Higher Education in Iowa
State Universities
Iowa has three Regent Universities, each with a slightly different focus on higher education. All three universities offer a wide range of reasonably-priced, high-quality programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
The University of Iowa is a major national research university with a solid liberal arts foundation. Internationally recognized for its many achievements in the arts, sciences and the humanities, the University of Iowa also operates the nation's largest university-owned teaching hospital.
Iowa State University is a broad-based university of international stature. The school's curriculum centers around science and technology and also offers strong programs in the humanities and the arts, providing many opportunities for specialization within a broad liberal arts education.
The University of Northern Iowa was originally a school for the special instruction and training of teachers. Today, the school is still very much concerned with preparing people for careers in education while also offering degrees in the arts, sciences, business administration, music, philosophy and industrial technology.
Independent Colleges and Universities
If you are seeking a postsecondary education in a small-class environment, Iowa offers a wide selection of independent colleges and universities.
The primary focus of Iowa's 30 independent schools is undergraduate education. Each institution provides a diverse campus life, innovative programs, and excellent preparation for a career or graduate school. You can remain in Iowa, close to home, but live in an educational community that offers you a strong sense of belonging and shared experiences.
At the same time, Iowa's independent colleges and universities are value-oriented and designed to provide an atmosphere which is conducive to your personal growth. The faculty and staff of these institutions consciously try to help you develop and define your own interests, goals, expectations, and lifestyle by helping you learn to think independently, creatively, and intelligently.
Community Colleges
Iowa has a nationally recognized system of two-year public colleges which can help you prepare for employment in a wide range of careers. Each of Iowa's 15 comprehensive community colleges serves a multi-county area. If you live in Iowa and are older than high school age, you are ensured enrollment at your area college.
Technical and vocational programs prepare students for careers in a wide range of fields, including automotive, agriculture, drafting and design, electronics, business, and many others. The colleges work closely with employers to ensure that the education is current and practical. Many of these programs offer "career-option-transfer" or "co-op plans" which provide classroom instruction along with paid employment experience.
If you are seeking a four-year degree, you can earn an associate degree in arts and sciences. This degree will provide you with two years of credit which may be transferred to other colleges and universities. In addition, area colleges offer remedial assistance and services for disabled and disadvantaged students.
