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Cheapest Journalism Colleges in Iowa

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

Iowa State University delivers the most affordable journalism education in Iowa at just $18,165 net cost, making it nearly $3,000 cheaper than the University of Iowa. While both public universities maintain strong graduation rates above 73%, Iowa's journalism graduates enter a media market supported by agricultural communications, corporate communications at Principal Financial, and regional newspapers serving farming communities. The state's 11 journalism programs span a $12,000 cost range, with private colleges averaging $23,500 compared to under $20,000 at public institutions. Drake University commands the highest price at $30,042 but produces graduates earning $36,560, reflecting its connections to Des Moines business media.
11
Programs
$18,165 – $30,042
Net Price Range
$36,652
Avg. Program Earnings
64.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

11 Journalism Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $18,165 $10,497 75.5% 90.2%
2 $21,057 $38,298 69.9% 89.8%
3 $21,398 $10,964 73.1% 86.0%
4 $21,590 $35,534 49.4%
5 $21,616 $33,450 55.8% 98.4%
6 $22,231 $46,212 65.7% 89.1%
7 $22,750 $35,598 62.8% 73.9%
8 $23,435 $39,070 55.9% 75.3%
9 $23,519 $35,300 63.6% 87.3%
10 $25,383 $35,960 65.3% 87.7%
11 $30,042 $49,944 77.3% 67.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Iowa State University the most affordable journalism program?

Iowa State charges just $18,165 net cost with in-state tuition of $10,497, nearly $3,000 less than the University of Iowa. The program maintains a 75.5% graduation rate while accepting 90% of applicants, making quality journalism education accessible to most students.

How do private journalism programs compare cost-wise in Iowa?

Private colleges average around $23,500 net cost, with Loras College offering the best value at $21,057. Drake University costs the most at $30,042 but graduates earn $38,289, the highest among schools reporting salary data.

Where do Iowa journalism graduates typically find employment?

Graduates work in agricultural communications supporting Iowa's farming industry, corporate communications at major employers like Principal Financial and John Deere, and regional media outlets. The state's insurance sector also provides opportunities in marketing communications and public relations.

Does graduation rate correlate with program cost in Iowa journalism schools?

The pattern varies significantly across institutions. Iowa State achieves a 75.5% graduation rate at the lowest cost, while some private colleges like Briar Cliff have 49.4% rates despite charging $21,590. Drake University justifies its premium with a 77.3% graduation rate.

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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.