and research opportunities in fields such as biology, political science, business, and health sciences. The college’s Core Curriculum provides a strong foundation in critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, enhancing specialized degree programs.
Experiential learning is central to a Carroll education. The Sed Vitae Experience ensures every student engages in internships, study abroad programs, service-learning projects, or research. These opportunities bridge classroom learning with practical career preparation in healthcare, engineering, education, law, and beyond.
As Carroll adapts to meet the needs of today’s students and tomorrow’s workforce, it continues to innovate with new programs and increased access to education. The college offers top-ranked programs in Anthrozoology, Nursing, Psychology, and Biology. To address workforce demands, the college has expanded its graduate and specialized programs, adding a Master of Social Work and an Accelerated Nursing track, while also in the development stages of a Physician Assistant program.
Carroll is committed to accessibility, with 99% of students receiving institutional aid. The Yellow Ribbon Program offers an affordable pathway for veterans and their dependents, while Carroll’s Pell Promise ensures eligible Pell recipients from Montana can attend tuition-free, further reinforcing Carroll’s dedication to student support.
Beyond academics, Carroll offers a vibrant campus experience rooted in community, faith, and exploration. More than 30 student organizations focus on academics, faith, service, athletics, and the arts. The college hosts over 350 annual events, from concerts and theater performances to lectures, masses, and service projects, many of which welcome the Helena community.
The Carroll Adventure and Mountaineering Program (CAMP) allows students to explore Montana’s vibrant outdoors. On campus, the Hunthausen Activity Center provides state-of-the-art fitness resources. With 97% of freshmen, sophomores, and juniors living on campus, students enjoy a close-knit environment that supports academic, spiritual, and personal growth.
This emphasis on holistic development is also reflected in Carroll’s athletic programs. The Fighting Saints compete in the Frontier and Cascade Collegiate Conferences of the NAIA. Student-athletes receive holistic support, balancing academics and sports. Facilities such as Nelson Stadium and the PE Center enhance the athletic experience for both competitors and fans.
In the fall of 2024, Carroll received the inaugural NAIA School of Character Award, recognizing its commitment to integrity, sportsmanship, and leadership. This distinction highlights the college’s dedication to developing well-rounded student-athletes who excel both on and off the field.
Supporting all of these efforts is a campus that blends tradition with innovation. Spanning 63 acres in Helena, Carroll’s beautiful campus offers a blend of historic charm and modern facilities. Recent investments include the Corette Library and Simperman Learning Commons, the E.L. Wiegand Nursing Simulation Center, and Valley Bank Field at Nelson Stadium. These resources provide students with cutting-edge learning and athletic environments.
The impact of a Carroll education reaches far beyond campus. Carroll consistently ranks as Montana’s leader in graduation rates, medical school placement, nursing NCLEX pass rates, and graduate lifetime earnings. Many graduates remain in Montana, strengthening the state’s workforce and economy.
From academic excellence to a thriving campus life, Carroll College continues to shape future leaders. Whether through innovative education, athletic success, or service-driven initiatives, Carroll remains steadfast in its mission to prepare students not for school, but for life.
To learn more about Carroll College, visit carroll.edu, or give our Admission Office a call at (406) 447-4384.
