Carlow University, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a private, Catholic university known for its commitment to academic excellence, social justice, and service-oriented education. Founded in 1929 by the Sisters of Mercy, Carlow has grown from a small women’s college into a coeducational institution offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The university maintains a strong focus on liberal arts, health sciences, education, business, and social work, while staying rooted in its core values of compassion, integrity, and leadership.
Foundation and Mission
Carlow University traces its origins to the vision and service of the Sisters of Mercy, an order founded in Ireland by Catherine McAuley. Inspired by her dedication to the poor and underprivileged, the Sisters established Mount Mercy College in Pittsburgh in 1929, which later became Carlow College and eventually Carlow University in 2004.
The name “Carlow” was chosen to honor County Carlow in Ireland, the ancestral home of the founding Sisters of Mercy. From its inception, the university emphasized the empowerment of women through education, and this mission has expanded to include all students who seek a values-based education rooted in mercy and compassion.
The university’s motto, “Ad Superna, non Superba” — “To the heavens, not to the proud” — reflects its commitment to humility, growth, and service.
Academic Excellence and Programs
Carlow University offers more than 40 undergraduate majors, 11 graduate programs, and several doctoral and certificate programs. The academic structure is divided across multiple schools:
1. College of Arts and Sciences
This college offers degrees in humanities, social sciences, creative writing, psychology, and more. It encourages students to develop critical thinking, communication, and ethical reasoning.
2. College of Health and Wellness
Carlow is widely recognized for its excellence in nursing, respiratory therapy, biomedical sciences, and public health. The university has partnerships with major Pittsburgh hospitals, giving students hands-on clinical experience.
3. College of Learning and Innovation
Focused on education, business, and leadership, this school equips students with the tools they need to excel as educators, administrators, and entrepreneurs. Popular programs include MBA, Education, and Organizational Leadership.
4. School for Social Change
This school brings together programs in social work, criminal justice, and community advocacy, preparing students to be changemakers in their communities.
Carlow places special emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, service-learning opportunities, and research projects that benefit both students and the wider society.
Honors, Rankings, and Recognitions
Though Carlow University may be smaller in size compared to some national institutions, it holds a strong regional reputation:
- Consistently ranked among the Best Regional Universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report
- Recognized for social mobility, helping students from modest backgrounds achieve academic and career success
- Noted for its high job placement rates, especially in nursing and education
The student-to-faculty ratio is 11:1, which allows for personalized attention and mentoring from faculty members deeply invested in student success.
Campus Life and Student Experience
Carlow University’s 13-acre urban campus is located in the Oakland neighborhood of Pittsburgh — a vibrant, student-friendly area surrounded by renowned universities, hospitals, museums, and restaurants. This location gives students easy access to internships, networking opportunities, and cultural experiences.
Student life at Carlow is active and inclusive. There are more than 30 student-led organizations, including:
- Student Government Association (SGA)
- Mercy Leaders program
- Black Student Union
- LGBTQ+ Alliance
- Campus Ministry and Service Programs
Carlow’s athletic teams, known as the Carlow Celtics, compete in NAIA Division II and include basketball, soccer, volleyball, and cross country. The university is also expanding its athletic programs with a growing emphasis on women’s sports.
Focus on Women’s Empowerment and Inclusion
Carlow University was originally founded as a college for women, and even today, it maintains a strong commitment to gender equity, women’s leadership, and inclusive education. While the university is now coeducational, it continues to prioritize programs that support women’s professional and personal development.
The Women’s Leadership Program, Grace Ann Geibel Institute for Justice and Social Responsibility, and mentorship programs provide resources and guidance for students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are woven into the university’s mission. Carlow serves a diverse student body—many of whom are first-generation college students, adult learners, and working professionals.
Online and Adult Learning Programs
Recognizing the needs of today’s learners, Carlow University offers a wide range of fully online degrees, hybrid programs, and flexible evening/weekend classes. These are especially popular among adult learners, healthcare professionals, and educators who wish to advance their careers while balancing other life responsibilities.
Online offerings include:
- RN-to-BSN and MSN Nursing programs
- Business and MBA programs
- Psychology and Counseling
- Education certifications and degrees
Carlow’s Center for Digital Learning ensures that online students receive the same quality of education and academic support as those on campus.
Community Engagement and Service
Carlow’s Catholic identity and Mercy tradition emphasize service to others, especially the marginalized. Students participate in numerous community service projects, both locally and globally. Some notable initiatives include:
- Volunteer work in Pittsburgh’s underserved communities
- Global service trips and immersion experiences
- Civic engagement campaigns and voter education
- Sustainability projects and environmental awareness programs
Through Campus Ministry, students also have access to spiritual development, interfaith dialogue, and reflection retreats.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Carlow University is committed to making education accessible and affordable. Over 95% of students receive financial aid, and the university offers generous merit-based and need-based scholarships.
Scholarship opportunities include:
- Presidential Scholarships
- Transfer and Adult Learner Scholarships
- Health Sciences and Education Incentives
- Diversity and Inclusion Scholarships
Carlow also participates in federal and state grant programs, work-study opportunities, and payment plan options to help students finance their education.
Notable Alumni and Achievements
Carlow University boasts a network of accomplished alumni who have made significant contributions in nursing, education, business, arts, and public service. Many graduates go on to hold leadership roles in:
- Major hospitals and health organizations
- School districts and universities
- Non-profit and advocacy groups
- Government and policy institutions
Carlow alumni are known for their compassionate leadership, ethical decision-making, and community involvement.
Conclusion
Carlow University continues to uphold its mission of providing a transformative education grounded in mercy values, social justice, and academic excellence. From its humble beginnings in 1929 to its current status as a forward-thinking university, Carlow has remained committed to empowering students to become thoughtful leaders, compassionate professionals, and responsible citizens.
For students seeking a close-knit learning environment with strong support systems, real-world experience, and a values-based education, Carlow University stands out as a beacon of opportunity in the heart of Pittsburgh.