Get Matched With Iowa Programs

Iowa is incredibly diversified in its stellar higher learning educational opportunities. Iowa does not offer small four-year public colleges and universities; the three primary four-year public universities comprise the majority of the undergraduate population in Iowa. These are Iowa State University, the University of Northern Iowa, and the University of Iowa. They each have extension locations and online courses so that people in rural areas, people outside of Iowa, and people in other countries are able to receive the same top educational opportunities as those who chose to attend in-state.

You will also find dozens of highly reputable, small private colleges and universities. Some of the best-known include Drake University, Grinnell College, Luther College, Central College, Simpson College, Northwestern College, and the University of Dubuque.

What are the most popular bachelor’s degrees offered in Iowa?

The industries in Iowa are diversifying and, as a result, so are the degrees. You will find that Iowa is at the top of the financial services and insurance industries in the country. Major tech industries have been moving to Iowa in recent years and Iowa leads the nation in the renewable energy industry. All of these industries impact the degree options and popularity.

Many popular degrees exist in computer science, agriculture, virtual reality, research, entrepreneurship, technology, transportation and logistics, veterinary, and community and regional planning. The following are four of the most popular bachelor’s degrees at all of the major universities:

The top degrees in Iowa include:

How Much Can You Make by Having a Degree in Iowa


Much like anywhere in the US, you have to complete a degree to make more money. With each degree you earn, you can expect that your salary will increase by roughly $10,000 to $15,000 annually. Work experience will also influence your pay. The same is true if you continue to complete certificates throughout your career as a way to improve upon your skills and to remain current in your industry and your field. Remember that online degrees provide schedule flexibility to minimize disruption to your home life and your current work life.

Education Level & National Average Median Compensation

NO FORMAL EDUCATION HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA ASSOCIATE DEGREE BACHELOR’S DEGREE MASTER’S DEGREE DOCTORAL DEGREE
$30,784* $38,792* $46,124* $64,896* $77,844* $96,772*

Compare Popular Online Iowa Programs

Top 15 Best Associate Degree Programs in Iowa


1

Northwest Iowa Community College

Score: 82.92

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,870
    • Out-of-State: $7,170
  • Net Price: $12,334
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 69%
  • Graduation Rate: 64%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,811
  • Undergrad Students: 1,811
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $41,300
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Northwest Iowa Community College
2

North Iowa Area Community College

Score: 82.86

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,196
    • Out-of-State: $8,884
  • Net Price: $6,327
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 72%
  • Graduation Rate: 55%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,479
  • Undergrad Students: 2,479
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $32,400
  • Student-to-faculty: 21:1
  • North Iowa Area Community College
3

Northeast Iowa Community College

Score: 79.68

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,270
    • Out-of-State: $6,990
  • Net Price: $7,097
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 53%
  • Graduation Rate: 49%
  • Total Enrollment: 4,355
  • Undergrad Students: 4,355
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $32,800
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Northeast Iowa Community College
4

Western Iowa Tech Community College

Score: 76.26

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $4,922
    • Out-of-State: $4,946
  • Net Price: $7,458
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 57%
  • Graduation Rate: 42%
  • Total Enrollment: 4,946
  • Undergrad Students: 4,946
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $31,300
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Western Iowa Tech Community College
5

Indian Hills Community College

Score: 74.41

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $4,680
    • Out-of-State: $6,120
  • Net Price: $7,142
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 58%
  • Graduation Rate: 36%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,361
  • Undergrad Students: 3,361
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $32,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Indian Hills Community College
6

Marshalltown Community College

Score: 72.7

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $5,184
    • Out-of-State: $5,688
  • Net Price: $7,522
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 71%
  • Graduation Rate: 35%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,707
  • Undergrad Students: 1,707
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $30,900
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • Marshalltown Community College
7

Southwestern Community College-Creston

Score: 72.43

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,784
    • Out-of-State: $7,008
  • Net Price: $9,973
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 66%
  • Graduation Rate: 52%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,581
  • Undergrad Students: 1,581
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $30,800
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • Southwestern Community College-Creston
8

