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Cheapest History Colleges in Iowa

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

University of Northern Iowa delivers the most affordable History education in the state at $14,609 net cost, while Grinnell College charges $15,608 despite its $64,862 sticker price through generous aid packages. This $1,000 difference between a public university and one of America's most selective liberal arts colleges reflects Iowa's commitment to accessible higher education. History graduates from Iowa schools earn between $18,154 and $37,928, with University of Iowa leading at $37,928 annually. The state's major employers like Principal Financial and John Deere value historical research and analytical skills for corporate communications, policy analysis, and strategic planning roles. Iowa's low cost of living amplifies the value proposition, as graduates can build careers in Des Moines insurance sector or Cedar Rapids manufacturing while managing reasonable student debt loads averaging $17,500 to $22,000.
25
Programs
$14,609 – $30,042
Net Price Range
$29,718
Avg. Program Earnings
60.2%
Avg. Graduation Rate

25 History Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $14,609 $9,728 68.9% 95.0%
2 $15,608 $64,862 87.5% 10.8%
3 $15,975 $33,220 38.3% 74.5%
4 $18,165 $10,497 75.5% 90.2%
5 $18,321 $40,190 47.3% 77.3%
6 $19,155 $52,576 59.0%
7 $20,068 $39,600 54.9% 84.8%
8 $21,057 $38,298 69.9% 89.8%
9 $21,398 $10,964 73.1% 86.0%
10 $21,590 $35,534 49.4%
11 $21,616 $33,450 55.8% 98.4%
12 $21,683 $25,220 29.0% 73.9%
13 $22,115 $28,750 29.2% 57.7%
14 $22,231 $46,212 65.7% 89.1%
15 $22,353 $20,988 69.2% 79.2%
16 $22,604 $51,040 66.8% 97.5%
17 $22,750 $35,598 62.8% 73.9%
18 $23,169 $38,190 52.8% 70.6%
19 $23,172 $19,000 41.5% 54.2%
20 $23,435 $39,070 55.9% 75.3%
21 $23,519 $35,300 63.6% 87.3%
22 $25,079 $50,634 71.7% 79.3%
23 $25,383 $35,960 65.3% 87.7%
24 $25,635 $50,320 75.0% 75.3%
25 $30,042 $49,944 77.3% 67.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do Iowa History graduates typically earn compared to their college costs?

University of Iowa History graduates earn $37,928 annually against a $21,398 net cost, creating a strong return on investment. Simpson College graduates earn $36,848 with a $22,231 net price, while University of Northern Iowa graduates earn $33,993 for just $14,609 in costs. These earnings reflect Iowa's stable job market and the practical value of History skills in business and government sectors.

What makes Grinnell College's History program surprisingly affordable despite its high tuition?

Grinnell College charges $64,862 in tuition but offers financial aid that reduces the average net cost to $15,608, making it Iowa's second most affordable option. The college accepts only 10.76% of applicants but graduates 87.50% of students who enroll. This combination of selectivity and generous aid creates an elite education opportunity at community college prices for qualifying students.

Does attending a public university guarantee lower costs for History majors in Iowa?

Not necessarily, as several private colleges offer competitive net prices through financial aid. University of Northern Iowa costs $14,609, while Graceland University charges $15,975 and Grinnell College $15,608. Iowa State University at $18,165 actually costs more than these private options. The key difference lies in graduation rates, where public schools average 72% compared to private colleges ranging from 29% to 87%.

Where do Iowa History graduates find the best job opportunities relative to their education costs?

Des Moines offers the strongest combination of career opportunities and education value, with major employers like Principal Financial seeking History graduates for research and communications roles. University of Northern Iowa and Iowa State graduates can access these markets with education costs under $19,000. Cedar Falls and Ames provide additional regional opportunities in manufacturing and agriculture sectors that value analytical and writing skills.

How do graduation rates affect the real cost of History programs in Iowa?

Graduation rates vary dramatically from 29% at Waldorf University to 87.50% at Grinnell College, directly impacting degree completion costs. Schools with rates below 50% like Graceland University (38.30%) and Buena Vista University (47.30%) may require additional semesters, increasing total expenses. University of Northern Iowa's 68.90% rate and $14,609 cost combination offers reliable degree completion at the lowest price point.

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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.