DUBUQUE, IOWA
WHY GO ANYWHERE ELSE?
Hello!
We’re Clarke University but you can call us Clarke because everyone here is on a first-name basis. In the coming pages, we’ll tell you a little more about us and our home in Dubuque, Iowa and we’re most excited to learn about you, too!
If you haven’t already, we hope you’ll visit us on campus soon so we can get to know you and your goals. Bonus, you may even qualify for a visit scholarship!
*Stats from 2023-2024 school year
Since 1843, Clarke University has championed the values of freedom, education, charity, and justice in Dubuque, Iowa and throughout our region.
Founded by Mary Frances Clarke and the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, our Catholic heritage lays the foundation for our vibrant community that welcomes students of all backgrounds, empowering you to become the best and truest version of yourself.
STUDENTS FROM 41 STATES & 26 COUNTRIES
Australia • Bolivia • Brazil • Canada • Chile • Colombia • Costa Rica
El Salvador Germany • Ghana • Honduras • Ireland • Italy • Jamaica
Japan • Mexico • Netherlands • Panama • Russia • South Africa • Spain
St. Lucia • Sweden • Thailand • United Kingdom • Venezuela • Vietnam
IN PURSUIT OF PASSION
Our excellent academic programs will guarantee that you graduate as a career-and-life-ready professional. Plus, with our flexible Compass program you can choose the classes YOU are excited about.
Many of our first-year courses are designed to teach you skills you’ll use in college and beyond, like time management, organization, and more. As you progress at Clarke, you can complete research, explore special topics that matter to you as part of the Scholars program, and earn a scholarship for
“I want to be involved in everything that I can. Clarke gives you so many opportunities to be who you want to be. I want to get more involved with Campus Ministry and volunteering and be more of a leader for Clarke. God has gifted me a great opportunity here."
PROGRAMS ACADEMIC ACADEMIC
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS
Accounting
Art (Studio)
Art Education (K-8 and 5-12)
Biochemistry
Biology
Business Administration
Finance (emphasis)
Management (emphasis)
Marketing (emphasis)
Chemistry
Communication
Computer Science
Digital Media Studies
Elementary Education
Secondary Education
Education: Special Education +
Educational Practices +
English
Graphic Design
Pre-Athletic Training
Pre-Chiropractic Medicine
Pre-Dentistry
Pre-Law, 3+3 program
Pre-Medicine
Pre-Occupational Therapy
Pre-Optometry
Pre-Pharmacy
Pre-Physical Therapy, 3+3 program
Pre-Physician Assistant
Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Psychology
Religious Studies +
Social Welfare +
Social Work
Spanish Literature & Culture +
Sport Management
Writing + Undeclared/Open
Health, Wellness & Behavioral Sciences
History
Interdisciplinary Arts +
Justice & Activism +
Mathematics
Music
Music Education
Nursing
Nutrition & Food Science +
Philosophy
GRADUATE PROGRAMS
Master of Arts in Education
Master of Business Administration
Master of Social Work
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Doctor of Physical Therapy
+ Minor Only
Learn more at clarke.edu/academics
MEGHAN, GRACIE & BROOKE
If you sit down with sisters and nursing students Brooke, Gracie, and Meghan, you can feel the family bond immediately. But in 2020, they would face a challenge that would strengthen their bond even more.
“On November 2, 2020, I was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma and overnight, my whole world changed,” Meghan said.
With an aggressive treatment plan, Meghan had to take some time away from her education but her connections to Clarke remained strong. “Really, the Clarke community surrounded us all,” Gracie added. “Staff and my professors would check in with me to see how Meghan was doing, but also how Brooke and I were holding up. It’s just different here. Clarke cares.”
Meghan was able to return to Clarke and graduate with her BSN in 2023.
KAINOA
SECONDARY EDUCATION AND MATHEMATICS
“With the education classes at Clarke, I’ll have over 100 hours of in-classroom experience in Dubuque area schools, even before my formal student teaching starts. That hands-on experience matters!”
YOUR EDUCATION YOUR EDUCATION
From classmates and professors to coaches and dining staff, everyone at Clarke wants to get to know you and your unique story. This creates a community you can count on.
It starts with our Academic Advising team, who meet with all first-year and transfer student to help them make a plan for success at Clarke.
As you progress, you can earn academic credit for internships, volunteering, and more.
