Best Christian Colleges in Iowa 2024

Badge for BEST IN IOWA CHRISTIAN COLLEGES
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Jenn Finley
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • The 19 Christian colleges in our ranking have small student bodies and more opportunity to interact with faculty.
  • Attending a Christian college in Iowa allows students to learn about and practice their faith while receiving an excellent education.
  • Students studying at a Christian college in Iowa are still eligible for financial aid as long as the school is regionally accredited.

10 Best Christian Colleges in Iowa

Sort by:
  1. Coe College
  2. Cornell College
  3. Luther College
  4. Loras College
  5. Graceland University
  6. Clarke University
  7. Simpson College
  8. Wartburg College
  9. St. Ambrose University
  10. University of Dubuque
  1. Coe College
  2. Cornell College
  3. Luther College
  4. Loras College
  5. Graceland University
  6. Clarke University
  7. Simpson College
  8. Wartburg College
  9. St. Ambrose University
  10. University of Dubuque
  1. Grand View University 98%
  2. Wartburg College 97%
  3. Loras College 90%
  4. Simpson College 89%
  5. Dordt University 88%
  6. Northwestern College 87%
  7. Clarke University 85%
  8. University of Dubuque 85%
  9. Cornell College 79%
  10. Central College 79%
  1. William Penn University 18 to 1
  2. Northwestern College 15 to 1
  3. Dordt University 14 to 1
  4. Mount Mercy University 13 to 1
  5. Cornell College 13 to 1
  6. Wartburg College 13 to 1
  7. Central College 13 to 1
  8. Graceland University 13 to 1
  9. Morningside University 13 to 1
  10. Loras College 12 to 1
  1. Coe College $50,664
  2. Wartburg College $49,190
  3. Cornell College $49,158
  4. Luther College $48,160
  5. Simpson College $45,108
  6. Buena Vista University $38,644
  7. University of Dubuque $38,526
  8. Clarke University $38,060
  9. Mount Mercy University $37,606
  10. Morningside University $36,610
  1. St. Ambrose University $19,040
  2. Cornell College $14,850
  3. Wartburg College $13,800
  4. Loras College $13,410
  5. Clarke University $12,868
  6. Graceland University $11,688
  7. Mount Mercy University $11,106
  8. Morningside University $10,548
  9. William Penn University $10,500
  10. Buena Vista University $9,936
  1. Dordt University
  2. Morningside University
  3. Buena Vista University
  4. Northwestern College
  5. Briar Cliff University
  6. Mount Mercy University
  7. Grand View University
  8. William Penn University
  9. Central College
  10. University of Dubuque
  1. Dordt University
  2. Morningside University
  3. Buena Vista University
  4. Northwestern College
  5. Briar Cliff University
  6. Mount Mercy University
  7. Grand View University
  8. William Penn University
  9. Central College
  10. University of Dubuque
  1. William Penn University 58%
  2. Morningside University 71%
  3. St. Ambrose University 74%
  4. Graceland University 74%
  5. Mount Mercy University 75%
  6. Luther College 75%
  7. Buena Vista University 77%
  8. Central College 79%
  9. Cornell College 79%
  10. University of Dubuque 85%
  1. University of Dubuque 9 to 1
  2. Clarke University 9 to 1
  3. Coe College 10 to 1
  4. Simpson College 10 to 1
  5. Luther College 11 to 1
  6. Loras College 12 to 1
  7. Briar Cliff University 12 to 1
  8. Grand View University 12 to 1
  9. St. Ambrose University 12 to 1
  10. Buena Vista University 12 to 1
  1. Central College $19,800
  2. William Penn University $27,800
  3. Graceland University $31,970
  4. Grand View University $32,068
  5. Northwestern College $34,250
  6. Briar Cliff University $34,498
  7. St. Ambrose University $34,570
  8. Dordt University $34,600
  9. Loras College $36,570
  10. Morningside University $36,610
  1. Northwestern College $6,120
  2. Simpson College $6,526
  3. University of Dubuque $7,440
  4. Briar Cliff University $8,474
  5. Grand View University $8,730
  6. Dordt University $9,360
  7. Buena Vista University $9,936
  8. William Penn University $10,500
  9. Morningside University $10,548
  10. Mount Mercy University $11,106

Colleges and Universities in Iowa

With a large number of both brick-and-mortar and online colleges in Iowa, students have plenty of great schools to choose from, and nearly half of the schools in the state are religiously affiliated.

