John Carroll University
Colleges Ranking Index by Rebellion Research
“JCU was a phenomenal experience. I got to play sports and get. Good education. Parties were not great. Great gym facilities, I played Soccer.” – alumnus Meghan O’Keefe
Meghan O’Keefe | Executive Director : Tampa Bay Tech
John Carroll University (JCU), a private Jesuit higher education institution, is situated in the suburban setting of University Heights, Ohio, near Cleveland.
This predominantly undergraduate institution focuses on the liberal arts, housing both an arts and sciences college and a business school. With an established history dating back to 1886, JCU, originally St. Ignatius College, was named in honor of Ignatius of Loyola. It later took the name John Carroll in 1923, a tribute to the first Catholic archbishop in the U.S. and founder of Georgetown University.
JCU’s journey began as St. Ignatius College, established by the Society of Jesus in 1886.
Moreover, remained operational since its inception, proudly standing as one of the 28 Jesuit colleges and universities in the U.S. In 1923, it became rebranded as John Carroll University. In addition, moving to its current location in University Heights in 1935, with the high school section maintaining the original name and location. The university played a notable role during World War II, participating in the V-12 Navy College Training Program. In 1968, it transitioned to a coeducational institution.
Notably, in December 2017, JCU appointed Michael D. Johnson, PhD, a non-Jesuit, as its president, a significant milestone in its history.
Academically, JCU finds itself split into two main schools:
- The College of Arts and Sciences
- The Boler College of Business
The university emphasizes a core curriculum that includes Jesuit Heritage classes, social justice courses, and global community engagement. The College of Arts and Sciences offers a wide array of programs, while the Boler College of Business was established in 2018 through significant donations and includes schools focusing on Accountancy and Information Science, and Leadership and Social Innovation.
JCU provides a variety of graduate programs across disciplines, and boasts several international programs, allowing students to gain global perspectives.
The university offers merit-based scholarships, including the Presidential Honors Award and the Arrupe Scholars Award. JCU has consistently ranked highly in various categories by U.S. News & World Report and Forbes.
The campus architecture is predominantly Collegiate Gothic, featuring over twenty major buildings and landscaped grounds. Student life is enriched by over 100 student organizations, Greek life, and a focus on service and social action. The Center for Service & Social Action and the Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion (CSDI) play pivotal roles in campus life.
Housing is a significant aspect of the university, with a majority of students living on campus. In athletics, JCU is part of NCAA Division III, with a notable history in various sports.
Local Living Cost and Culture Review: The cost of living around University Heights and the greater Cleveland area is generally considered affordable compared to other major U.S. cities. Housing, both on and off-campus, is reasonably priced, and students can find various budget-friendly dining and entertainment options. Lastly, the area boasts a rich cultural scene, influenced by its history and diversity. Students can explore numerous museums, parks, and cultural events in Cleveland, contributing to a well-rounded university experience.
In conclusion, John Carroll University stands not only steeped in a rich educational tradition. However, also offers a rich educational experience!
Belong. Become. Be a Blue Streak | Cleveland, Ohio (jcu.edu)