CURIOUS ABOUT THE CLARKE EXPERIENCE?
Let’s see how it worked for Faith, a Biology major from Glen Haven, Wisconsin
Faith earned course credit and made money as a lab assistant in our Human Gross Anatomy Lab.
She served on the Executive Board for Dance Marathon, an organization that raises money for area children fighting cancer.
YOUR
YOUR WAY EDUCATION EDUCATION
Through the 3+3 program, Faith was able to start her doctorate early, and will complete hundreds of practicum hours with real physical therapy clients.
Faith is continuing her education with Clarke as part of our Doctor of Physical Therapy program.
Whether you are an artist or athlete, interested in government or gaming, have a love of the violin or volunteering,
THERE IS A PLACE FOR YOU AT CLARKE.
GRAPHIC DE S I G N
100% of students report
“I was in the choir, I’m on the track and field team, I submit art to the Tenth Muse Literary Magazine, and I’m an Academic Support Coach. Getting involved, I’m able to pull lessons from all these different experiences and people. They make me a better student, athlete, designer, and person. Yes, it can be scary to put yourself out there, but if you keep doing things – even if you’re afraid – you will keep getting better.”
Academics are a huge part of the college experience, but there is much more to Clarke than what happens in the classroom.
Here are four of our campus favorites:
GET TO KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORS
More than a place to lay your head, our residence halls create a sense of community. Mary Josita and Mary Benedict Halls are co-ed by floor with single and double room options. Junior and Senior students may also choose from Mary Frances Hall or the Catherine Dunn Apartments.
taking part in community activities on campus and in Dubuque
CHILL BETWEEN CLASSES
Each residence hall has lounges where you can study, hang out with friends, or enjoy programming led by your resident assistant. Add the Student Activity Center, Lion’s Den
BEST BITES ON SITE
From coffee and Lotus energy drinks in the Brew & Gold Coffee Corner to delicious meals in Café 1843 and the Dining Hall, we’ve got you covered. Clarke also has snack and grocery stations around campus, so you always have food on the go!
THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING TO DO
Cheer on one of our 20 athletic teams, take part in a band or choir performance, or volunteer with one of our many student organizations — that’s just a typical Saturday at Clarke! Scan the QR code to explore some of the opportunities waiting for you!
CONNECTIONS THAT COUNT
Clarke is continually developing new resources and community connections to support you in every aspect of your life. Here are some we think you’ll want to know more about!
1. From time-honored traditions like our “Into the Streets” day of service and spring mission trips to new prayer groups and volunteer opportunities, Campus Ministry is a great way to build connections on campus and in the community.
2. Our Cupboard + Closet located in Mary Josita Hall offers clothing, food, and other resources students need. It is free and open to all.
3. University Health Services & Counseling offer many types of care, education, and outreach focused on health and wellness.
4. Home to Academic Advising, the Writing Center, Career Services, and Disability Accommodations, the Academic Support Center offers training on time management and other skills, as well as one-on-one support.
5. The Black Male Leadership Society and Peer Mentoring programs pair new students with juniors and seniors who have found success at Clarke. PSYCHOLOGY
“Since entering the program as a mentor, I have helped others build relationships on campus sooner. All the mentors and mentees bond over shared experiences and interests.”
HEALTH, WELLNESS AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES, PRE-PT; DOCTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY
Rory hones her leadership skills by serving as a Class Senator, running for Clarke Pride Cross Country and Track & Field teams, and assisting Dr. Sunil Malapati in his Food Science & Nutrition Classes. She and her friends find ways to take their education and skills off campus too.
“I took part in some of the community outreach with the Introduction to Food Science class. I toured Convivium Urban Farmstead and volunteered to tear out their tomatoes and assist with composting at the end of the season. It really gave me an appreciation for the food cycle from start to finish. More than that, it helped me see concepts from class in action. I’ve read about food deserts, but to realize it exists in my community and that there are things I can do to make an impact gives a real purpose to what I’m learning.”
Now Rory is continuing her education with Clarke in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program, with an emphasis in pediatric physical therapy and nutrition.
NICOLE
“Being a successful student-athlete, you learn skills such as communication, time management, organization, and relationship building. I have found who I really am at college, and most importantly, through the people around me, I’ve learned what it means to not be afraid to be my true self. The past three years have been a dream come true, and I am excited to live out my senior year and graduate with my best friends. Everything happens for a reason, and I’m discovering that reason here at Clarke!”
