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Iowa State University makes Social Sciences education remarkably accessible with a net cost of just $18,165, creating a $5,000 gap between the cheapest and most expensive options among Iowa's six programs. This affordability proves especially valuable for future social scientists entering Iowa's insurance and agricultural sectors, where companies like Principal Financial regularly hire graduates with strong analytical and communication skills. The 75.50% graduation rate at Iowa State demonstrates that low cost doesn't compromise quality, while acceptance rates ranging from 54% to 98% provide multiple pathways into the field.
6
Programs
$18,165 – $23,172
Net Price Range
$39,009
Avg. Program Earnings
56.3%
Avg. Graduation Rate

6 Social Sciences, General Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $18,165 $10,497 75.5% 90.2%
2 $21,616 $33,450 55.8% 98.4%
3 $22,115 $28,750 29.2% 57.7%
4 $22,353 $20,988 69.2% 79.2%
5 $22,604 $51,040 66.8% 97.5%
6 $23,172 $19,000 41.5% 54.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the dramatic graduation rate differences between Iowa schools?

Iowa State University achieves a 75.50% graduation rate compared to William Penn's 29.20%, a 46-point gap that reflects different student support systems and academic resources. Central College maintains a solid 69.20% rate despite being private, while the smaller private institutions show more variable outcomes.

How do Iowa's Social Sciences programs compare in actual affordability?

Net costs span $18,165 to $23,172, but the sticker prices tell a different story with Wartburg College listing $51,040 before aid. Iowa State's public status delivers the lowest net cost at $18,165, while private schools like Grand View reduce their $33,450 sticker price significantly through financial aid.

Does the $39,009 earnings figure reflect Iowa's job market reality?

The reported earnings align with Iowa's lower cost of living, where entry-level positions at insurance companies or agricultural organizations often start in the upper $30,000s. Iowa's major employers like Principal Financial and John Deere value Social Sciences graduates for their research and communication skills.

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.