Cheapest Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies Colleges in Iowa

Iowa State University delivers the lowest-cost Rhetoric and Composition program at just $18,165 annually, while private colleges like Drake University cost $30,042 despite similar career outcomes. The $11,877 price gap between most affordable and most expensive options reflects Iowa's mixed educational market. With major employers like Principal Financial and John Deere requiring skilled corporate communicators, Iowa's writing programs serve regional business needs. Graduation rates vary dramatically from 17.60% at Maharishi International to 77.30% at Drake, making program selection critical for students pursuing technical writing, corporate communications, and content strategy careers.

Programs

$18,165 – $30,042

Net Price Range

$24,381

Avg. Program Earnings

59.0%

Avg. Graduation Rate

12 Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	Iowa State University Ames, Iowa	$18,165	$10,497	75.5%	90.2%
2	Maharishi International University Fairfield, Iowa	$18,225	$16,530	17.6%	94.3%
3	Coe College Cedar Rapids, Iowa	$19,155	$52,576	59.0%
4	Loras College Dubuque, Iowa	$21,057	$38,298	69.9%	89.8%
5	Briar Cliff University Sioux City, Iowa	$21,590	$35,534	49.4%
6	Waldorf University Forest City, Iowa	$21,683	$25,220	29.0%	73.9%
7	Wartburg College Waverly, Iowa	$22,604	$51,040	66.8%	97.5%
8	Saint Ambrose University Davenport, Iowa	$22,750	$35,598	62.8%	73.9%
9	Northwestern College Orange City, Iowa	$23,519	$35,300	63.6%	87.3%
10	Cornell College Mount Vernon, Iowa	$25,079	$50,634	71.7%	79.3%
11	Dordt University Sioux Center, Iowa	$25,383	$35,960	65.3%	87.7%
12	Drake University Des Moines, Iowa	$30,042	$49,944	77.3%	67.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the 60-point graduation rate difference between Iowa programs?

Maharishi International University shows a 17.60% graduation rate compared to Drake's 77.30%, largely reflecting different student populations and institutional support systems. The most affordable options like Iowa State (75.50%) and mid-priced schools like Cornell College (71.70%) maintain strong completion rates.

How do Iowa writing program costs compare to earnings potential?

Graduates earn between $20,140 and $31,495 annually according to available data, with Drake University showing the highest earnings at $31,495 despite its $30,042 annual cost. Loras College graduates earn $20,140 while paying $21,057 net price, creating a challenging return equation.

Is Iowa State University's writing program actually competitive despite low costs?

Iowa State accepts 90.22% of applicants while maintaining a 75.50% graduation rate, indicating accessible admission standards with solid completion outcomes. The $18,165 annual cost represents strong value for a program serving Iowa's agricultural and insurance communication sectors.

Where do Iowa's private colleges fit in the affordability spectrum?

Private options range from $19,155 at Coe College to $30,042 at Drake University, with most clustering between $21,000-$25,000 annually. Schools like Wartburg College charge $22,604 despite listing prices above $51,000, making financial aid calculations essential for accurate cost comparison.

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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.