
3333 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA


Carlow University provides students with a variety of athletic opportunities through its participation in NCAA Division III sports. The university fields teams known as the Celtics, which compete primarily in the Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference. This affiliation enables student-athletes to engage in competitive play while balancing academic commitments, reflecting the institution's emphasis on holistic development.
Students interested in athletics can choose from multiple men's and women's sports. These include traditional options such as basketball, soccer, and volleyball, alongside other sports that cater to diverse interests. Carlow's programs focus on fostering teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship among participants.
The university supports these athletic endeavors with facilities and coaching staff aimed at enhancing the student-athlete experience. While the school promotes competitive athletics, it also encourages involvement at various skill levels to accommodate both experienced and emerging players. This approach allows prospective students to find a fitting role within the athletics community, whether aiming for high-level competition or recreational participation.
Carlow University offers a variety of student groups and associations designed to engage and support its student body. Among the key organizations are the Student Government Association, which represents the interests and voices of students; the Campus Activities Board, responsible for organizing campus events and activities; SPiRiT, a group of student ambassadors who promote university spirit and assist with outreach; the Student Nursing Association of Pennsylvania (SNAP), catering specifically to nursing students; and the Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA) for those interested in education careers.
Carlow University enrolls a diverse student body with a total of approximately 450 new students annually, consisting of nearly equal numbers of freshmen and transfer students. The incoming freshmen class size is about 226 students, which is considered average but ranks in the lower 35th percentile compared to similar institutions. Transfer student enrollment is close behind at 224 students, also in the average range and positioned in the lower 45th percentile.
The age range of students at Carlow University is broad, covering traditional college-age students as well as older learners. Among undergraduates, most fall between the ages of 18 and 21, but a substantial portion are adults aged 22 and older, including many between 25 and 49 years old. Graduate students tend to skew older, with significant numbers in their mid-20s through late 40s, reflecting a population balancing education with other life responsibilities.
In terms of racial and ethnic composition, Carlow University maintains a moderately diverse community. The largest groups include white, African American, and Hispanic students, each representing a noticeable portion of the student body, though all rank in the lower 40th percentile or below relative to peer institutions. Smaller yet present categories include Asian and Native American students, along with those identifying as multiracial or with unknown racial background.
This mixture of ages and racial backgrounds implies that Carlow University attracts both traditional-age students seeking a classic college experience and non-traditional students pursuing graduate or continuing education. Prospective students can expect an environment where many peers are balancing academic goals with varied life and career stages.
Student life at Carlow University offers a variety of cultural and wellness activities, fostering a supportive campus environment. The university supports creative engagement with active campus drama and chorus groups, providing avenues for students interested in the performing arts. While the campus does not have a radio station, band, or television outlet, those interested in other artistic expressions can participate in available programs.
Health and well-being are prioritized, with access to a health clinic and psychological counseling services on campus. These resources contribute to maintaining students' physical and mental health throughout their studies. Although there is no dedicated legal services office or women's center, the available health-related support facilities provide important resources for student wellness.
With a student-to-faculty ratio of 10 to 1, Carlow University maintains relatively small class sizes, facilitating closer student-faculty interaction and potentially more personalized academic support. The total enrollment size places the university in a smaller category compared to many institutions, which can lend itself to a close-knit community atmosphere.
On the athletic front, Carlow University is a member of both the NCAA and the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA), offering opportunities for student-athletes to engage in competitive sports at different levels.
Carlow University offers students access to the Grace Library, its main library facility. While the university has only this single library, it provides both physical and digital resources. Students benefit from established hours and trained staff to assist with various academic needs. Additionally, there is access to shared collections, enhancing the range of materials available beyond the university's own holdings.
Total enrollment
2416Full Time Degree Seeking Freshmen
171Member of Athletic Associations
Data not availableTotal staff
119 full time, 219 part timeVeterans affair office
NoMain library name
Grace LibraryNumber of libraries on campus
1Reservable study rooms in library
No24h access
NoPhysical facilities
YesAccess to digital/electronic resources
YesStaff trained to provide and interpret library materials
YesEstablished library hours
YesAccess to library collections that are shared with other institutions
Yes