Breaking Down the Top Iowa Colleges: A Comprehensive Guide
Find the best colleges, universities, and programs for students in Iowa. Learn about the schools’ admissions criteria, campus life, and more.
- By: The College Compass Team
Have you heard of the University of Okoboji in Iowa? It’s a fictional institution with a unique curriculum that focuses on celebration. You can purchase t-shirts with the school’s crest or participate in winter games.
Pretty cool, huh?
That said, if you put fun aside, it’s natural to doubt whether a college in Iowa is best for you. There are so many questions – will I get accepted? What sort of educational opportunities are available? Is tuition affordable? Will relocating there work with my lifestyle and goals?
Let’s discuss colleges in Iowa and see if we can help you answer any of these questions.
Types of Colleges in Iowa
Embarking on the journey to higher education in Iowa unveils a diverse spectrum of colleges and universities, catering to students’ unique aspirations, financial capabilities, and preferences.
This Midwestern gem offers three main categories of institutions: public, private, and community colleges.
Public Colleges in Iowa: Accessible Education for All
In Iowa, state-funded public colleges have lower tuition fees compared to others, which is why they are a popular option among in-state students.
There are three public universities in Iowa: the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, and Northern Iowa University. Each university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in various academic fields and access to research centers and resources.
No. of colleges: 3 public universities with 4-year programs.
General admissions requirements: a high school diploma or GED equivalent, a minimum GPA requirement, and SAT or ACT scores
Private Colleges in Iowa: Intimate Learning Experiences
In contrast, private colleges rely on tuition fees, endowments, and donations for operational expenses. These schools tend to be smaller than their public counterparts, and although they often impose higher tuition fees, they compensate through generous financial aid packages.
No. of colleges: 35 non-profit private universities
General admissions requirements: a minimum GPA requirement and SAT or ACT scores; College prep courses.
Community Colleges in Iowa: Affordable Pathways to Success
One trend that has been on the rise in recent years is the popularity of community colleges in the state. These institutions offer affordable tuition, flexible schedules, and career-oriented programs that prepare students for the workforce.
In fact, one-third of Iowa’s college students attend community colleges.
No. of colleges: 15 community colleges.
General admissions requirements: Official high school transcript or GED; Completed admissions application.
*Note: individual schools may have additional requirements or preferences, such as letters of recommendation or essays.
Popular Colleges in Iowa
Now, we know that not all colleges are built the same. The principle is to get you to earn your degree, but the ways to do that can vary. That’s why there are multiple Iowa colleges to choose from, so you can find the one that’s just for you.
These schools are known for their academic excellence, strong campus communities, and dedication to their students.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the top most popular colleges in Iowa.
University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA
The University of Iowa is an incredible place to pursue higher education, with a history of many years. As the second-largest university in Iowa, it’s home to more than 32,000 students studying everything from undergraduate to professional programs.
One of the things that makes it so unique is its commitment to equality. It was the first public university in the United States to admit both men and women on an equal basis, paving the way for greater opportunities in education.
The university is a proud member of the Big Ten Conference and boasts an outstanding athletic program that has produced 26 national championships spanning various sports such as football, wrestling, and field hockey.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$10,353
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Less Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Bachelors, Masters & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Health and Physical Education
• Finance and Financial Management
• Psychology
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration
• Business Administration, Management, and Operations
Grinnell College
Grinnell, IA
Grinnell College is an outstanding liberal arts college that is very selective and known for its dedication to academic excellence and social justice. The college’s diverse student body offers degrees in 27 majors, emphasizing independent research and interdisciplinary studies.
If you enroll in Grinnell College, you can opt for a truly unique experience with its “Individually Advised Curriculum,” which allows you to craft your learning journey without restrictive general education requirements.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$61,480
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, Not For Profit
Enrollment
Very Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
19%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Bachelor's
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Computer Science
• Biology
• Research and Experimental Psychology
• Political Science and Government
• Mathematics
Iowa State University
Ames, IA
Iowa State University is a premier public university in the Midwest that offers more than 100 majors and over 400 student organizations to students from all 50 states.
In addition to its academic excellence, ISU is known for its extensive extracurricular activities, such as student clubs and organizations. The university also boasts an impressive array of research centers and institutes dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge.
It houses various collaborative research centers, such as The Ames Laboratory and the NSF Engineering Research Center for Biorenewable Chemicals – two of its most prominent institutes.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$10,133
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Less Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Bachelors, Masters & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Mechanical Engineering
• Business Administration, Management, and Operations
• Marketing
• Agricultural Business and Management
• Finance and Financial Management
Drake University
Des Moines, IA
Founded in 1881, Drake has become one of the premier universities in the Midwest. Among its seven colleges and schools and more than 100 academic programs available, Drake provides an excellent education for its students.
Drake University has something unique that makes it stand out—a live bulldog mascot named Griff! He proudly represents the entire university all year round, appearing at sporting events, ceremonies, and more.
