Most
Popular Colleges in Iowa in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Iowa combines foundational coursework in accounting, economics, finance, marketing, management, business law, and data analytics. Programs often emphasize teamwork, communication, entrepreneurship, and hands-on projects with employers. Popular options include the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, the University of Northern Iowa, and Drake University. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, sales representative, operations supervisor, or financial analyst. Internships and student organizations can help build experience.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Iowa offers opportunities to explore human behavior, mental processes, and research through learning and practical experience. Typical courses include developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, social psychology, statistics, research methods, and abnormal psychology. Graduates may pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, human resources specialist, research assistant, or, with further education, counselor or psychologist. Popular Iowa colleges include the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, the University of Northern Iowa, and Drake University.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Iowa combines theory with problem-solving. Students typically take courses in programming, data structures, algorithms, operating systems, databases, software engineering, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. Many programs include projects, internships, and opportunities to specialize. Graduates pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity analysts, or IT consultants. Popular choices include Iowa State University in Ames, the University of Iowa in Iowa City, and the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Iowa can prepare graduate students to support individuals and families across schools, clinics, and agencies. Coursework typically includes counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and research methods. Depending on degree and licensure path, graduates may work as school counselors, mental health counselors, substance use counselors, career counselors, or case managers. Options include the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, Drake University, and the University of Northern Iowa.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Iowa combines classroom instruction with clinical practice in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Courses include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, pediatrics, mental health, and maternal care. Students develop communication, critical-thinking, and patient-safety skills while preparing for licensure exams. Graduates work as registered nurses in hospitals, long-term care facilities, schools, or public health agencies. Iowa options include the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, and the University of Dubuque.

Best Colleges in Iowa Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 35,245.0, compared with 51,496.6 at schools in the top 10%, indicating a higher median cost among those schools.
• On average, 100.0% of students receive financial aid across the schools, 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 schools in the top 10% receive an average of 9,769.5. The median number of applicants is 959.0 men and 709.5 women.
• Average test scores are 1,126.57 on the SAT and 23.55 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 3,831.0. Average enrollment includes 320.33 men and 341.97 women.
• The average graduation rate is 61.8%, compared with 75.8% at top 10% schools. Median graduation rates are 59.0% for men and 69.0% for women.
• Among the institutions, 10 offer associate's degrees, 30 offer bachelor's degrees, 23 offer master's degrees, and 5 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 30 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, test scores, enrollment, and graduation outcomes. The higher median cost and graduation rate among top 10% schools, as well as the differences in aid availability, are factors worth weighing against your academic goals and budget.

How much does studying at a college in Iowa cost?

The average total cost of studying in Iowa is about $33,788.20.

Across the reported averages, tuition and fees are $35,222.33; room and board add $11,695.39, while books and supplies average $1,081.29. These figures help you see the main expenses, but your actual bill will depend on your school, program, housing choice, and financial aid.

Students considering the University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa State University in Ames, or the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls should compare each campus's net price and aid offers. Scholarships, grants, living at home, or choosing a community college for initial credits can make the path more affordable - and finding the right mix can feel reassuring. Because the listed tuition average is higher than the average total-cost figure, treat the numbers as separate statewide averages rather than a single itemized bill. Check your chosen college's cost estimate before deciding how much to borrow.

How long does it take to finish college in Iowa?

At a typical Iowa college, plan on about four years for a bachelor's degree and about two years for an associate degree, assuming full-time study and a steady course load. Students at the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, or the University of Northern Iowa generally follow that four-year path, though majors, course availability, work, and family commitments can change the timeline. Your individual plan with an adviser can make the finish line feel manageable.

Across Iowa, the average graduation rate is 61.8%; among the top 10% of schools, it is 75.8%. The reported average is 56.17% for men and 67.1% for women, showing completion varies and many students need more time or support. To finish sooner, ask early about:

• Transferring accepted credits, including AP or dual-enrollment work.
• Taking summer classes or heavier course loads, if sustainable and available.
• Accelerated or online courses and degree maps that prevent missed prerequisites.

