Best Colleges in Iowa 2024

Badge for BEST IN IOWA COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES
By Dr. James Barham
Updated:

Here are the best colleges and universities in Iowa. Our list will help you find the right kind of school for you.

10 Best Colleges in Iowa

Sort by:
  1. University of Iowa
  2. Iowa State University
  3. Grinnell College
  4. Drake University
  5. University of Northern Iowa
  6. Cornell College
  7. Luther College
  8. Loras College
  9. Upper Iowa University
  10. Coe College
  1. University of Iowa
  2. Iowa State University
  3. Grinnell College
  4. Drake University
  5. Coe College
  6. Maharishi International University
  7. University of Northern Iowa
  8. Cornell College
  9. Upper Iowa University
  10. Luther College
  1. Grand View University 98%
  2. Wartburg College 97%
  3. University of Northern Iowa 95%
  4. Maharishi International University 93%
  5. Loras College 90%
  6. Iowa State University 90%
  7. Simpson College 89%
  8. Dordt University 88%
  9. Northwestern College 87%
  10. University of Iowa 86%
  1. Waldorf University 24 to 1
  2. Iowa State University 18 to 1
  3. William Penn University 18 to 1
  4. University of Northern Iowa 17 to 1
  5. University of Iowa 16 to 1
  6. Northwestern College 15 to 1
  7. Dordt University 14 to 1
  8. Mount Mercy University 13 to 1
  9. Cornell College 13 to 1
  10. Wartburg College 13 to 1
  1. Grinnell College $61,480
  2. Coe College $50,664
  3. Wartburg College $49,190
  4. Cornell College $49,158
  5. Luther College $48,160
  6. Drake University $47,742
  7. Simpson College $45,108
  8. Buena Vista University $38,644
  9. University of Dubuque $38,526
  10. Clarke University $38,060
  1. Maharishi International University $29,000
  2. St. Ambrose University $19,040
  3. Upper Iowa University $18,870
  4. Cornell College $14,850
  5. Wartburg College $13,800
  6. Loras College $13,410
  7. Clarke University $12,868
  8. Drake University $11,878
  9. Graceland University $11,688
  10. Mount Mercy University $11,106
  1. Morningside University
  2. Northwestern College
  3. Dordt University
  4. William Penn University
  5. Maharishi International University
  6. Mount Mercy University
  7. Waldorf University
  8. Buena Vista University
  9. Clarke University
  10. Simpson College
  1. Dordt University
  2. Waldorf University
  3. Morningside University
  4. Buena Vista University
  5. Northwestern College
  6. Briar Cliff University
  7. Mount Mercy University
  8. Grand View University
  9. William Penn University
  10. University of Dubuque
  1. Grinnell College 11%
  2. Upper Iowa University 54%
  3. William Penn University 58%
  4. Drake University 67%
  5. Morningside University 71%
  6. Waldorf University 74%
  7. St. Ambrose University 74%
  8. Graceland University 74%
  9. Mount Mercy University 75%
  10. Luther College 75%
  1. University of Dubuque 9 to 1
  2. Grinnell College 9 to 1
  3. Clarke University 9 to 1
  4. Coe College 10 to 1
  5. Drake University 10 to 1
  6. Simpson College 10 to 1
  7. Luther College 11 to 1
  8. Loras College 12 to 1
  9. Briar Cliff University 12 to 1
  10. Grand View University 12 to 1
  1. University of Northern Iowa $8,111
  2. Iowa State University $8,678
  3. University of Iowa $8,711
  4. Maharishi International University $16,530
  5. Waldorf University $24,526
  6. William Penn University $27,800
  7. Graceland University $31,970
  8. Grand View University $32,068
  9. Upper Iowa University $33,639
  10. Northwestern College $34,250
  1. Waldorf University $5,040
  2. Northwestern College $6,120
  3. Iowa Wesleyan University $6,420
  4. Simpson College $6,526
  5. University of Dubuque $7,440
  6. Briar Cliff University $8,474
  7. Grand View University $8,730
  8. Dordt University $9,360
  9. University of Northern Iowa $9,691
  10. Buena Vista University $9,936

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.