Kirkwood Community College

Score: 70.84

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $5,700
    • Out-of-State: $7,604
  • Net Price: $8,413
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 67%
  • Graduation Rate: 36%
  • Total Enrollment: 12,406
  • Undergrad Students: 12,406
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $32,600
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • Kirkwood Community College
9

Eastern Iowa Community College District

Score: 70.36

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $4,488
    • Out-of-State: $6,096
  • Net Price: $7,584
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 63%
  • Graduation Rate: 39%
  • Total Enrollment: 7,145
  • Undergrad Students: 7,145
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $29,900
  • Student-to-faculty: 20:1
  • Eastern Iowa Community College District
10

Iowa Central Community College

Score: 70.26

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $5,196
    • Out-of-State: $7,398
  • Net Price: $7,984
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 53%
  • Graduation Rate: 37%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,058
  • Undergrad Students: 5,058
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $32,500
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • Iowa Central Community College
11

Southeastern Community College-West Burlington

Score: 69.19

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,210
    • Out-of-State: $6,360
  • Net Price: $9,935
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 69%
  • Graduation Rate: 39%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,476
  • Undergrad Students: 2,476
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $29,300
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Southeastern Community College-West Burlington
12

Hawkeye Community College

Score: 67.06

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,090
    • Out-of-State: $6,583
  • Net Price: $10,149
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 55%
  • Graduation Rate: 33%
  • Total Enrollment: 4,787
  • Undergrad Students: 4,787
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $33,800
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Hawkeye Community College
13

Des Moines Area Community College

Score: 66.63

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $5,340
    • Out-of-State: $10,680
  • Net Price: $9,292
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 63%
  • Graduation Rate: 34%
  • Total Enrollment: 21,637
  • Undergrad Students: 21,637
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $31,900
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • Des Moines Area Community College
14

Iowa Lakes Community College

Score: 66.16

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,004
    • Out-of-State: $7,452
  • Net Price: $11,789
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 60%
  • Graduation Rate: 37%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,960
  • Undergrad Students: 1,960
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $34,200
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • Iowa Lakes Community College
15

Iowa Western Community College

Score: 62.44

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,540
    • Out-of-State: $6,690
  • Net Price: $11,569
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 66%
  • Graduation Rate: 36%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,342
  • Undergrad Students: 5,342
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $32,200
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • Iowa Western Community College

Top 25 Best Bachelor's Programs in Iowa


1

Maharishi International University

Score: 77.85

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $16,530
    • Out-of-State: $16,530
  • Net Price: $16,979
  • Acceptance Rate: 94%
  • Retention Rate: 56%
  • Graduation Rate: 50%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,673
  • Undergrad Students: 681
  • Graduate Students: 1,992
  • Grads Salary: $102,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Maharishi International University
2

Iowa State University

Score: 76.07

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $10,133
    • Out-of-State: $26,617
  • Net Price: $15,310
  • Acceptance Rate: 90%
  • Retention Rate: 86%
  • Graduation Rate: 74%
  • Total Enrollment: 29,969
  • Undergrad Students: 25,241
  • Graduate Students: 4,728
  • Grads Salary: $72,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • Iowa State University
3

University of Iowa

Score: 73.75

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $10,353
    • Out-of-State: $32,316
  • Net Price: $19,587
  • Acceptance Rate: 86%
  • Retention Rate: 89%
  • Graduation Rate: 74%
  • Total Enrollment: 30,015
  • Undergrad Students: 21,973
  • Graduate Students: 8,042
  • Grads Salary: $72,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • University of Iowa
4

Grinnell College

Score: 73.63

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $61,480
    • Out-of-State: $61,480
  • Net Price: $33,467
  • Acceptance Rate: 11%
  • Retention Rate: 93%
  • Graduation Rate: 88%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,759
  • Undergrad Students: 1,759
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $73,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • Grinnell College
5

Clarke University

Score: 70.33

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $38,060
    • Out-of-State: $38,060
  • Net Price: $27,275
  • Acceptance Rate: 85%
  • Retention Rate: 67%
  • Graduation Rate: 58%
  • Total Enrollment: 965
  • Undergrad Students: 785
  • Graduate Students: 180
  • Grads Salary: $91,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • Clarke University
6