To showcase their athletic prowess, the Drake Bulldogs compete in NCAA Division I as Missouri Valley Conference and Pioneer Football League members. Their intercollegiate athletics program provides opportunities for eight men’s sports and ten women’s teams.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$47,742
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, Not For Profit
Enrollment
Selective
SAT
Considered but not required
Graduation Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Bachelors, Masters & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
• Marketing
• Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
• Finance and Financial Management
• Accounting
Luther College
Decorah, IA
Luther College offers a plethora of extraordinary academic concentrations and pre-professional programs, granting bachelor’s degrees in over 60 majors. Moreover, if music is your passion, you’ll quickly find it alive on campus— with six choral ensembles and 11 instrumental groups available.
Luther College is proud of its roots in Nordic countries, with much of the student body and faculty having ancestry from Norway, Sweden, Denmark, or Finland. As a result, special programs are held to honor this heritage – one such example being the joyous Nordic Fest that brings thousands together annually to Decorah!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$48,160
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, Not For Profit
Enrollment
Selective
SAT
Considered but not required
Graduation Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Bachelor
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Business Administration, Management, and Operations
• Music
• Biology
• Research and Experimental Psychology
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA
UNI has a rich history of academic excellence and offers over 90 undergraduate and graduate degree programs – all designed to equip students with the skills needed for success.
At UNI, they pride themselves in creating a warm and welcoming environment for prospective students – with a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1. Moreover, the campus has more than 250 student organizations to choose from – ranging from academic groups to cultural clubs and recreational activities, making it easier for you to discover your place here among lifelong friends.
For sports enthusiasts, UNI is also home to the Panthers, its Division I athletics program
Avg. Tuition Cost
$9,411
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Less Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
66%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Bachelor, Masters & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Business Administration, Management, and Operations
• Marketing
• Psychology
• Teacher Education and Professional Development
• Finance and Financial Management Services
Cornell College
Mount Vernon, IA
Cornell College is an esteemed private liberal arts college dedicated to excellence and academic success. It proudly hosts a student body of approximately 1,000 individuals who experience a close-knit community with lasting relationships among peers and professors.
One of the most unique aspects of Cornell College is its One Course At A Time (OCAAT) academic schedule. Instead of juggling multiple classes at once, students focus on just one course in 18-day blocks. This allows for immersive and intensive learning experiences and opportunities for off-campus study and internships.
Cornell College has long been at the forefront of progress. In fact, it was a trailblazer in many ways-being, the first college to graduate female students in Iowa and setting an example by paying equal salaries to its male and female professors alike.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$49,158
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, Not For Profit
Enrollment
Less Selective
SAT
Considered but not required
Graduation Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Bachelor
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness
• Teacher Education and Professional Development
• Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Molecular Biology
• History
• Computer Science
Dordt University
Sioux Center, IA
Boasting a top-tier reputation, Dordt University is an acclaimed private Christian that, since its founding in 1955, has become one of the Midwest’s most distinguished liberal arts institutions.
One of the unique features of Dordt University is its commitment to a Reformed Christian worldview. The university integrates faith and learning in all its programs, providing a holistic education that prepares students for life beyond the classroom. It offers over 40 undergraduate degrees and 11 pre-professional programs, including nursing, engineering, and education.
Did you know that Dordt University is devoted to sustainability? The university has taken multiple steps to reduce its carbon footprint and protect our planet.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$34,600
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, Not For Profit
Enrollment
Less Selective
SAT
Considered but not required
Graduation Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
72%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Associate, Bachelor's, and Master's
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Teacher Education and Professional Development
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research, and Clinical Nursing
• Psychology
• Finance and Financial Management
• Accounting and Related Services
Coe College
Cedar Rapids, IA
Coe College is a private liberal arts college that provides its students with a vibrant and supportive learning community.
Here you’ll get a comprehensive college experience where everyone can get an internship, research placement, or off-campus study. On top of this assurance, nearly 40% of attendees double major and still graduate in four years.
The college is praised for its dedication to sustainability, partly due to its extraordinary initiatives, such as installing solar panels and establishing composting programs, all while lessening its carbon footprint. Students passionate about environmental issues will find a welcoming community at Coe College.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$50,664
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, Not For Profit
Enrollment
Less Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Classes
On-campus
Types Of Degrees
Bachelor
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Physics
• Biology
• Psychology
• Business Administration, Management, and Operations
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research, and Clinical Nursing
Disclaimer:
All of the data about acceptance rates, graduation rates, tuition costs, and other relevant details for the list of popular colleges in Kansas mentioned above is sourced from CollegeScoreCard by the U.S. Department of Education and each college’s respective official website.
Please use the information and data provided only as a general guideline and verify it before making decisions based on it.
Accreditation for Colleges in Iowa
The responsible accrediting body for colleges and universities in Iowa is the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a regional accrediting agency that accredits colleges and universities in 19 states, including Iowa.
HLC is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), the two leading organizations overseeing accreditation in the United States.
