Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

ASO Staff Writers
By
Updated on May 1, 2024

Accredited Degree Programs in Iowa

Choosing which college to earn an online degree from is no simple task. But for budget-minded students, looking at Iowa’s colleges and universities with online programs may be a good place to start. At the University of Iowa, 45 percent of students are able to graduate debt-free, and many programs offer the same tuition rate for online students whether they are current residents or out-of-state students. This page will help you learn more about the best online education options at colleges in Iowa, and answer important questions on transfer credits, paying for your online degree and getting on the path to college.

This guide explores some of the best colleges and universities in Iowa, along with strategies for funding your education and information about the requirements to qualify for in-state tuition rates.

How Can I Find Which Online Colleges Offer the Degree I’m Looking for in Iowa?

Finding the best online program for your needs can take a lot of work. Prospective students can research programs through each school’s website. For example, Iowa State University maintains a page detailing all of its distance education programs and courses.

How Much More Do College Grads in Iowa Make?

Earning a postsecondary degree in Iowa can lead to more career opportunities and higher salary potential. In a 2015 report, the Georgetown Center on Education and the Workforce projected that 68% of jobs in Iowa will require some postsecondary education and training by 2025.

The table below shows nationwide median annual earnings by education level. Higher levels of education tend to correlate with higher salaries. Whether you stay in Iowa or move to another state, advancing your education can help you secure higher-paying jobs.

Salary Comparison by Degree
Less Than a High School DiplomaHigh School DiplomaAssociate DegreeBachelor’s DegreeMaster’s DegreeDoctoral Degree
$28,756$37,960$44,824$62,296$74,568$94,900

Source:BLS

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Paying for Online College in Iowa: Tuition and Financial Aid

The rising tuition rates in Iowa are due in part to reduced state funding, according to a 2018 report by Iowa College Aid. However, in-state Iowa tuition rates are lower than the national averages for both public and private schools. Students attending online schools and colleges in Iowa often apply for financial aid opportunities to help fund their education.

Public vs. Private Tuition
Type of SchoolIn-State TuitionOut-of-State TuitionNational Average
Public$8,766$26,214$9,037 (In-State); $25,657 (Out-of-State)
Private$27,991N/A$30,731

Cost Considerations for Online Students in Iowa

The tables above do not include the cost of additional fees and expenses, such as room and board. Below are some additional costs that online learners in Iowa should consider.

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    Tuition Agreements for Out-of-State Students in Online Programs

    Some schools maintain tuition agreements that lower the cost of tuition for eligible out-of-state learners.

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    Recurring Technology Costs

    Many online programs charge distance learners a per-term or per-class technology fee.

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    Required Travel

    Some programs require campus visits, which involve costs associated with travel and room and board.

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    Degree Cost

    Some online programs cost more than others. For example, programs leading to a professional degree, such as nursing or engineering, often include additional fees and higher tuition rates.

Qualifying for In-State Tuition in Iowa

Prospective students can save money by applying to schools in their state of residency. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average cost of in-state tuition is less than a third of the average price of out-of-state tuition. To qualify for in-state tuition rates, students must prove that they have lived in Iowa for at least one year for a reason other than school. Students can demonstrate residency through Iowa employment records, income tax returns, or a driver’s license.

Out-of-state online learners who reside in a state that participates in the Midwestern Higher Education Compact may be eligible for discounted tuition rates from Iowa institutions. Additionally, some schools charge all online students the same tuition rate, regardless of residency. Students should consult their prospective school for detailed information about residency requirements for online learners.

Paying for College in Iowa: Scholarships and Financial Aid

Various financial aid sources can help online students in Iowa fund their education. Learners can apply for scholarships and grants, and special loan repayment programs are available at the state, federal, and institutional levels. The following sections list some of the scholarships and grants available to students attending online schools and colleges in Iowa.

Scholarships for Iowa College Students


plusFuture Ready Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarships

Who Can Apply: Applicants must be recent high school graduates attending college full time or adult learners enrolling part time. Students must have applied for all other available aid and must pursue a credential in a high-demand field.

Amount: Covers tuition not paid for by scholarships and federal and state grants

plusRobert D. Blue Scholarship

Who Can Apply: Iowa residents who demonstrate financial need, excellent academic ability, and strong moral character can apply for this scholarship. Applicants must submit an essay, reference letters, and their high school GPA.

Amount: $500 to $1,000

plusCarver Statewide Scholarship Program

Who Can Apply: This scholarship supports sophomore college students who either graduated from an Iowa high school or have lived in the state for five years. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, have a minimum 2.8 GPA, and present evidence that they face barriers to attending college.