Central College

Score: 69.61

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $19,800
    • Out-of-State: $19,800
  • Net Price: $23,303
  • Acceptance Rate: 79%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Graduation Rate: 71%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,169
  • Undergrad Students: 1,169
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $72,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Central College
7

University of Northern Iowa

Score: 69.43

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $9,411
    • Out-of-State: $20,565
  • Net Price: $15,782
  • Acceptance Rate: 95%
  • Retention Rate: 83%
  • Graduation Rate: 64%
  • Total Enrollment: 8,945
  • Undergrad Students: 7,735
  • Graduate Students: 1,210
  • Grads Salary: $64,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • University of Northern Iowa
8

Graceland University-Lamoni

Score: 68.65

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $31,970
    • Out-of-State: $31,970
  • Net Price: $16,627
  • Acceptance Rate: 74%
  • Retention Rate: 61%
  • Graduation Rate: 48%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,237
  • Undergrad Students: 885
  • Graduate Students: 352
  • Grads Salary: $75,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Graceland University-Lamoni
9

Loras College

Score: 68

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $36,570
    • Out-of-State: $36,570
  • Net Price: $21,886
  • Acceptance Rate: 90%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
  • Graduation Rate: 68%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,319
  • Undergrad Students: 1,227
  • Graduate Students: 92
  • Grads Salary: $67,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Loras College
10

Mount Mercy University

Score: 67.96

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $37,606
    • Out-of-State: $37,606
  • Net Price: $24,078
  • Acceptance Rate: 75%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Graduation Rate: 57%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,526
  • Undergrad Students: 1,271
  • Graduate Students: 255
  • Grads Salary: $79,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Mount Mercy University
11

Luther College

Score: 67.74

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $48,160
    • Out-of-State: $48,160
  • Net Price: $25,734
  • Acceptance Rate: 75%
  • Retention Rate: 81%
  • Graduation Rate: 74%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,610
  • Undergrad Students: 1,610
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $66,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Luther College
12

Simpson College

Score: 67.47

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $45,108
    • Out-of-State: $45,108
  • Net Price: $23,185
  • Acceptance Rate: 89%
  • Retention Rate: 78%
  • Graduation Rate: 67%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,151
  • Undergrad Students: 1,127
  • Graduate Students: 24
  • Grads Salary: $67,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 10:1
  • Simpson College
13

Drake University

Score: 66.68

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $47,742
    • Out-of-State: $47,742
  • Net Price: $30,333
  • Acceptance Rate: 67%
  • Retention Rate: 83%
  • Graduation Rate: 76%
  • Total Enrollment: 4,685
  • Undergrad Students: 2,835
  • Graduate Students: 1,850
  • Grads Salary: $69,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 10:1
  • Drake University
14

Saint Ambrose University

Score: 66.37

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $34,570
    • Out-of-State: $34,570
  • Net Price: $23,359
  • Acceptance Rate: 74%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Graduation Rate: 64%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,747
  • Undergrad Students: 2,118
  • Graduate Students: 629
  • Grads Salary: $66,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Saint Ambrose University
15

Cornell College

Score: 66.01

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $49,158
    • Out-of-State: $49,158
  • Net Price: $25,686
  • Acceptance Rate: 79%
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Graduation Rate: 63%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,073
  • Undergrad Students: 1,058
  • Graduate Students: 15
  • Grads Salary: $72,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Cornell College
16

Buena Vista University

Score: 65.65

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $38,644
    • Out-of-State: $38,644
  • Net Price: $19,204
  • Acceptance Rate: 77%
  • Retention Rate: 76%
  • Graduation Rate: 58%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,973
  • Undergrad Students: 1,474
  • Graduate Students: 499
  • Grads Salary: $61,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Buena Vista University
17

Coe College

Score: 65.47

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $50,664
    • Out-of-State: $50,664
  • Net Price: $21,237
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 70%
  • Graduation Rate: 65%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,264
  • Undergrad Students: 1,264
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $63,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 10:1
  • Coe College
18