Our ranking of the best Christian colleges in Iowa includes 19 schools that self-identify as Christian, are fully accredited, and offer a broad range of bachelor degree programs.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.


What are Iowa’s Colleges & Universities?

Iowa’s Best Overall

student studying the Bible and writing in a journal
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Best Christian Colleges in Iowa

  1. #1

    Coe College

    Cedar Rapids , IA
    #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Iowa 2025 #3 Best Small Colleges in Iowa 2025 #7 Best Private Colleges in Iowa 2024 #10 Best Colleges in Iowa 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $51K

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Coe College

    Cost of Degree: $52,576
    Expenses: $15,136
    Starting Salary: $50,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Coe College is a liberal arts college affiliated with the Presbyterian Church.

    What we love about Coe College:

    Coe College’s academic offerings include a wide range of fields of discipline and several pre-professional programs.

    Coe College is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a college with interdisciplinary degree program offerings.

    Coe College may not be ideal for students who:

    Might prefer a college located in a quiet, rural setting.

    Compare school
  2. #2

    Cornell College

    Mount Vernon , IA
    #3 Best Private Colleges in Iowa 2024 #5 Best Small Colleges in Iowa 2025 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Iowa 2025 #6 Best Colleges in Iowa 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $49K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1275/26

    Career Outlook for degree at Cornell College

    Cost of Degree: $50,634
    Expenses: $15,718
    Starting Salary: $45,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Cornell College is a small liberal arts college east of Cedar Rapids.

    What we love about Cornell College:

    The college is known for its trademark One Course At A Time approach to learning and its Ingenuity curriculum.

    Cornell College is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a college known for its innovative curriculum.

    May not be ideal for students who:

    Might be looking for a larger university with a wider range of academic offerings.

    Cornell College’s Online Degrees

    BFA/MFA in Fine Arts
    Degree Concentrations
    • Creative Writing Low-Residency
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
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  3. #3

    Luther College

    Decorah , IA
    #4 Best Private Colleges in Iowa 2024 #6 Best Small Colleges in Iowa 2025 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Iowa 2025 #7 Best Colleges in Iowa 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $48K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1202/25

    Career Outlook for degree at Luther College

    Cost of Degree: $50,320
    Expenses: $15,235
    Starting Salary: $53,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Luther College was established in 1861.

    What we love about Luther College:

    It offers a wide range of on-campus housing for students.

    Luther College is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a supportive learning community with solid academics.

    Luther College may not be ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a college that also offers graduate degrees.

    Compare school
  4. #4

    Loras College

    Dubuque , IA
    #5 Best Private Colleges in Iowa 2024 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #7 Best Small Colleges in Iowa 2025 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Iowa 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Loras College

    Cost of Degree: $38,298
    Expenses: $12,543
    Starting Salary: $50,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Loras College was the first higher education institution in Iowa, founded back in 1839.

    What we love about Loras College:

    Its downtown Dubuque location gives access to various cultural and other extra-curricular activities.

    Loras College is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a college with graduate degrees they can potentially enroll into right after graduation.

    Loras College may not be ideal for students who:

    Might not readily fit with the college’s Catholic approach and tradition.

    Compare school
  5. #5

    Graceland University

    Lamoni , IA
    #8 Best Small Colleges in Iowa 2025 #8 Best Private Colleges in Iowa 2024 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Iowa 2025 #21 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees

    Tuition + fees

    $32K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Graceland University

    Cost of Degree: $33,646
    Expenses: $15,240
    Starting Salary: $40,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Graceland University is located in Lamoni, Iowa and is affiliated with the Community of Christ. It has another campus in Independence, Missouri.

    What we love about Graceland University:

    Graceland University has adult learner-oriented flexible programs and a professional continuing education program.

    Graceland University is ideal for students who:

    Have academic credits on hand and are looking for good degree completion programs.

    Graceland University may not be ideal for students who:

    Seek to enroll in a STEM degree program, which is not considered a strength of Graceland.