Experience the thrill of a National Championship run with this 3-minute video!
If you choose to be a student AND an athlete, your Clarke experience can be even more memorable! You can compete with one or more of our 20 athletic teams, have fun with intramurals, and join the best college student section in town!
PAYS TO PARTICIPATE
You can earn scholarships for your involvement. Learn about the opportunities waiting for you at clarke.edu/financialaid.
A SMART
INVESTMENT
Your investment in a college degree will open the door to a lifetime of earnings and rewards that otherwise might not have been attainable.
Consider us your aid ambassadors. We will review your situation and help you create an action plan for financing your education, advising, and helping you every step of the way. As a private institution, we are able to offer a variety of forms of financial assistance, which means that 100% of Clarke students receive financial aid.
Do you have a specialized skill or talent that will contribute to the larger Clarke community? Are you the first in your family to go to college?
Did you decide on Clarke during a campus visit?
THERE’S AN AWARD FOR THAT!
Clarke offers unique merit-based scholarships that recognize what you bring to the table, such as:
• Academic and Scholars Program Awards
• First generation college student awards
• Art, Design, Theater, and Music Awards for both majors and non-majors
• Referral scholarships from friends or family members who went to Clarke
• Endowed scholarships for specific majors and types of involvement
• Pride Athletic Awards for 20 NAIA athletic teams
• And more!
SOCIAL SIDE SOCIAL SIDE
OUR SIZE IS OUR STRENGTH
STRENGTH
Dubuque is the perfect college town – small enough you can get to know your classmates and neighbors, yet large enough that there is always something to do.
"GREETINGS FROM DUBUQUE" MURAL
daquon
Daquon Lewis is as local as they get – he grew up in Dubuque and attended Senior High School, just across the street from Clarke University. So what made Daquon want to stay close to home?
“When I decided on Clarke, I really felt the love from my community. I was one of the first people in my family to go to college and my mom was so proud. I have a six-yearold sister I try to be a good role model for. I want to share all that love with others.”
"On August 8, 2021 I left South Africa. It has been hard to be away from my family and friends for so long, but I had always wanted to pursue an education in the United States. Being away from home has been good for me in a lot of ways and I wouldn't be the man I am today without my time here.
In college, I’ve met people from all over the world –Portugal, Italy, France, Russia, Japan and all these places. Getting that worldview is just as important as my studies in Business and Law. If you are willing to put yourself out there, you can learn so much. With what I’ve learned and what I’ve gained her at Clarke, I am confident that I can go out into the world and be successful. I will proudly carry the Clarke Pride banner with me."
Clarke has been a part of the Dubuque community for 180 years and we know you’re going to love your new hometown.
Outdoor Adventurer – you’ll love our miles of hiking and biking trails, local and state parks, and the waterways fed by the Mississippi River.
Urban Explorer – From coffee shops and restaurants to shopping and entertainment, there are many local gems to discover.
History Buff – Tour the Dubuque Museum of Art, National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, and other historic sites!
Emerging Artist – Art is everywhere in Dubuque, from impressive street murals to live music and theatre venues featuring local and national acts.
99% of students state they feel safe to learn and explore
Want more to explore?
We’re a short drive from several major cities:
Davenport, Iowa
RENATA PSYCHOLOGY AND SOCIAL WORK SAN PEDRO SULA, HONDURAS
CHRISTIAN LIBERAL STUDIES DUBUQUE, IA
MARIA MUSIC EDUCATION DUBUQUE, IA
ISABELLE HEALTH, WELLNESS, AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES
CUBA CITY, WISCONSIN
At Clarke University, you can become the best version of yourself. Our excellent academics, engaging involvement opportunities, and strong alumni and career networks support you and all your goals. That’s how we’ve earned a reputation as not only the best university in Dubuque, but among the elite of Iowa colleges.
It’s your turn to join the Pride! ‹‹‹
JOSHUA COMPUTER SCIENCE JOHANNESBURG, GAUTENG, SOUTH AFRICA
Admissions
1550 Clarke Drive, MS 1752
Dubuque, Iowa 52001
(563)588-6316 (563)584-8666 (fax)
admissions@clarke.edu clarke.edu