Dordt University

Score: 65.3

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $34,600
    • Out-of-State: $34,600
  • Net Price: $27,375
  • Acceptance Rate: 88%
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Graduation Rate: 67%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,861
  • Undergrad Students: 1,618
  • Graduate Students: 243
  • Grads Salary: $73,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • Dordt University
19

Wartburg College

Score: 65.15

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $49,190
    • Out-of-State: $49,190
  • Net Price: $23,683
  • Acceptance Rate: 97%
  • Retention Rate: 70%
  • Graduation Rate: 67%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,444
  • Undergrad Students: 1,416
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $68,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Wartburg College
20

Northwestern College

Score: 64.69

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $34,250
    • Out-of-State: $34,250
  • Net Price: $25,198
  • Acceptance Rate: 87%
  • Retention Rate: 78%
  • Graduation Rate: 63%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,651
  • Undergrad Students: 1,153
  • Graduate Students: 498
  • Grads Salary: $71,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Northwestern College
21

Morningside University

Score: 61.55

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $36,610
    • Out-of-State: $36,610
  • Net Price: $23,947
  • Acceptance Rate: 71%
  • Retention Rate: 65%
  • Graduation Rate: 56%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,249
  • Undergrad Students: 1,186
  • Graduate Students: 1,063
  • Grads Salary: $65,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Morningside University
22

Grand View University

Score: 61.55

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $32,068
    • Out-of-State: $32,068
  • Net Price: $20,236
  • Acceptance Rate: 98%
  • Retention Rate: 69%
  • Graduation Rate: 52%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,827
  • Undergrad Students: 1,556
  • Graduate Students: 271
  • Grads Salary: $62,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Grand View University
23

Briar Cliff University

Score: 60.77

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $34,498
    • Out-of-State: $34,498
  • Net Price: $21,620
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 68%
  • Graduation Rate: 43%
  • Total Enrollment: 927
  • Undergrad Students: 709
  • Graduate Students: 218
  • Grads Salary: $70,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Briar Cliff University
24

Iowa Wesleyan University

Score: 60.72

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $34,700
    • Out-of-State: $34,700
  • Net Price: $20,074
  • Acceptance Rate: 81%
  • Retention Rate: 54%
  • Graduation Rate: 30%
  • Total Enrollment: 871
  • Undergrad Students: 785
  • Graduate Students: 86
  • Grads Salary: $78,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Iowa Wesleyan University
25

University of Dubuque

Score: 58.01

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $38,526
    • Out-of-State: $38,526
  • Net Price: $22,879
  • Acceptance Rate: 85%
  • Retention Rate: 71%
  • Graduation Rate: 39%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,776
  • Undergrad Students: 1,444
  • Graduate Students: 332
  • Grads Salary: $63,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • University of Dubuque

Top 20 Best Master's Programs in Iowa


1

Maharishi International University

Score: 80.39

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $29,000
    • Out-of-State: $29,000
  • Net Price: $16,979
  • Acceptance Rate: 94%
  • Retention Rate: 56%
  • Graduation Rate: 50%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,673
  • Undergrad Students: 681
  • Graduate Students: 1,992
  • Grads Salary: $102,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Maharishi International University
2

Iowa State University

Score: 80.33

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $10,572
    • Out-of-State: $26,776
  • Net Price: $15,310
  • Acceptance Rate: 90%
  • Retention Rate: 86%
  • Graduation Rate: 74%
  • Total Enrollment: 29,969
  • Undergrad Students: 25,241
  • Graduate Students: 4,728
  • Grads Salary: $72,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • Iowa State University
3

University of Iowa

Score: 77.5

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $10,875
    • Out-of-State: $29,822
  • Net Price: $19,587
  • Acceptance Rate: 86%
  • Retention Rate: 89%
  • Graduation Rate: 74%
  • Total Enrollment: 30,015
  • Undergrad Students: 21,973
  • Graduate Students: 8,042
  • Grads Salary: $72,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • University of Iowa
4