Amount: Typically $6,000 to $8,000

plusIowa National Guard Service Scholarship

Who Can Apply: Iowa residents who are members of the National Guard and pursuing a certificate or undergraduate degree at an eligible Iowa college can apply for this scholarship.

Amount: Up to $8,073

Grants for Iowa College Students


plusFuture Ready Iowa Grant

Who Can Apply: To qualify for this grant, Iowa residents must have applied for all other available financial aid, have attended school for at least two years, and hold half of the credits required for a bachelor’s degree. Applicants must be pursuing a degree in a high-demand field.

Amount: $1,000 to $3,500 per year, for up to four full-time semesters

plusIowa Association of Independent Colleges and Universities Tuition Grant

Who Can Apply: Iowa students attending a private college in the state can apply for this grant. This grant can reduce tuition to rates equal to or below those of public institutions.

Amount: Up to $5,600

plusKibbie Grant (Iowa Skilled Workforce Shortage Tuition Grant)

Who Can Apply: Applicants must be Iowa residents enrolled in an eligible career or technical program at an Iowa community college. Students must demonstrate financial need.

Amount: Half the cost of tuition for up to two years

plusAll Iowa Opportunity Foster Care Grant

Who Can Apply: This grant supports children in the process of aging out of the Iowa foster care system. Applicants must attend an eligible Iowa college.

Amount: Varies

The Importance of Accreditation for Online Colleges and Universities in Iowa

Choosing an accredited school is crucial to ensuring that your degree holds value. Accreditation indicates that a school meets minimum standards related to faculty, curricula, and academic support. The sections below describe several types of institutional and programmatic accreditation for online schools and colleges in Iowa.

Regional and National Accreditation

Schools can hold regional or national accreditation. Regional accreditation is more common and respected than national accreditation. Learners who attend schools without regional accreditation may not be eligible to receive federal financial aid and typically cannot transfer credits to regionally accredited institutions. The Higher Learning Commission awards regional accreditation to universities and colleges in Iowa.

Subject-Specific Accreditation

In addition to institutional accreditation, students can look for programs with subject-specific accreditation. Subject-specific accreditation demonstrates that the program meets the fundamental standards of the discipline or profession. Field-specific accrediting agencies include the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

How to Know if Your School or Program is Accredited

You can determine a school’s accreditation status by searching the Council for Higher Education Accreditation directories. Most schools also include accreditation information on their website. Schools that do not provide this information online often do not hold proper accreditation.

Online College and Adult Education in Iowa

Many students with commitments related to family and work do not enroll in college immediately after graduating high school. Online learning can help returning students complete their studies. This section includes information about online adult education programs in Iowa.

By the Numbers: Adult Education in Iowa

In 2016, 1,334,613 Americans participated in adult education.

A higher percentage of adult learners (aged 30 or older) participate in distance education than younger students.

Adult learners with access to online learning can more readily complete a degree program.

Adult Education Programs for Iowa Students

Best Online Colleges in Iowa 2020

Distance learners can choose from many affordable, accredited online schools and colleges in Iowa. In-state tuition rates at both public and private colleges in Iowa are less expensive than the national average, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

#1 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

Iowa State University

  • Location-markerAmes, IA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$8,678
  • Out-of-state$25,162
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,572
  • Out-of-state$26,776
  • Retention Rate86%
  • Acceptance Rate90%
  • Students Enrolled30,095
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment52%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

Mount Mercy University

  • Location-markerCedar Rapids, IA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$35,540
  • Out-of-state$35,540
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,106
  • Out-of-state$11,106
  • Retention Rate74%
  • Acceptance Rate75%
  • Students Enrolled1,538
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment31%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

University of Iowa

  • Location-markerIowa City, IA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$8,356
  • Out-of-state$30,319
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,432
  • Out-of-state$29,379
  • Retention Rate88%
  • Acceptance Rate86%
  • Students Enrolled29,909
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment55%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

Graceland University-Lamoni

  • Location-markerLamoni, IA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$31,250
  • Out-of-state$31,250
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,970
  • Out-of-state$10,970
  • Retention Rate61%
  • Acceptance Rate74%
  • Students Enrolled1,260
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment32%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

University of Northern Iowa

  • Location-markerCedar Falls, IA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$8,111
  • Out-of-state$19,265
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,691
  • Out-of-state$20,774
  • Retention Rate83%
  • Acceptance Rate95%
  • Students Enrolled8,848
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment54%
  • AccreditationYes
#6 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

