Best
Colleges in Iowa in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Iowa combines management fundamentals with practical decision-making skills. Typical coursework includes accounting, finance, marketing, economics, business law, operations, human resources, and organizational behavior. Students may build experience through internships and case projects. Popular options include the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, University of Northern Iowa, and Drake University. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, sales manager, or operations coordinator, with opportunities across industries.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Iowa offers coursework in research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, cognition, social behavior, and mental health. Students build skills in assessment, communication, and data analysis through classes and research opportunities. Popular options include the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, University of Northern Iowa, and Drake University. Graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, human resources specialist, behavioral health technician, or research assistant; advanced clinical practice typically requires graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying a computer science program in Iowa combines theory with problem-solving. Students typically take courses in programming, data structures, algorithms, operating systems, databases, software engineering, and cybersecurity. Many programs also offer artificial intelligence and data science electives. Popular choices include Iowa State University, the University of Iowa, and the University of Northern Iowa. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data scientists, or IT project managers, across industries statewide and nationally.

Counseling

A counseling program in Iowa prepares students to support people through emotional, behavioral and life challenges. Coursework typically includes counseling theories, ethics, human development, multicultural practice, assessment, group counseling and supervised field experience. Iowa options include the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, the University of Northern Iowa and Drake University. Graduates may pursue licensure and work as mental health counselors, school counselors or substance-use counselors in schools, clinics and agencies serving communities across the state.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Iowa combines classroom learning with supervised clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Courses typically include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, maternal-child care, and medical-surgical nursing. Graduates may pursue registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, schools, or public health agencies, depending on degree and licensure. Iowa options include the University of Iowa, University of Northern Iowa, and Allen College, all offering nursing programs.

Best Colleges in Iowa Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 30,562, compared with 51,292 at schools in the top 10% - a higher median cost among that group.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 100% of students overall, compared with 77.87% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 77.87%. Schools receive an average of 4,043.8 applicants, while those in the top 10% average 9,769.5 applicants. The median number of applicants is 959 for men and 709.5 for women.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,126.57 and 23.55, respectively.
• The average number of enrolled students is 3,313.81, including averages of 320.33 enrolled men and 341.97 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 62.38%, compared with 82.4% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 59% for men and 69% for women.
• There are 15 institutions offering associate's degrees, 35 offering bachelor's degrees, 28 offering master's degrees, and 7 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 35 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, prospective students should compare costs and financial-aid availability, and consider how admissions figures, enrollment, degree offerings, and graduation rates align with their needs. The higher average graduation rate at top-10% schools and their higher median cost are worth weighing alongside their lower average financial-aid coverage.

How much does studying at a college in Iowa cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Iowa is $31,060.56. For an Iowa-based student, that is a useful starting point for budgeting for a degree, though your actual bill will depend on the college, program, housing choice, and financial aid you receive.

Reported average costs include $32,369.22 for tuition and fees, $11,375.52 for room and board, and $1,128.63 for books and supplies. These figures are separate averages and do not reconcile with the reported total, so check each school's current cost of attendance before deciding.

Students in Iowa can explore the University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa State University in Ames, or the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls. Choose what fits you best.

• Compare tuition, fees, and housing costs by campus and program carefully.
• Ask financial-aid offices about grants, scholarships, and your net price.
• Include books, transport, and everyday expenses in your budget.

How long does it take to finish college in Iowa?

In Iowa, a bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree commonly takes two; part-time enrollment can extend either timeline. At the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, or the University of Northern Iowa, your schedule, major requirements, and transferred credits shape your finish date. The average graduation rate is 62.38%, so finishing on time is achievable but not automatic. The average is higher among the top 10% of schools, at 82.4%; averages are 57.0% for men and 66.73% for women.

To potentially graduate sooner, consider:

• Bring in eligible AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits, and confirm with your Iowa college which requirements they satisfy.
• Use summer or winter courses to complete prerequisites and keep a course load, after checking financial aid and course availability.
• Ask about competency-based options, online courses, and community-college transfer pathways; an advisor can map credits toward your degree.

Salary

After graduating from college in Iowa, you can expect median alumni earnings of about $47,087. Graduates of schools in the top 10% earn a median of about $61,259, showing the higher earning potential that may be possible with a degree from a top-performing school.

In Iowa, you could study at well-known institutions such as the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, or the University of Northern Iowa. Your own earnings will depend on factors such as your field of study, experience, and career path, but these figures offer a useful starting point as you plan for life after graduation.

People also ask

What are the three biggest colleges in Iowa?

By total student enrollment, the three largest are the University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa State University in Ames, and the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls. Fall 2024 enrollment was about 31,600, 31,100, and 9,300 students, respectively. Each offers a large campus community, with distinct programs and student experiences.

How many colleges are there in Iowa?

Iowa has roughly 60 colleges and universities. The exact number depends on whether specialized schools, branch campuses, and institutions with different degree offerings are included. The state also has 15 community colleges, giving students across Iowa a range of options for career training, associate degrees, and pathways to four-year schools.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Colleges Ranking in Iowa Ranking in 2026-2027

University of Iowa is a public research university in Iowa City, with a lively campus and strong programs across many fields. For an Iowa student seeking a degree, it offers the largest enrollment among these five options, at 31,563 students, and a 75% graduation rate. Its 84% acceptance rate may make admission comparatively accessible. Reported total study cost is $31,374, while median alumni salary is $50,153. Consider its broad university setting alongside your academic interests, budget, and preferred campus community.

Iowa State University, in Ames, is a public land-grant university known for science, engineering, agriculture, and an extensive campus. For Iowa residents seeking a degree, its enrollment of 31,105 makes it nearly as large as the University of Iowa. The graduation rate is 75%, and its acceptance rate is 89%, the highest listed. Total study cost is $27,346, the lowest listed, while median alumni salary reaches $55,374. Ames offers a college-town setting; compare particular majors, aid packages, and living expenses before deciding.

Dordt University is a private Christian university in Sioux Center, offering a smaller campus community and a faith-centered approach to education. Its 1,952 enrolled students make it the smallest school in this group. For Iowa students, the reported 70% graduation rate and 68% acceptance rate provide useful comparison points. Total study cost is $36,400, and median alumni salary is $51,816. Consider whether its setting, educational approach, available majors, and cost fit your goals before choosing a degree program in Iowa.

Cornell College is a private liberal arts college in Mount Vernon, where its One Course At A Time calendar lets students focus on one class per block. Its 1,094 students create the second-smallest enrollment among these Iowa choices. The graduation rate is 62%, and 80% of applicants are accepted. Total study cost is $51,970, while median alumni salary is $40,358. Prospective students should weigh the intensive academic format, campus scale, and costs against their preferred learning style and degree plans.

Grinnell College is a private liberal arts college in Grinnell, known for its residential campus and emphasis on undergraduate study. Its 1,668 enrolled students offer a small-college environment for Iowa residents pursuing a degree. The 88% graduation rate is the highest in this group, while its 15% acceptance rate is the lowest, indicating selective admission. Total study cost is $67,650, the highest listed, and median alumni salary is $41,589. Compare financial aid and academic opportunities carefully when considering this option.