University of Northern Iowa

Score: 72.88

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $9,691
    • Out-of-State: $20,774
  • Net Price: $15,782
  • Acceptance Rate: 95%
  • Retention Rate: 83%
  • Graduation Rate: 64%
  • Total Enrollment: 8,945
  • Undergrad Students: 7,735
  • Graduate Students: 1,210
  • Grads Salary: $64,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • University of Northern Iowa
5

Graceland University-Lamoni

Score: 72.23

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,688
    • Out-of-State: $11,688
  • Net Price: $16,627
  • Acceptance Rate: 74%
  • Retention Rate: 61%
  • Graduation Rate: 48%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,237
  • Undergrad Students: 885
  • Graduate Students: 352
  • Grads Salary: $75,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Graceland University-Lamoni
6

Clarke University

Score: 71.98

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $12,868
    • Out-of-State: $12,868
  • Net Price: $27,275
  • Acceptance Rate: 85%
  • Retention Rate: 67%
  • Graduation Rate: 58%
  • Total Enrollment: 965
  • Undergrad Students: 785
  • Graduate Students: 180
  • Grads Salary: $91,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • Clarke University
7

Loras College

Score: 70.82

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $13,410
    • Out-of-State: $13,410
  • Net Price: $21,886
  • Acceptance Rate: 90%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
  • Graduation Rate: 68%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,319
  • Undergrad Students: 1,227
  • Graduate Students: 92
  • Grads Salary: $67,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Loras College
8

Mount Mercy University

Score: 70.67

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,106
    • Out-of-State: $11,106
  • Net Price: $24,078
  • Acceptance Rate: 75%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Graduation Rate: 57%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,526
  • Undergrad Students: 1,271
  • Graduate Students: 255
  • Grads Salary: $79,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Mount Mercy University
9

Simpson College

Score: 70.08

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,526
    • Out-of-State: $6,526
  • Net Price: $23,185
  • Acceptance Rate: 89%
  • Retention Rate: 78%
  • Graduation Rate: 67%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,151
  • Undergrad Students: 1,127
  • Graduate Students: 24
  • Grads Salary: $67,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 10:1
  • Simpson College
10

Drake University

Score: 69.64

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,878
    • Out-of-State: $11,878
  • Net Price: $30,333
  • Acceptance Rate: 67%
  • Retention Rate: 83%
  • Graduation Rate: 76%
  • Total Enrollment: 4,685
  • Undergrad Students: 2,835
  • Graduate Students: 1,850
  • Grads Salary: $69,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 10:1
  • Drake University
11

Saint Ambrose University

Score: 69.6

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $19,040
    • Out-of-State: $19,040
  • Net Price: $23,359
  • Acceptance Rate: 74%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Graduation Rate: 64%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,747
  • Undergrad Students: 2,118
  • Graduate Students: 629
  • Grads Salary: $66,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Saint Ambrose University
12

Buena Vista University

Score: 69.15

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $9,936
    • Out-of-State: $9,936
  • Net Price: $19,204
  • Acceptance Rate: 77%
  • Retention Rate: 76%
  • Graduation Rate: 58%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,973
  • Undergrad Students: 1,474
  • Graduate Students: 499
  • Grads Salary: $61,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Buena Vista University
13

Dordt University

Score: 67.25

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $9,360
    • Out-of-State: $9,360
  • Net Price: $27,375
  • Acceptance Rate: 88%
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Graduation Rate: 67%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,861
  • Undergrad Students: 1,618
  • Graduate Students: 243
  • Grads Salary: $73,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • Dordt University
14

Wartburg College

Score: 67.2

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $13,800
    • Out-of-State: $13,800
  • Net Price: $23,683
  • Acceptance Rate: 97%
  • Retention Rate: 70%
  • Graduation Rate: 67%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,444
  • Undergrad Students: 1,416
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $68,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Wartburg College
15