Saint Ambrose University

  • Location-markerDavenport, IA
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$33,290
  • Out-of-state$33,290
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$18,360
  • Out-of-state$18,360
  • Retention Rate79%
  • Acceptance Rate74%
  • Students Enrolled2,749
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment30%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

Northwestern College

  • Location-markerOrange City, IA
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$33,350
  • Out-of-state$33,350
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,120
  • Out-of-state$6,120
  • Retention Rate78%
  • Acceptance Rate88%
  • Students Enrolled1,629
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment43%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

Buena Vista University

  • Location-markerStorm Lake, IA
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$37,518
  • Out-of-state$37,518
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,936
  • Out-of-state$9,936
  • Retention Rate76%
  • Acceptance Rate78%
  • Students Enrolled1,242
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment59%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

Upper Iowa University

  • Location-markerFayette, IA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$32,589
  • Out-of-state$32,589
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$19,685
  • Out-of-state$19,685
  • Retention Rate55%
  • Acceptance Rate65%
  • Students Enrolled3,031
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment76%
  • AccreditationYes
#10 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

Briar Cliff University

  • Location-markerSioux City, IA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$32,526
  • Out-of-state$32,526
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,450
  • Out-of-state$9,450
  • Retention Rate63%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled1,000
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment39%
  • AccreditationYes
#11 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

Morningside College

  • Location-markerSioux City, IA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$33,760
  • Out-of-state$33,760
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,516
  • Out-of-state$6,516
  • Retention Rate66%
  • Acceptance Rate74%
  • Students Enrolled2,319
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment49%
  • AccreditationYes
#12 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

Iowa Wesleyan University

  • Location-markerMount Pleasant, IA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$32,550
  • Out-of-state$32,550
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,300
  • Out-of-state$6,300
  • Retention Rate51%
  • Acceptance Rate82%
  • Students Enrolled825
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment34%
  • AccreditationYes
#13 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

Maharishi University of Management

  • Location-markerFairfield, IA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$16,000
  • Out-of-state$16,000
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$32,000
  • Out-of-state$32,000
  • Retention Rate79%
  • Acceptance Rate95%
  • Students Enrolled2,403
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment75%
  • AccreditationYes
#14 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

William Penn University

  • Location-markerOskaloosa, IA
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$27,200
  • Out-of-state$27,200
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,500
  • Out-of-state$10,500
  • Retention Rate62%
  • Acceptance Rate58%
  • Students Enrolled1,436
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment33%
  • AccreditationYes
#15 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

Allen College

  • Location-markerWaterloo, IA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$18,956
  • Out-of-state$18,956
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$18,120
  • Out-of-state$18,400
  • Retention Rate91%
  • Acceptance Rate100%
  • Students Enrolled480
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment82%
  • AccreditationYes
#16 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

Indian Hills Community College

  • Location-markerOttumwa, IA
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,560
  • Out-of-state$6,000
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate57%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled3,385
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment36%
  • AccreditationYes
#17 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

Des Moines Area Community College

  • Location-markerAnkeny, IA
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,340
  • Out-of-state$10,680
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate58%
  • Acceptance Rate67%
  • Students Enrolled20,536
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment50%
  • AccreditationYes
#18 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

Iowa Western Community College

  • Location-markerCouncil Bluffs, IA
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,330
  • Out-of-state$6,420
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate61%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled5,684
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment63%
  • AccreditationYes
#19 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

Iowa Lakes Community College

  • Location-markerEstherville, IA
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,112
  • Out-of-state$6,464
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate54%
  • Acceptance Rate92%
  • Students Enrolled1,803
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment44%
  • AccreditationYes
#20 Online Schools and Colleges in Iowa

Southeastern Community College

  • Location-markerWest Burlington, IA
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,880
  • Out-of-state$6,030
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate72%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled2,321
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment55%
  • AccreditationYes

Online College Resources for Iowa Students

Many resources can help online college students succeed. Below are some tools for learners attending online schools and colleges in Iowa. These resources include information about financial aid opportunities, academic support, and online courses and programs in the state.

This website offers job training and education information. Site visitors can learn about high-demand jobs in the state, Iowa’s apprenticeship program, and scholarship and grant programs.
The ICCOC provides information about how to become an online student at a participating community college. The consortium provides lists of online classes available at ICCOC schools.
This network provides information about education and career training in Iowa. Students can locate financial aid opportunities and college and career planning resources.
This coalition of 21 colleges and universities in Iowa helps students understand their educational options and find resources.
This state government offers some of the best financial aid opportunities for college students in Iowa, including scholarships, grants, and loan repayment programs. The website provides information about applying for aid.