Best Value Computer and Information Sciences Colleges in Iowa

Simpson College graduates earn $73,041 after completing their computer science programs, making it Iowa's highest-earning option despite a net cost of $22,231. The state's 16 computer and information sciences programs show dramatic cost variation, from Emmaus Bible College at $12,904 to Drake University at $30,042. Iowa's tech sector benefits from major employers like Principal Financial Group and John Deere's technology divisions, creating steady demand for programming and systems analysis skills. Public universities Iowa State and University of Iowa offer particularly strong value propositions with net costs around $18,000-$21,000, while private colleges like Grand View University maintain competitive acceptance rates above 98%. The state's low cost of living amplifies earning potential, with even the lowest-paid graduates at $54,835 enjoying substantial purchasing power compared to coastal markets.

Programs

$12,904 – $30,042

Net Price Range

$61,418

Avg. Program Earnings

58.1%

Avg. Graduation Rate

16 Computer and Information Sciences, General Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	Program Earnings	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	Simpson College Indianola, Iowa	$22,231	$73,041	$46,212	65.7%	89.1%
2	Clarke University Dubuque, Iowa	$20,068	$57,318	$39,600	54.9%	84.8%
3	Grand View University Des Moines, Iowa	$21,616	$59,485	$33,450	55.8%	98.4%
4	University of Iowa Iowa City, Iowa	$21,398	$54,835	$10,964	73.1%	86.0%
5	Drake University Des Moines, Iowa	$30,042	$62,409	$49,944	77.3%	67.2%
6	Buena Vista University Storm Lake, Iowa	$18,321		$40,190	47.3%	77.3%
7	Dordt University Sioux Center, Iowa	$25,383		$35,960	65.3%	87.7%
8	University of Dubuque Dubuque, Iowa	$23,250		$40,065	41.1%	85.1%
9	Emmaus Bible College Dubuque, Iowa	$12,904		$20,000	81.7%	100.0%
10	Graceland University-Lamoni Lamoni, Iowa	$15,975		$33,220	38.3%	74.5%
11	Iowa State University Ames, Iowa	$18,165		$10,497	75.5%	90.2%
12	Morningside University Sioux City, Iowa	$23,169		$38,190	52.8%	70.6%
13	Saint Ambrose University Davenport, Iowa	$22,750		$35,598	62.8%	73.9%
14	Upper Iowa University Fayette, Iowa	$23,172		$19,000	41.5%	54.2%
15	Wartburg College Waverly, Iowa	$22,604		$51,040	66.8%	97.5%
16	William Penn University Oskaloosa, Iowa	$22,115		$28,750	29.2%	57.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Simpson College worth $22,231 when cheaper options exist?

Simpson College graduates earn $73,041 annually, roughly $13,000 more than University of Iowa graduates despite similar net costs around $21,000-$22,000. The college maintains a 65.7% graduation rate with an 89% acceptance rate. Simpson's smaller class sizes and industry connections in Des Moines area insurance and finance companies create networking advantages that translate to higher starting salaries.

How do Iowa's public universities compare for computer science value?

Iowa State University offers the better public option with a net cost of $18,165 compared to University of Iowa's $21,398. Iowa State graduates complete programs at a 75.5% rate versus Iowa's 73.1%. Both universities accept around 86-90% of applicants, but Iowa State's lower debt burden of $22,452 versus Iowa's $25,500 makes it the superior financial choice.

Is the $30,042 cost at Drake University justified by outcomes?

Drake University graduates earn $62,409 annually but carry only $19,000 in debt, the lowest among schools reporting debt figures. The 77.3% graduation rate exceeds most competitors, and Drake's 67% acceptance rate indicates selectivity that may improve job prospects. However, the premium over Iowa State's $18,165 net cost may not justify the modest earnings advantage for budget-conscious students.

Where do Iowa computer science graduates find the best job opportunities?

Des Moines anchors Iowa's tech economy with Principal Financial Group, Wells Fargo, and Nationwide Insurance requiring extensive IT support. Cedar Rapids hosts Collins Aerospace and other defense contractors needing software developers. The state's agricultural technology sector, led by companies like John Deere and DuPont Pioneer, creates demand for data analytics and automation specialists throughout central Iowa.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.