Clarke University
Dubuque, Iowa 52001-3198
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for health sciences — close-knit campus
Clarke University is a private institution in Dubuque with particular strength in health sciences and business. With an average SAT of 1060, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A small campus of 782 undergraduates with a 10:1 student-faculty ratio. The urban location puts students at the center of city life.
55% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $55,396 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $20,068.
More About This School
Varsity Sports — Pride
History & Fun Facts
- •History Postcard showing the campus before the fire What is now known as Clarke University was established in 1843 as St.
- •It was one of the first such schools for women built west of the Mississippi River.
- •Mary's moved to its present location atop Dubuque's Seminary Hill (Clarke Drive) and was renamed Mount St.
- •The college became a liberal arts school in 1901, and the first bachelor's degree was awarded in 1904.
- •Joseph was chartered by the state of Iowa, becoming a four-year college by 1913.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1060
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
28.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
4.2%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$19,500
Programs (45)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
67%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
7
Peer Average
3
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus security, emergency notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from IA state average + city premium