    Graceland University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 141
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 62
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 108
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  7. #6

    Clarke University

    Dubuque , IA
    #8 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #4 Best Research Universities in Iowa 2025 #5 Best Online Colleges in Iowa 2024 #11 Best Online Master's Programs in Iowa 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $38K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    58%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1040/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Clarke University

    Cost of Degree: $39,600
    Expenses: $15,888
    Starting Salary: $44,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Clarke University is a Catholic university in Dubuque and is a next-door neighbor to Loras College.

    What we love about Clarke University:

    Given its city location, students at Clarke also enjoy a wide range of extra-curricular and cultural opportunities at Dubuque.

    Clarke University is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a school with solid academics, as well as a tight-knit community and strong alumni networks.

    Clarke University may not be ideal for students who:

    May not necessarily conform to the Catholic tradition.

    Clarke University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 31
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  8. #7

    Simpson College

    Indianola , IA
    #10 Best Online Master's Programs in Iowa 2024 #11 Best Online Colleges in Iowa 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $45K

    Acceptance

    89%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Simpson College

    Cost of Degree: $46,212
    Expenses: $15,352
    Starting Salary: $51,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Simpson College is affiliated with the United Methodist Church. It is located in Indianola, south of Des Moines.

    What we love about Simpson College:

    Simpson College offers students a number of study abroad, research, and other academic opportunities.

    Simpson College is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a college with an innovative curriculum and ample extra-curricular opportunities.

    Simpson College may not be ideal for students who:

    Prefer to study in a big-city environment.

    Simpson College’s Online Degrees

    BA in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BA in Computer Information System
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BA in Human Services
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BA in Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Management Information Systems
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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    9. Bible study with a close-up of a student's hands on a Bible
  9. #8

    Wartburg College

    Waverly , IA
    #10 Best Small Colleges in Iowa 2025 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Iowa 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $49K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1045/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Wartburg College

    Cost of Degree: $51,040
    Expenses: $13,462
    Starting Salary: $50,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Wartburg College is a Lutheran liberal arts college in the city of Waverly. It is named after a German castle that was a key location in the history of the Reformation.

    What we love about Wartburg College:

    Aside from its academics, Wartburg College is well known for its athletic programs.

    Wartburg College is ideal for students who:

    Want to take advantage of study abroad opportunities.

    Wartburg College may not be ideal for students who:

    Might also be looking for a school with a wide range of graduate programs.

    Compare school
  11. #9

    St. Ambrose University

    Davenport , IA
    #5 Best Grad Schools in Iowa 2025 #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Iowa #7 Best Online MBA Programs in Iowa #9 Best Online Master's Programs in Iowa 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    64%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1130/23

    Career Outlook for degree at St. Ambrose University

    Cost of Degree: $35,598
    Expenses: $17,206
    Starting Salary: $50,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    St. Ambrose University is a Roman Catholic university, first established in 1882 as a seminary & school of commerce.

    What we love about Saint Ambrose University:

    Saint Ambrose University has a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs right up to the doctoral level, as well as some online programs.

    Saint Ambrose University is ideal for students who:

    Might be looking for somewhere with a wide range of academic offerings in the health sciences.

    Saint Ambrose University may not be ideal for students who:

    Are from a religious background different from the Catholic church.

    St. Ambrose University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Applied Management Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accounting Management
    • Cybersecurity Management
    • Human Resources Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  12. #10

    University of Dubuque

    Dubuque , IA
    #8 Best Online Master's Programs in Iowa 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $39K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    39%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Dubuque

    Cost of Degree: $40,065
    Expenses: $14,370
    Starting Salary: $42,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The University of Dubuque was founded in 1852 and shares its home city with Loras College.

    What we love about the University of Dubuque:

    Around 99% of its students receive some form of financial aid.

    The University of Dubuque is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a university with specialized adult-oriented accelerated degree programs.

    The University of Dubuque may not be ideal for students who:

    Might be looking to enroll in an Engineering degree program.

    Compare school
  13. #11

    Central College

    Pella , IA

    Tuition + fees

    $20K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    71%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1129/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Central College

    Cost of Degree: $20,988
    Expenses: $16,737
    Starting Salary: $48,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Central College was established in 1853. It is affiliated with the Reformed Church of America (RCA).