Salary

A useful benchmark for what you may earn after college in Iowa is a median alumni salary of about $47,289. Graduates from schools ranked in the top 10% have a higher reported median of about $58,662. These figures are benchmarks, not guarantees: your degree, career field, experience, and location can all affect your earnings.

If you're considering the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, or the University of Northern Iowa, compare programs as well as overall reputation. Fields of study can lead to very different career paths, so look at the types of jobs connected to your intended major and the opportunities for internships or other work experience while you study.

• General alumni median: approximately $47,289
• Median for graduates of top 10% schools: approximately $58,662

People also ask

What is the most attended college in Iowa?

The University of Iowa is generally the state's largest college by total enrollment. In fall 2024, it reported about 31,563 students, compared with about 30,177 at Iowa State University. Both offer a large-campus experience, but Iowa City may appeal especially to students who want a lively college town and a major academic medical center.

What is the most popular school in Iowa?

"Most popular" depends on what you mean: applications, enrollment, sports fandom, or name recognition can point to different schools. The University of Iowa and Iowa State University are both major student destinations. If you mean broad public visibility and school spirit, the Hawkeyes have an especially prominent profile across Iowa.

What is the most famous university in Iowa?

The University of Iowa is probably Iowa's best-known university nationally. Its reputation is boosted by the Iowa Writers' Workshop, major health-care and research programs, and the Hawkeyes' high-profile athletics. For an Iowa student, that means access to a campus with a strong academic identity and plenty of statewide community connections.

What is the hardest university to get into in Iowa?

Grinnell College is generally among Iowa's most selective undergraduate institutions, but it is a college, not a university. Its small classes and strong liberal-arts reputation draw a competitive applicant pool. If you mean universities only, selectivity varies by program and year, so compare current admission data for the specific major you hope to study.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Popular Colleges Ranking in Iowa Ranking in 2026-2027

Located in Grinnell, Iowa, Grinnell College is a residential liberal arts college known for an ambitious, student-centered environment. Its 1,668 enrolled students can consider its 88% graduation rate and 15% acceptance rate when weighing fit and selectivity. The listed total study cost is $67,650, while median alumni salary is $41,589. For an Iowa student seeking broad undergraduate study in a small-town setting, Grinnell offers a campus experience; compare its high cost with its strong graduation outcome and personal academic community.

William Penn University, in Oskaloosa, is a private university with Quaker roots, offering Iowa students a smaller-campus option in a community. Enrollment is 1,430, and its 33% graduation rate and 52% acceptance rate provide context for evaluating academic fit. The listed total cost of studying is $29,750, with median alumni salary of $41,413. For students comparing affordability across Iowa, its cost is notably lower than the other schools listed, though graduation outcomes merit consideration alongside programs and support.

Drake University is a private university in Des Moines, placing students in Iowa's capital city and near a broad range of civic, cultural, and professional opportunities. It enrolls 4,204 students, reports a 74% graduation rate, and has a 64% acceptance rate. Its listed total cost is $51,444, and median alumni salary is $47,207. For an Iowa resident seeking an urban campus, Drake combines city access with a substantial undergraduate community; compare its cost with expected aid and your intended program.

Coe College, located in Cedar Rapids, is a private liberal arts college where Iowa students can pursue undergraduate study in a mid-sized city. Its 1,204 enrolled students, 66% graduation rate, and 64% acceptance rate offer measures for comparing campus scale and outcomes. The listed total study cost is $54,316, and median alumni salary is $47,370. Students drawn to a close-knit college setting may find Coe appealing, while evaluating how its price, academic offerings, and financial aid align with personal goals.

Dordt University, in Sioux Center, is a Christian university offering Iowa students a faith-centered campus in the state's northwest. It enrolls 1,952 students, with a 70% graduation rate and 68% acceptance rate. The listed total cost of studying is $36,400, and median alumni salary is $51,816, the highest among these five schools. Students seeking a community where Christian faith is part of university life may consider Dordt, while checking specific degree offerings, costs, and financial aid before making their choice.