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Best Value Social Work Colleges in Iowa

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

University of Northern Iowa delivers remarkable value for social work students at just $14,609 net cost, producing graduates who earn $32,925 annually. This represents one of the strongest cost-to-earnings ratios among Iowa's 14 social work programs, where net costs range from $14,609 to $25,635. Iowa's insurance industry, anchored by Principal Financial Group, creates steady demand for employee assistance counselors and corporate social workers. Mount Mercy University graduates command the highest starting salaries at $36,560, while Luther College achieves a 75% graduation rate despite higher costs.
14
Programs
$14,609 – $25,635
Net Price Range
$31,183
Avg. Program Earnings
60.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

14 Social Work Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $14,609 $32,925 $9,728 68.9% 95.0%
2 $18,321 $28,598 $40,190 47.3% 77.3%
3 $23,435 $36,560 $39,070 55.9% 75.3%
4 $21,398 $32,772 $10,964 73.1% 86.0%
5 $25,635 $32,925 $50,320 75.0% 75.3%
6 $22,604 $26,121 $51,040 66.8% 97.5%
7 $25,383 $28,381 $35,960 65.3% 87.7%
8 $21,590 $35,534 49.4%
9 $20,068 $39,600 54.9% 84.8%
10 $15,975 $33,220 38.3% 74.5%
11 $21,616 $33,450 55.8% 98.4%
12 $21,057 $38,298 69.9% 89.8%
13 $23,519 $35,300 63.6% 87.3%
14 $22,750 $35,598 62.8% 73.9%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Northern Iowa such good value for social work?

At $14,609 net cost with graduates earning $32,925, UNI offers the lowest expenses paired with above-average salaries. The 68.90% graduation rate and 94.95% acceptance rate make it accessible to most applicants while maintaining solid outcomes.

How do private college costs compare to public options in Iowa?

Private colleges average around $22,000 in net costs compared to public schools ranging from $14,609 to $21,398. However, Mount Mercy University justifies its $23,435 cost with the highest graduate earnings at $36,560, offsetting the premium through better salary potential.

Does Iowa's job market support social work graduates financially?

Iowa social work graduates earn between $26,121 and $36,560 annually, reflecting the state's lower cost of living. Major employers like Principal Financial and healthcare systems throughout Iowa provide steady opportunities in corporate wellness and medical social work.

Which Iowa schools have the strongest graduation rates for social work?

Luther College leads with 75% graduation rates, followed by University of Iowa at 73.10%. These rates significantly exceed national averages and indicate strong student support systems and program quality.

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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.