    What we love about Central College:

    Its home city of Pella is known for its Dutch heritage, culture, and attractions. This is also evident in Central College’s campus.

    Central College is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a college with good pre-professional programs and solid athletics.

    Central College may not be ideal for students who:

    Might be more interested in campuses with a more urban or big-city vibe.

    Compare school
  14. #12

    William Penn University

    Oskaloosa , IA
    #15 Best Online Colleges in Iowa 2024 #15 Best Online Master's Programs in Iowa 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $28K

    Acceptance

    58%

    Graduation

    30%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    965/18

    Career Outlook for degree at William Penn University

    Cost of Degree: $28,750
    Expenses: $15,050
    Starting Salary: $46,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    William Penn University is affiliated with the Quakers and was founded in 1873.

    What we love about William Penn University:

    William Penn has a storied campus that’s listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

    William Penn University is ideal for students who:

    Might be looking for a university with a good range of online degree options.

    William Penn University may not be ideal for students who:

    Prefer studying in a big-city/highly urban campus.

    William Penn University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Human Resource Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Human Services
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 86
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Business Management
    • Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management
    • General Accounting
    • Public Accounting
    • Human Resource Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  15. #13

    Grand View University

    Des Moines , IA
    #9 Best Private Colleges in Iowa 2024 #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Iowa 2024 #9 Best Online Colleges in Iowa 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $32K

    Acceptance

    98%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Grand View University

    Cost of Degree: $33,450
    Expenses: $18,426
    Starting Salary: $45,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Grand View University in Des Moines is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church.

    What we love about Grand View University:

    Students can combine their majors, minors, and certificates into a more customized degree.

    Grand View University is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a university that also offers degrees in online & evening formats.

    Grand View University may not be ideal for students who:

    Might be looking for a university with a path to the doctorate level.

    Grand View University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 65-66
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Finance
    • Human Resource Management
    • Management
    • Required Credits: 48-50
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 53
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 26
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Liberal Arts
    • Required Credits: 42
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Social Work
    • Required Credits: 58
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  17. #14

    Mount Mercy University

    Cedar Rapids , IA
    #6 Best Grad Schools in Iowa 2025 #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024 #8 Best Online MBA Programs in Iowa #13 Best Online Master's Programs in Iowa 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $38K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    57%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Mount Mercy University

    Cost of Degree: $39,070
    Expenses: $16,930
    Starting Salary: $48,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Mount Mercy University is affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church and was established in 1928.

    What we love about Mount Mercy University:

    Its students can take part in mentorship, research, internship, and study abroad opportunities.

    Mount Mercy University is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a university that also has good athletic programs.

    Mount Mercy University may not be ideal for students who:

    Might be looking for a wide range of STEM degree programs they can choose from.

    Mount Mercy University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Applied Management
    • Required Credits: 34
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BA in Healthcare Administration
    • Required Credits: 58-61.5
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accounting
    • Finance
    • Marketing
    • Management
    • Human Resource Management
    • Sport Management
    • Required Credits: 34-36
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Religious Studies
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  18. #15

    Briar Cliff University

    Sioux City , IA
    #13 Best Online Colleges in Iowa 2024 #23 Best Online Bachelor’s of Health Science Degree Programs Ranked for 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Graduation

    43%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Briar Cliff University

    Cost of Degree: $34,727
    Expenses: $16,308
    Starting Salary: $44,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Briar Cliff University is affiliated with the Franciscans (of the Catholic Church) and was established in 1930.

    What we love about Briar Cliff University:

    It’s not just the robust academics; Briar Cliff is located on a hill overlooking Sioux City, which also has its own set of historical and cultural attractions.

    Briar Cliff University is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a more tight-knit learning community with a wide range of academic offerings they can choose from.

    Briar Cliff University may not be ideal for students who:

    Might prefer Briar Cliff’s emphasis on Catholic values and traditions.