Iowa’s largest public university, Iowa State University, serves over 30,000 students and offers extra flexibility for both undergraduate and graduate students through a selection of online degree programs in more than 50 academic fields including business administration, psychology, computer science, and more.

The University of Iowa-home of the Hawkeyes-is also home to some of the nation’s top programs in literature, philosophy, and law. The University of Iowa has also been at the forefront of higher education, starting the nation’s first co-educational medical school, as well as being the first public school to grant a law degree to a woman, Mary B. Hickey Wilkinson, in 1873.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.

For prospective students hoping to obtain their degrees at a smaller school, Iowa offers over 40 options to choose from. For a more affordable option, students can pay $4,000 per year for tuition at Indian Hills Community College. Like most community colleges in Georgia, Indian Hills also offers an array of online programs.

At the other end of the spectrum, students will pay up to $52,000 for an academic year at Grinnell College. Furthermore, nearly half of the schools in Iowa are religiously affiliated.

Iowa is often recognized for its agriculture as it produces the most pork and corn in the nation. Equally noteworthy is Iowa’s wealth of one-of-a-kind roadside attractions. From the largest wooden nickel, to the crookedest street, to the Grotto of Redemption, The Hawkeye State is full of wonders. Students in search of curiosities and oddities while earning a degree can attend one of Iowa’s public or private colleges.

Whether you’re looking to earn your associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, Iowa offers a wealth of on-campus and online learning options. Discover more about Iowa’s top brick-and-mortar and online programs as well as top career paths in the state of Iowa.


What are Iowa’s Colleges & Universities?

Iowa’s Best Overall

Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges

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We’ve identified 27 colleges and universities in Iowa that meet our criteria. This list of the top 30 colleges in Iowa below focuses on schools that offer bachelor’s degrees. The ranking features fully accredited public and private colleges and universities in Iowa.

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Best Colleges in Iowa 2023

  1. #1

    University of Iowa

    Iowa City , IA
    #2 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers 2025 #19 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #19 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #1 Best Research Universities in Iowa 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    33K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1235/25

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Iowa

    Cost of Degree: $10,964
    Expenses: $17,632
    Starting Salary: $62,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Iowa known for?

    University of Iowa’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Iowa’s Online Degrees

    BA in Applied Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Creative Writing
    • Human Relations
    • Justice Studies
    • Political Science
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Enterprise Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120-136
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Liberal Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Expression in Writing and Arts
    • Global Studies
    • Family
    • Community
    • and Social Support
    • Health and Human Studies
    • Justice and Ethics
    • Organizational Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 32
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Radiation Sciences
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Social Work
    • Required Credits: 121-132
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  2. #2

    Iowa State University

    Ames , IA
    #2 Best Research Universities in Iowa 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Iowa 2025 #2 Best Grad Schools in Iowa 2025 #2 Best Public Colleges in Iowa 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    33K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1220/24

    Career Outlook for degree at Iowa State University

    Cost of Degree: $10,497
    Expenses: $13,707
    Starting Salary: $56,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Iowa State University known for?

    Iowa State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Iowa State University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Early childcare education and programming
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Liberal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  3. #3

    Grinnell College

    Grinnell , IA
    #1 Best Small Colleges in Iowa 2025 #1 Best Private Colleges in Iowa 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Iowa 2025 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $61K

    Acceptance

    11%

    Graduation

    88%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1455/32

    Career Outlook for degree at Grinnell College

    Cost of Degree: $64,862
    Expenses: $18,628
    Starting Salary: $61,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Grinnell College known for?

    Grinnell College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  4. #4

    Drake University

    Des Moines , IA
    #2 Best Small Colleges in Iowa 2025 #2 Best Private Colleges in Iowa 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in Iowa 2025 #3 Best Grad Schools in Iowa 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $48K

    Acceptance

    67%

    Graduation

    76%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1225/27

    Career Outlook for degree at Drake University

    Cost of Degree: $49,944
    Expenses: $17,136
    Starting Salary: $68,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Drake University known for?

