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Best Value Teacher Education and Professional Development Colleges in Iowa

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

Drake University stands apart from Iowa's teacher education market with earnings of $44,835 and a net cost of $30,042, while public alternatives like University of Northern Iowa deliver strong outcomes at just $14,609. This $15,433 cost difference reflects the choice between premium private education and affordable public training in a state where teachers serve rural communities and growing urban districts. Iowa's education sector benefits from the state's stable economy anchored by Principal Financial and John Deere, creating steady demand for specialized subject area instructors. The 20 programs show remarkable variation in value propositions, from Iowa State's 75.50% graduation rate at $18,165 to William Penn's concerning 29.20% completion rate. Public institutions dominate the affordability rankings, with both University of Northern Iowa and Iowa State offering net costs under $19,000 while maintaining graduation rates above 68%. Private colleges like Wartburg and Simpson provide smaller class environments but require careful cost-benefit analysis given their higher price points.
23
Programs
$14,609 – $30,042
Net Price Range
$40,608
Avg. Program Earnings
59.0%
Avg. Graduation Rate

23 Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $14,609 $41,193 $9,728 68.9% 95.0%
2 $18,165 $41,870 $10,497 75.5% 90.2%
3 $18,321 $39,369 $40,190 47.3% 77.3%
4 $21,616 $41,007 $33,450 55.8% 98.4%
5 $22,604 $41,193 $51,040 66.8% 97.5%
6 $23,172 $40,768 $19,000 41.5% 54.2%
7 $23,169 $40,179 $38,190 52.8% 70.6%
8 $23,250 $40,132 $40,065 41.1% 85.1%
9 $22,231 $38,289 $46,212 65.7% 89.1%
10 $22,750 $37,856 $35,598 62.8% 73.9%
11 $30,042 $44,835 $49,944 77.3% 67.2%
12 $21,057 $38,298 69.9% 89.8%
13 $22,115 $28,750 29.2% 57.7%
14 $23,519 $35,300 63.6% 87.3%
15 $21,590 $35,534 49.4%
16 $23,435 $39,070 55.9% 75.3%
17 $20,068 $39,600 54.9% 84.8%
18 $21,398 $10,964 73.1% 86.0%
19 $22,353 $20,988 69.2% 79.2%
20 $15,975 $33,220 38.3% 74.5%
21 $17,819 $19,530 61.1% 52.5%
22 $25,383 $35,960 65.3% 87.7%
23 $25,079 $50,634 71.7% 79.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $15,433 cost difference between the most and least expensive programs?

Drake University's $30,042 net cost reflects its private status and premium positioning, while University of Northern Iowa's $14,609 represents public education efficiency. Private institutions like Wartburg College charge $51,040 in sticker price but offer substantial aid, bringing net costs to $22,604. Public schools benefit from state funding, with Iowa State's in-state tuition of just $10,497 making it accessible to residents.

How do graduation rates correlate with program costs in Iowa's teacher education schools?

Drake University justifies its higher cost with a 77.30% graduation rate, while budget option University of Northern Iowa achieves 68.90% at half the price. Iowa State delivers the strongest value combination with 75.50% completion at $18,165 net cost. William Penn University's 29.20% graduation rate raises concerns despite its moderate $22,115 cost.

Is the earnings gap between programs significant enough to influence school choice?

Teacher salaries show a $6,979 spread from Saint Ambrose's $37,856 to Drake's $44,835, with most programs clustering between $39,000-$42,000. University of Northern Iowa graduates earn $41,193, nearly matching more expensive alternatives like Wartburg College. Iowa State graduates earn $41,870, demonstrating that public education can deliver comparable career outcomes at lower investment.

Does student debt burden vary significantly among Iowa's teacher preparation programs?

Iowa State graduates carry the lowest debt at $17,750, while Buena Vista University students face $28,900 in obligations. University of Northern Iowa strikes a balance with $22,500 in typical debt alongside strong earning potential. Private institutions generally create higher debt loads, though specific amounts vary based on individual financial aid packages.

Where do Iowa teacher education graduates find the best employment opportunities?

Iowa's stable economy, anchored by Fortune 500 companies like Principal Financial, creates consistent demand for educators in both urban centers and rural districts. Des Moines and Cedar Rapids offer higher salary potential, while smaller communities provide lower living costs that stretch teacher salaries further. The state's 99% literacy rate and strong educational tradition support career advancement opportunities across all regions.

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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.