Overview of Iowa State University
Iowa State University (ISU), officially known as Iowa State University of Science and Technology, was founded in 1858 and is located in Ames, Iowa, United States. As a public, land-grant institution, ISU has evolved into a comprehensive and research-intensive university. The university’s single main campus serves a vibrant community of over 30,000 students and employs more than 6,100 faculty and staff. With its distinguished record for innovation in science and technology, ISU is recognized as one of the leading higher education providers in the Midwest and globally.
ISU is renowned for its strengths in engineering, agricultural and life sciences, design, and business. Its College of Engineering consistently ranks among the top 25 public engineering programs in the U.S. The university supports an interdisciplinary approach with centers such as the Bioeconomy Institute and the Virtual Reality Applications Center. Research is central to ISU’s mission; it exceeded $293 million in research expenditures in recent years and is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU). ISU maintains robust international partnerships and is home to several nationally recognized research parks and institutes.
Student life at Iowa State is vibrant, with over 800 student organizations encompassing academic, professional, recreational, cultural, and philanthropic interests. The university fosters an inclusive and global-minded campus community, welcoming students from all 50 U.S. states and more than 110 countries. On-campus housing, extensive sports facilities, and visual and performing arts venues contribute to a dynamic student experience. Comprehensive support services, including academic advising, counseling, and multicultural support, are available to help every student thrive.
Iowa State University’s mission is to “create, share, and apply knowledge to make Iowa and the world a better place.” The university is committed to fostering innovation, sustainability, equity, and global citizenship, empowering students and researchers to solve complex societal challenges for the future.