    Drake University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Drake University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Journalism and Mass Communication
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  5. #5

    University of Northern Iowa

    Cedar Falls , IA
    #3 Best Public Colleges in Iowa 2024 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Iowa 2025 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Iowa 2025 #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Iowa 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    64%

    Student body

    11K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/23

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Northern Iowa

    Cost of Degree: $9,728
    Expenses: $12,998
    Starting Salary: $49,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Northern Iowa known for?

    University of Northern Iowa’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Northern Iowa’s Online Degrees

    BAS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 48-53
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BA in Liberal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  7. #6

    Cornell College

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

    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
    What is Cornell College known for?

    Cornell College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    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
    Compare school
  8. #7

    Luther College

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

    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
    What is Luther College known for?

    Luther College ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  9. #8

    Loras College

    Dubuque , IA
    #4 Best Christian Colleges in Iowa 2024 #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

    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
    What is Loras College known for?

    Loras College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  10. #9

    Upper Iowa University

    Fayette , IA
    #10 15 Best Self-Paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #6 Best Private Colleges in Iowa 2024 #9 Best Small Colleges in Iowa 2025 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Iowa 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    54%

    Graduation

    42%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    970/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Upper Iowa University

    Cost of Degree: $19,000
    Expenses: $15,022
    Starting Salary: $45,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Upper Iowa University known for?

    Upper Iowa University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Upper Iowa University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Human Services
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communication Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Communication Studies
    • Mass Media
    • and Sports Communication
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Homeland Security
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Emergency and Disaster Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Finance
    • General Business
    • Global
    • Health Services Administration
    • Human Resource Management
    • Marketing
    • Sports Administration
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Systems
    Degree Concentrations
    • Information Systems and Security and Integration (ISSI)
    • and Information Systems and Technology Management (ISTM)
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Financial Management
    • Accounting
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • General
    • Emergency Management
    • Fire Science or Law Enforcement
    • Policy and Politics
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BS in Information Technology
    Degree Concentrations
    • Cyber Security and Computer Forensics (SEC)
    • and Network Management (NET)
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Social Science
    Degree Concentrations
    • General Social Science
    • History
    • Political Science
    • Psychology
    • Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  11. #10

    Coe College

    Cedar Rapids , IA
    #1 Best Christian Colleges in Iowa 2024 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Iowa 2025 #3 Best Small Colleges in Iowa 2025 #7 Best Private 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
    What is Coe College known for?

    Coe College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  13. #11

    Graceland University

    Lamoni , IA
    #5 Best Christian Colleges in Iowa 2024 #8 Best Small Colleges in Iowa 2025 #8 Best Private Colleges in Iowa 2024 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Iowa 2025

    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
    What is Graceland University known for?

    Graceland University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    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
  14. #12

    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
    What is Grand View University known for?

    Grand View University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    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
  15. #13

    Iowa Wesleyan University

    Mount Pleasant , IA
    #10 Best Private Colleges in Iowa 2024 #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Iowa #6 Best Online Master's Programs in Iowa 2024 #7 Best Online Bachelor’s in Agribusiness and Agriculture Degree Programs

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    81%

    Graduation

    30%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    920/19

    What is Iowa Wesleyan University known for?

    Iowa Wesleyan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Iowa Wesleyan University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Criminal Justice
    Degree Concentrations
    • General
    • Cybersecurity
    • Homeland Security
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accounting
    • Agribusiness
    • Applied Science
    • Criminal Justice
    • Health Care Management
    • Human Resource Management
    • Human Services
    • Logistics and Supply Chain Management
    • Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  16. #14

    Wartburg College

    Waverly , IA
    #8 Best Christian Colleges in Iowa 2024 #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
    What is Wartburg College known for?

    Wartburg College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  17. #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
    What is Briar Cliff University known for?

