
Dubuque, IAprivate nonprofitwww.clarke.edu/
Clarke University, a small Catholic liberal arts college in Dubuque, Iowa, punches above its weight with standout nursing and education programs, a tight-knit community, and a surprising emphasis on social mobility. With a 68% acceptance rate and an average net price of $27,275, it attracts students who want personalized attention—48% live on campus—and leave with median earnings of $44,247.
Clarke University is somewhat selective, with an Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. hovering around 68-72% ([BigFuture](https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/clarke-university/admissions), [PrepScholar](https://www.prepscholar.com/sat/s/colleges/Clarke-University-sat-scores-GPA)). Admitted students typically have SAT scores between 930–1120 or ACT composites in the mid-20s, though Test-optionalA policy where you choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you don't, the rest of your application carries more weight. policies apply. The university received 3,394 applications in a recent cycle, admitting 2,438 and enrolling 815 ([Peterson’s](https://www.petersons.com/college-search/clarke-college-000_10002155.aspx)). Notably, Clarke doesn’t require separate applications for specific programs—students can declare interests after admission ([CDS 2019-2020](https://www.clarke.edu/wp-content/uploads/CDS_2019-2020.pdf)).
Clarke offers 50+ undergraduate majors, including standout nursing and education programs praised for their rigor ([Princeton Review](https://www.princetonreview.com/college/clarke-university-1023046)). Business administration, elementary education, and nursing are the most popular ([U.S. News](https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/clarke-university-1852/academics)). The curriculum leans liberal arts, with faculty known for hands-on mentorship ([Clarke.edu](https://clarke.edu/)). Graduate programs are limited but include six options, such as physical therapy and education ([YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UlHg1ae_4b8)). Small class sizes—averaging 15 students—define the experience, though some students note variability in academic advising ([Niche](https://www.niche.com/colleges/clarke-university/campus-life/)).
Life at Clarke revolves around its compact campus and Dubuque’s riverfront charm. About 48% of students live on campus (mostly in standard doubles), while the rest commute or rent nearby ([U.S. News](https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/clarke-university-1852/student-life)). The vibe is community-oriented, with active service clubs and a TikTok-friendly culture of events like lip-sync battles ([@clarkeuniversity](https://www.tiktok.com/@clarkeuniversity/video/7538186708328713502)). Food gets high marks for variety, though dorm quality is middling ([Niche](https://www.niche.com/colleges/clarke-university/campus-life/)). Athletics (NAIA Division) and Greek life exist but aren’t dominant. Dubuque offers internships, hiking trails, and low-key nightlife—perfect for students who prefer a quieter college experience ([Campus Life](https://www.clarke.edu/campus-life/)).
Clarke’s six-year graduation rate is 63%—below the national average but strong for its demographic, earning it a Top 50 ranking for social mobility ([U.S. News](https://www.clarke.edu/news/clarke-earn-top-50-ranking-from-u-s-news-world-report/), [Quick Facts](https://clarke.edu/about-clarke/quick-facts/)). Alumni earn median salaries of $44,247 early-career, with nursing and business grads faring best ([Research.com](https://research.com/best-colleges/clarke-university/graduation-rate-and-career)). Pell Grant recipients graduate at nearly the same rate as peers, a rarity in higher ed ([HigherEdOutcomes](http://www.higheredoutcomes.com/report/graduation-rate-outcomes-summary?title=&field_ins_state_target_id=All&field_ins_sector_target_id_1=All&page=85&order=field_ins_sector&sort=desc)). The career network is tight, leveraging Dubuque’s healthcare and education employers.
Tuition and fees total $38,000+, but 100% of students receive aid, dropping the average Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. to $27,275 ([MeetYourClass](https://www.meetyourclass.com/clarke/cost), [U.S. News](https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/clarke-university-1852/paying)). Merit scholarships—for academics, arts, or athletics—are plentiful, though Need-based aidFinancial aid awarded based on your family's ability to pay, as measured by forms like the FAFSA, rather than on achievements. is less robust than at wealthier peers ([Financial Aid](https://clarke.edu/admission-aid/financial-aid/)). The net price calculator suggests most families earning under $75,000 pay under $20k annually ([Shoppingsheet](https://www.shoppingsheet.com/Shopping/Landing/clarku)).
Clarke’s Catholic identity (though welcoming to all) and Iowa work ethic shape its no-nonsense approach. The nursing program is a hidden gem, with clinical placements at Dubuque’s major hospitals. Its social mobility focus—lifting First-generation (first-gen)A student who would be the first in their immediate family to earn a four-year college degree. Many colleges consider this in context. and low-income students—earned national recognition ([U.S. News](https://www.clarke.edu/news/clarke-earn-top-50-ranking-from-u-s-news-world-report/)). Unlike flashier liberal arts colleges, Clarke thrives on practicality: small classes, strong local ties, and grads who enter the workforce debt-conscious and ready.