Northwestern College

Score: 66.87

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,120
    • Out-of-State: $6,120
  • Net Price: $25,198
  • Acceptance Rate: 87%
  • Retention Rate: 78%
  • Graduation Rate: 63%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,651
  • Undergrad Students: 1,153
  • Graduate Students: 498
  • Grads Salary: $71,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Northwestern College
16

Morningside University

Score: 64.41

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $10,548
    • Out-of-State: $10,548
  • Net Price: $23,947
  • Acceptance Rate: 71%
  • Retention Rate: 65%
  • Graduation Rate: 56%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,249
  • Undergrad Students: 1,186
  • Graduate Students: 1,063
  • Grads Salary: $65,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Morningside University
17

Grand View University

Score: 63.47

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,730
    • Out-of-State: $8,730
  • Net Price: $20,236
  • Acceptance Rate: 98%
  • Retention Rate: 69%
  • Graduation Rate: 52%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,827
  • Undergrad Students: 1,556
  • Graduate Students: 271
  • Grads Salary: $62,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Grand View University
18

Iowa Wesleyan University

Score: 62.5

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,420
    • Out-of-State: $6,420
  • Net Price: $20,074
  • Acceptance Rate: 81%
  • Retention Rate: 54%
  • Graduation Rate: 30%
  • Total Enrollment: 871
  • Undergrad Students: 785
  • Graduate Students: 86
  • Grads Salary: $78,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Iowa Wesleyan University
19

Briar Cliff University

Score: 61.94

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,474
    • Out-of-State: $8,474
  • Net Price: $21,620
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 68%
  • Graduation Rate: 43%
  • Total Enrollment: 927
  • Undergrad Students: 709
  • Graduate Students: 218
  • Grads Salary: $70,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Briar Cliff University
20

Upper Iowa University

Score: 60.92

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $18,870
    • Out-of-State: $18,870
  • Net Price: $24,563
  • Acceptance Rate: 54%
  • Retention Rate: 57%
  • Graduation Rate: 42%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,072
  • Undergrad Students: 2,463
  • Graduate Students: 609
  • Grads Salary: $67,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Upper Iowa University

Cost of Iowa College Education & Salaries


Iowa only has three colleges and universities that are four-year public schools. They have roughly 42 four-year private schools and 16 two-year public community colleges. The cost of in-state tuition at the four-year public schools is roughly $1,000 less than the national average and significantly less than out-of-state tuition. The most reputable private schools are often more expensive than out-of-state tuition; therefore, many students choose the four-year state public schools.

The four-year public universities in Iowa have some of the best graduation rates in the nation. This is highly important to consider as you make your decision. You should also consider the number of years it will take to complete a degree program. The less time it takes for you to complete a degree the more money you save.

All three schools offer on-campus and off-campus housing and they all offer many accredited degree programs that can be completed entirely or partially online. The cost of living, activities, entertainment, and safety of the towns in which you would be residing are also significant selling points. Iowa is also a renewable energy state. You can find bike share, public transportation, charging stations, and affordable biodiesel everywhere.

The schools offer a significant portion of student employment opportunities. And you can begin internships with large corporations and SMEs for college credit at any time. For those who require financial assistance, the state offers many grant and scholarship options. Be sure to look at scholarships and grants throughout the country as many apply to students pursuing certain degrees and professions rather than simply a geographical location

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College Cost Analysis - Iowa vs National


Average Iowa Tuition & Fees at 4 Year Public Schools

In-State Tuition - $9,966

National Average – $9,580

Out-of-State Tuition – $24,521

National Average – $27,437

Percentage of Students Receiving Financial Aid

Students who choose a public college or university in Iowa will have plenty of access to state and federal financial assistance. You can choose to apply for student loans, scholarships, or grants. Each state varies in their financial assistance offerings and packages. Higher education is expensive, and a small percentage of parents pay for the entire bill. Many studies estimate that over 80% of students receive some form of financial aid in the US. It is important to pursue all options to minimize the amount of debt you have at the start of your career. Some state schools in Iowa have over 80% of their students receiving some type of financial assistance.

Financial Aid Iowa Nationally
Received Federal Grants 36% 37.7%
Average $ per Recipient $9,564 $10,927

* Institutional aid represents grant and scholarship funds directly awarded by a postsecondary institution.
* Financial aid data represents 4-year public and private nonprofit schools only.