    Briar Cliff University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    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

    University of Dubuque

    Dubuque , IA
    #10 Best Christian Colleges in Iowa 2024 #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
    What is University of Dubuque known for?

    University of Dubuque’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  20. #17

    St. Ambrose University

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

    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
    What is St. Ambrose University known for?

    St. Ambrose University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    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
    Compare school
  21. #18

    Simpson College

    Indianola , IA
    #7 Best Christian Colleges in Iowa 2024 #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
    What is Simpson College known for?

    Simpson College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    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
    Compare school
  22. #19

    Clarke University

    Dubuque , IA
    #8 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #4 Best Research Universities in Iowa 2025 #6 Best Christian Colleges in Iowa 2024 #5 Best Online Colleges 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
    What is Clarke University known for?

    Clarke University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Clarke University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 31
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  23. #20

    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
    What is Buena Vista University known for?

    Buena Vista University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  25. #21

    Waldorf University

    Forest City , IA
    #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Iowa #17 Most Affordable Online Master's Degree Programs Ranked for Students #19 Best Online Colleges in Iowa 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $25K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    26%

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for degree at Waldorf University

    Cost of Degree: $25,220
    Expenses: $14,746
    Starting Salary: $42,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Waldorf University known for?

    Waldorf University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Waldorf University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Criminal Justice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Forensic Mental Health
    • Forensic Psychology
    • Homeland Security
    • Public Relations
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communications
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Communications
    • Finance
    • Health Care Management
    • Human Resource Management
    • Industrial Organizational Psychology
    • Management
    • Project Management
    • Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Emergency Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Occupational Safety
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Fire Science Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Organizational Leadership
    Degree Concentrations
    • Global Leadership
    • Diversity and Inclusion
    • Health Care Management
    • Leadership Communication
    • Occupational Safety and Health
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Homeland Security
    Degree Concentrations
    • Criminal Justice
    • Emergency Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Public Relations
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    Degree Concentrations
    • Communications
    • Criminal Justice
    • Fire Science
    • Health Care Management
    • Occupational Safety and Health
    • Sport Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  26. #22

    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
    What is Mount Mercy University known for?

    Mount Mercy University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    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
  27. #23

    Maharishi International University

    Fairfield , IA
    #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Iowa 2025 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Iowa 2025 #4 Best Small Colleges in Iowa 2025 #4 Best Grad Schools in Iowa 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $17K

    Acceptance

    93%

    Graduation

    50%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at Maharishi International University

    Cost of Degree: $16,530
    Expenses: $12,200
    Starting Salary: $30,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Maharishi International University known for?

    Maharishi International University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Maharishi International University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Ayurveda Wellness & Integrative Health
    • Required Credits: 50
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Applied Arts & Sciences
    Degree Concentrations
    • Consciousness and Human Potential
    • Sustainable and Regenerative Living
    • Cinematic Arts and New Media
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Cinematic Arts & New Media
    • Required Credits: 40
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  28. #24

    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
    What is William Penn University known for?

    William Penn University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    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
  29. #25

    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
    What is Dordt University known for?

    Dordt University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    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
    Compare school
  31. #26

    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
    What is Northwestern College known for?

    Northwestern College ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    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
  32. #27

    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
    What is Morningside University known for?

    Morningside University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    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
    Compare school
Back to Top

Iowa’s Best Colleges in Your Area of Interest

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2021 Ranking Archive

Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.

  1. Grinnell College
  2. Clarke University
  3. University of Iowa
  4. Drake University
  5. Iowa State University
  6. Cornell College
  7. Graceland University
  8. Wartburg College
  9. Coe College
  10. Maharishi International University
  11. Loras College
  12. Morningside University
  13. Luther College
  14. University of Northern Iowa
  15. Dordt University
  16. Northwestern College
  17. Mount Mercy University
  18. University of Dubuque
  19. Simpson College
  20. Buena Vista University
  21. Grand View University
  22. St. Ambrose University
  23. Upper Iowa University
  24. Briar Cliff University
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