    Briar Cliff University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Sciences
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 30-34
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Operations Management
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  19. #16

    Northwestern College

    Orange City , IA
    #8 Most Affordable Early Childhood Education Bachelor's (Online, On-Campus) 2025 #12 Best Online Colleges in Iowa 2024 #17 Best Online Master's Programs in Iowa 2024 #19 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Northwestern College

    Cost of Degree: $35,300
    Expenses: $15,000
    Starting Salary: $40,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Northwestern College is affiliated with the Reformed Church in America (RCA) and was first established in 1832.

    What we love about Northwestern College:

    Northwestern College also offers graduate and adult-oriented programs.

    Northwestern College is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for pre-professional degree programs.

    Northwestern College may not be ideal for students who:

    May be looking for specialized engineering programs.

    Northwestern College ’s Online Degrees

    BA in Early Childhood
    • Required Credits: 33
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  20. #17

    Buena Vista University

    Storm Lake , IA
    #12 Best Online Master's Programs in Iowa 2024 #22 Best Online Master's in Behavior Analysis Degree Programs

    Tuition + fees

    $39K

    Acceptance

    77%

    Graduation

    58%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1030/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Buena Vista University

    Cost of Degree: $40,190
    Expenses: $14,589
    Starting Salary: $42,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Buena Vista University has ties to the Presbyterian Church and was founded in 1891.

    What we love about Buena Vista University:

    Its location at the shore of Storm Lake adds a unique dimension to its student life.

    Buena Vista University is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for degree programs related to agriculture.

    Buena Vista University may not be ideal for students who:

    Might prefer a university with a more big-city vibe.

    Compare school
    21. a group of students in a Bible study

  22. #18

    Morningside University

    Sioux City , IA
    #14 Best Online Colleges in Iowa 2024 #18 Best Online Master's Programs in Iowa 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    71%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at Morningside University

    Cost of Degree: $38,190
    Expenses: $15,480
    Starting Salary: $47,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Morningside University was founded in 1894. It is affiliated with the United Methodist Church.

    What we love about Morningside University:

    Morningside University has Study Abroad opportunities, along with internships and externships.

    Morningside University is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for somewhere with a good range of majors and minors related to agriculture.

    Morningside University may not be ideal for students who:

    Might be looking to enroll in an engineering degree program.

    Morningside University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 88-92
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Organizational Management
    • Required Credits: 50
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  23. #19

    Dordt University

    Sioux Center , IA
    #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Construction Management Degree Programs #16 Best Online Colleges in Iowa 2024 #16 Best Online Master's Programs in Iowa 2024 #22 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Administration Degree Programs for 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1140/24

    Career Outlook for degree at Dordt University

    Cost of Degree: $35,960
    Expenses: $15,940
    Starting Salary: $45,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Dordt University is affiliated with the Christian Reformed Church. It was founded in 1955.

    What we love about Dordt University:

    Dordt’s Degree in Three programs let students earn their bachelor’s degree in three years.

    Dordt University is ideal for students who:

    Are interested in enrolling in an agriculture degree.

    Dordt University may not be ideal for students who:

    Might be looking for a university with a more big-city vibe, as Sioux Center is a town of less than 10,000.

    Dordt University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Management
    • Construction Management
    • Finance
    • General
    • Human Resource Management
    • Information Systems
    • International Business
    • Marketing
    • Office Management
    • Public Administration
    • Required Credits: 159.5
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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Iowa’s Best Christian Colleges in Your Area of Interest

Anthropology Biology Business Chemistry Commun­ications Computer Science Criminal Justice Earth Sciences Economics Education Engineering History Law Literature Mathematics Medical Nursing Philosophy Physics Political Science Psychology Religious Studies Social Work Sociology

Student Submitted Questions about Christian Colleges in Iowa

Will I receive the same quality of education in a Christian college that I would receive at a traditional secular four-year school?

Each of the Christian colleges in this ranking are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). HLC is an institutional accreditor, which ensures that students receive a quality higher education.

Can I apply for financial aid when I attend a Christian college in Iowa?

Yes, as long as the college is accredited through the HLC, regardless of its religious affiliation, students can apply to receive financial aid. For more information on how to apply, visit the Federal Student Aid website.

Can I attend a Christian college in Iowa even if I am not a Christian?

There are many religiously-affiliate colleges that accept students who do not profess any faith. However, it is always a good idea to contact the admissions department at the college to discuss.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here