Best Scholarships for Iowa


HSTS_logo

HSTS

The Herman Sani Tournament Scholarship

Amount: $2,000
Deadline: March 18
https://iowagolf.org/scholarships/
The Iowa Golf Association selects a number of high school seniors to be awarded a $2,000 scholarship for four years at the annual Sani Awards Banquet. Applicants must provide a self-statement, an official transcript, two letters of recommendation, and proof of financial need. All applicants must also be residents of Iowa, enrolled to an accredited college or university in the US, have a background or experience in golf, and be an active participant in extracurricular activities.

DMWC_logo

DMWC

The Des Moines Women’s Club (DMWC) Scholarships

Amount: $33,500 (Shared between recipients)
Deadline: January 20
https://www.desmoineswomensclub.com/dmwc-scholarships-1
The Des Moines Women’s Club (DMWC) provide many scholarships each year for higher education. Eleven scholarships are dedicated to high schoolers, eight to college students, and two to graduate students. These scholarships are dedicated to women. Each scholarship focuses on a different area of study, including science, technology, engineering, and math. Another scholarship is for women pursuing education. Each scholarship is different, and all recipients share the $33,500. The recipients are limited to a few select counties in Iowa and all must have a GPA over 2.75.

RDBS

The Robert D. Blue Scholarship

Amount: $500 - $1,000
Deadline: May 10
http://www.rdblue.org/requirements/
The Robert D. Blue Scholarship is administered by the Iowa State Treasurer’s Office. This tuition assistance is dedicated to young people in Iowa who demonstrate moral character, courage, ambition, trustworthiness, and scholastic ability. Applicants will require a federal tax return, an essay on good citizenship, a high school transcript and a student aid report. To be eligible, applicants must reside in Iowa, intend to attend an accredited state college in Iowa, require financial need, and maintain a full-time student status with good academic results.

AIOS

All Iowa Opportunity Scholarship

Amount: $8,368 per year
Deadline: March 1
https://iowacollegeaid.gov/DataCenter
The All Iowa Opportunity Scholarship is funded by the Iowa College Student Aid Commission (ICSAC). It is dedicated to those who require significant financial need who plan to attend a college or university in Iowa. Applicants can be in pursuit of either an associate or bachelor’s degree. Special favor will be bestowed upon those applicants who participate in alternative high schools or federal TRIO programs. The scholarship requires that applicants are an Iowa high school graduate, first-time freshman, 2.5 GPA minimum, and their Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is less than $8,368.

PEI_logo

PEI

Professional Educators of Iowa (PEI) Scholarships

Amount: $5,000
Deadline: April 1
https://peiowa.org/foundation/scholarships/
The Professional Educators of Iowa (PEI) Scholarships have a number of different scholarships dedicated to various areas, such as education and science. Some examples include the Teacher of Tomorrow Scholarship. This scholarship is dedicated to those who wish to teach in a classroom, from kindergarten to seniors in high school. The Ed Christian Memorial Scholarship is dedicated to high school seniors who wish to study science. The Child of PEI Member Scholarship is dedicated to the children of educators within the state of Iowa. All applicants must attend either a two-year or four-year college as a full-time student, must be involved in the community and the school, and they must demonstrate the need for financial assistance.

BES

Byers Environmental Scholarships

Amount: $1,000
Deadline: January 6
https://keepiowabeautiful.org/grants-scholarships/scholarships/
The Keep Iowa Beautiful (KIB) initiative awards five scholarships to young students who are passionate about living a green and environmentally friendly life. Preference is often provided to applicants who participate in the Hometown Pride Program. To apply, you must provide an essay, a list of extracurricular activities, and a transcript. Applicants must be graduating from an Iowa high school with the intent to become a full-time student in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree from an Iowa college or university. Applicants must also intend to study fields relating to sustainability, conservation, environmental science, landscape design, architecture, natural resources, or urban planning. A significant amount of experience and a background in community development is also required.

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