Clarke University Admissions Brochure

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.

TOTAL ENROLLMENT

26% DIVERSITY ON CAMPUS

62%

1,025 OF STUDENTS ARE FROM OUT OF STATE

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

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.

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

Biochemistry

Biology

Business Administration

Finance (emphasis)

Management (emphasis)

Marketing (emphasis)

Chemistry

Communication

Computer Science

Digital Media Studies

Educational Practices +

Elementary Education

Secondary Education

Education: Special Education +

English

Environmental Studies +

Graphic Design

Nutrition & Food Science +

Philosophy

Pre-Athletic Training

Pre-Dentistry

Pre-Medicine

Pre-Pharmacy

Pre-Physical Therapy, 3+3 program

Pre-Veterinary Medicine

Pre-Law, 3+3 program

Psychology

Religious Studies +

Social Welfare +

Social Work

Sociology +

Spanish Literature & Culture +

Sport Management

Writing +

Undeclared/Open

Health, Wellness & Behavioral Sciences

History

Interdisciplinary Arts

Interdisciplinary Studies

Justice & Peace Studies +

Mathematics

Music

Music Education

Nursing

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

MEGHAN, GRACIE & BROOKEDOUGLAS

If you sit down with sisters and nursing students

Brooke ’25, Gracie ’24, and Meghan Douglas ’23, 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 gerard

SECONDARY EDUCATION AND MATHEMATICS ’25

“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.

Guiding you through it all will be the Clarke Compass, a tool that allows your coursework and life experiences to shape your journey through college.

With Compass, you earn credit for many of your experiences, not just those in the classroom.

CURIOUS ABOUT COMPASS?

Let’s see how it worked for Isabelle, an education major from Dubuque, Iowa.

Isabelle started earning college credit thanks to dual enrollment courses offered at Dubuque Senior High School.

Learn more at clarke.edu/compass

YOUR

She became captain of Clarke’s Cheer and Dance Team.

EDUCATION EDUCATION YOUR WAY

Isabelle is continuing her education with Clarke as part of our Master of Arts in Education program.

Through Clarke’s Professional Development School and student teaching, she gained hundreds of hours of in-classroom experience.

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. G R

EmmaGranT

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 coach in the MARC. 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 free 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 21 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!

CAREER AND LIFE READY

Clarke 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. Far from home for the first time? Build your network with CU Linked! This initiative, led by the Clarke Social Work department connects you to food, transportation, and other community resources.

3. University Health Services & Counseling offer many types of care, education, and outreach focused on health and wellness.

4. The Margaret Mann Academic Resource Center, otherwise known as the MARC, has staff and peer coaches who can assist with writing, math, time management, and other subjects related to academic success.

5. The Black Male Leadership Society and Peer Mentoring programs pair new students with juniors and seniors who have found success at Clarke.

MEET ONE OF OUR PEER MENTORS!

“Since entering the program as a mentor last semester, I have helped others build relationships on campus sooner. All the mentors and mentees bond over shared experiences and interests.”

rory Bickler

HEALTH, WELLNESS AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES, PRE-PT ’ 24

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.”

After graduation, Rory will continue her education with Clarke in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program, with an emphasis in pediatric physical therapy and nutrition.

NICOLEMcDERMOTT

“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!

PART OF THE

PRIDE PRIDE

MEN’S Baseball

Basketball

Bowling

Cross Country

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 21 athletic teams, have fun with intramurals, and join the best college student section in town!

Football

Golf

Lacrosse

Soccer

Track and Field

Volleyball

WOMEN’S Basketball

Bowling

Cross Country

Golf

Lacrosse

Soccer

Softball

Track and Field

Volleyball

IT 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.

“Since I am paying for school myself, the financial aid I receive allows me to focus on pursuing my education and alleviating future financial burdens. At Clarke, people connect with you on a personal level and always want to help.”

SOCIAL SIDE SOCIAL SIDE SEE THE FOLLOW US!

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.

HISTORIC

daquonlewis

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-year-old sister I try to be a good role model for. I want to share all that love with others.”

SOMETHING for

know you’re going to

"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 here 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."

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

RICAR MENDS ’ 22, ’ 23M SOCIAL WORK EAST MOLINE, IL

CHRISTIAN LUNA ’ 25 LIBERAL STUDIES DUBUQUE, IA

DIEGO ARENAS ’ 22 GRAPHIC DESIGN SAN DIEGO, CA

FAITH SCHIER ’ 24 BIOLOGY

GLEN HAVEN, WI

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 MUSONDA ’25 COMPUTER SCIENCE

JOHANNESBURG, GAUTENG, SOUTH AFRICA

1550

(563)588-6316

(563)584-8666