Tips for Students When Choosing a College in Iowa
- Think about your goals before choosing a college in Iowa.
- Analyze the pros and cons of attending a college in Iowa.
- Research current and former students’ reviews to gain insight into the school’s overall experience.
- Consider the budget when making a decision, as tuition costs vary between institutions.
- Research financial aid and scholarships when choosing a college in Iowa; after all, tuition costs add up quickly!
– To apply for financial aid, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) available online. This application allows you to determine if you qualify for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Then, check out each school’s website or call their admissions office directly and ask about any grants or scholarships available specifically for new students enrolling at that institution. You can find more information about financial aid and scholarships at Iowa College Aid and Iowa Student Loan. - Find out if there are any unique degree programs you can get only at a college in Iowa.
- Start your search for internships early and take advantage of career resources provided by your school.
- Look into extracurricular activities offered and support services for students.
Why Study in Iowa?
Considering Iowa for further education or career opportunities can be wise due to its rich history, diverse culture, and thriving economy.
Iowa boasts bustling cities, thriving rural communities, and vast nature reserves. Additionally, the state offers impressive economic advantages.
Pros of going to college in Iowa:
- Wide variety of choices with over 70 colleges and universities
- Relatively low cost of living
- High quality of education
- Safe and welcoming environment
Cons of going to college in Iowa:
- Cold climate
- Limited job opportunities
- Lack of diversity
- Rural setting
Number of Students & Demographics
208,220 students, 51.6% are female.
Popular Student Areas
Iowa City, Ames, Cedar Rapids, Des Moines
Avg. Tuition Cost
$35,744
*Based on colleges listed above
Career Outlook for Students in Iowa
According to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the unemployment rate in Iowa was 2.9% as of February 2023, which is lower than the national average.
Also, reports from the BLS show the median hourly wage across all occupations is $51,140, slightly below the national median salary of $58,260. However, wages vary widely by occupation; some jobs pay significantly more than others.
Popular Career Paths for Students in Iowa:
- Office and Administrative Support Occupations
- Transportation and Material Moving Occupations
- Sales and Related Occupations
- Production Occupations
- Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations
- Educational Instruction and Library Occupations
- Management Occupations
- Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Occupations
FAQ about Colleges in Iowa
Grinnell College is the most selective and hardest college to get into in Iowa. The college has an acceptance rate of around 19% and requires a solid academic record, test scores, and extracurricular activities.
Several Iowa colleges are less selective and easier to enroll in, including Iowa State University, University of Iowa, and Cornell College. These colleges have acceptance rates ranging from 80% to 88%.
The University of Iowa is the largest college in Iowa, with a total enrollment of 31,317 in the Fall of 2022. Iowa State University is the second-largest college in Iowa, with over 27,000 students enrolled in Spring 2023. Other large colleges in Iowa include the University of Northern Iowa and Drake University.
In Iowa, colleges provide a diverse selection of majors and programs across multiple fields, such as agriculture, business, education, engineering, health sciences, liberal arts, and sciences, among others.
Each college may have unique programs and strengths, so it’s important to research individual colleges to find the programs that align with your interests and goals.
Campus life at Iowa colleges can vary greatly depending on the size and location of the institution. Some colleges, like the University of Iowa and Iowa State University, have large campuses with diverse student populations and various activities, clubs, and events.
Others, like smaller liberal arts colleges, may offer a more close-knit community with smaller class sizes and a focus on undergraduate research and engagement.
Visiting college websites, taking campus tours, and speaking with current students can give you insight into the campus life experience at Iowa colleges.
Some colleges in Iowa offer free tuition programs for senior citizens, including:
- Iowa State University: Iowa State University offers a Senior Citizen Tuition Exemption program that allows Iowa residents aged 65 and over to take courses for credit without paying tuition.
- University of Iowa: The University of Iowa offers a Senior College program that allows Iowa residents aged 60 and over to audit courses for free on a space-available basis.
- Eastern Iowa Community College District: The Eastern Iowa Community College District offers a Senior Citizen Tuition Waiver program that allows Iowa residents aged 65 and over to take courses for credit without paying tuition.
The availability of housing options in Iowa depends on the specific college you attend. On-campus housing is available at some colleges but not all.
The transportation options also vary based on the college’s location. Urban colleges in Iowa typically have access to public transportation, while rural colleges may require a car.
Yes, research opportunities are available at Iowa colleges and universities. You can get involved in research by contacting faculty members or research centers at your college or university.
Many colleges in Iowa also offer research programs specifically for undergraduate students, such as the Iowa Center for Research by Undergraduates at the University of Iowa.
Summary
As you saw, many colleges are available to choose from in Iowa. These colleges provide excellent academic opportunities, a positive campus experience, and reliable support systems.
Plus, studying in Iowa offers several benefits, including affordable living costs, a secure environment, and access to a first-rate education.
Don’t hesitate to explore Iowa’s college’s unique programs and opportunities, and remember that the right college can help shape your future.
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