Carroll College is a private Catholic liberal arts institution located in Helena, Montana. Founded in the Jesuit tradition, Carroll College is recognized for its rigorous academic standards, close-knit campus community, and emphasis on ethics, service, and leadership. As a private university, Carroll maintains a consistent tuition structure for all students regardless of residency, offering a personalized educational experience supported by small class sizes and close faculty mentorship. For the 2025–2026 academic year, Carroll College has finalized its tuition and fee schedules and released a preview for the 2026–2027 academic year, allowing students and families to plan ahead with greater clarity. While the sticker price reflects the full cost before financial aid, many students reduce their actual out-of-pocket expenses through scholarships and institutional aid.
Overview of Carroll College
Carroll College delivers a mission-driven education rooted in intellectual inquiry, ethical reasoning, and community engagement. The college integrates liberal arts education with professional preparation, ensuring students graduate with both critical thinking skills and practical career readiness. Its Helena location provides access to government, healthcare, and nonprofit organizations, supporting internships and experiential learning opportunities. With a strong focus on undergraduate education, Carroll emphasizes individualized academic pathways, undergraduate research, and service learning. The campus culture promotes leadership development, civic responsibility, and academic excellence in a supportive learning environment.
Estimated Annual Tuition & Mandatory Fees (2025–2027)
As a private institution, Carroll College charges the same tuition for all students, regardless of residency.
Direct (Billable) Costs
| Category | 2025–2026 Academic Year | 2026–2027 Academic Year |
| Full-Time Tuition (12–19 credits) | ~$41,670 | ~$43,260 |
| Fixed/Standard Fees | ~$1,400 | ~$1,452 |
| Total Direct Costs | ~$43,070 | ~$44,712 |
Part-Time & Overload Rates
- Part-Time Tuition (2025–2026): $1,736 per credit (fewer than 12 credits)
- Overload Fee: Credits exceeding 19 per semester are billed at $1,736 per credit
Mandatory & Program-Specific Fees (2025–2026)
In addition to base tuition, Carroll College assesses several mandatory and program-related fees.
- Student Fee: $700 per semester (full-time students)
- Technology Fee: $60 per semester (part-time students taking fewer than 6 credits)
Program-Specific Fees
- Engineering Program Fee: $1,500 annually
- Nursing Program Fee: $1,330 annually
- Liability Fee (Health Sciences/Education): $20 annually
These fees support specialized instruction, labs, accreditation requirements, and professional preparation.
Housing and Meal Plans (2025–2026)
Room and board costs vary depending on residence hall type and meal plan selection.
Estimated Annual Housing & Meals
- Standard Room & Board: approximately $12,060 per year
Semesterly Room Rates
- Double Room (St. Charles, Guadalupe, Borromeo): $2,955
- Single Room: $3,394
- Trinity Hall (Quad or Single Bedroom): $3,578
Campus Apartments
- Monthly apartment rates range from $650 to $700 per student, depending on unit type.
Estimated Total Cost of Attendance (COA)
The total estimated annual budget for a student living on campus includes both direct and indirect costs.
2025–2026 Estimated COA
- Total: approximately $59,302
2026–2027 Estimated COA
- Total: approximately $61,478
These estimates include:
- Books and supplies: ~$800
- Transportation: ~$1,400
- Personal expenses: ~$1,900
Actual costs may vary based on lifestyle choices and housing selection.
Academic Programs at Carroll College
Carroll College offers a focused selection of undergraduate programs that blend liberal arts foundations with professional studies.
Key academic areas include:
- Biology and Health Sciences
- Nursing and Allied Health
- Engineering and Computer Science
- Business and Economics
- Education
- Political Science and Public Service
- Theology, Philosophy, and Liberal Arts
Many programs emphasize undergraduate research, clinical placements, internships, and service learning, preparing students for graduate study and professional careers.
Conclusion
Carroll College offers a high-quality private college education with a transparent tuition structure and early visibility into future costs. While the sticker price reflects the full cost of attendance, the institution’s academic rigor, small class sizes, and mission-driven approach deliver strong educational value for students seeking a personalized learning experience. For students interested in liberal arts education combined with professional preparation, Carroll College stands out as a strong option in Montana. Prospective students are encouraged to review the official Carroll College Tuition & Costs page and explore available scholarships and financial aid options to better understand their individual cost of attendance for the 2025–2027 academic years.