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Christian Colleges in Iowa

25 schools in Iowa. See our methodology.

Divine Word College in Epworth achieves a perfect 100% graduation rate despite enrolling just 61 students, making it the smallest yet most successful Christian institution among Iowa's 25 faith-based colleges. This completion rate stands out in a state where Christian college graduation rates span from 29.2% to 100%. Net prices range from $12,904 at Emmaus Bible College to $25,635 at Luther College, reflecting Iowa's commitment to affordable higher education. The earnings potential varies significantly, with Mercy College of Health Sciences graduates earning $62,234 annually compared to $40,650 for Faith Baptist graduates. Iowa's Christian colleges serve varied career paths in the state's key industries. Saint Ambrose University and Luther College prepare students for Iowa's insurance sector, including companies like Principal Financial. Agricultural programs connect to John Deere and Iowa's farming economy. Healthcare-focused institutions like Mercy College and St Luke's College train professionals for Iowa's growing medical sector. The state's low cost of living makes these institutions particularly attractive, with most schools maintaining acceptance rates above 70%. Central College combines strong academics with reasonable costs at $22,353 net price, while Dordt University serves 1,547 students with specialized programs. These colleges reflect Iowa's practical approach to Christian education, balancing spiritual formation with career preparation for the state's major employers.
25
Schools
$21,151
Avg. Net Price
$54,025
Avg. Earnings
59.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Christian Colleges in Iowa

College listings
# School Affiliation Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate
1 Roman Catholic 61 100.0%
2 Reformed Church in America 1,062 $22,353 69.2%
3 Baptist 371 $17,819 61.1%
4 Plymouth Brethren 183 $12,904 81.7%
5 Roman Catholic 2,101 $22,750 62.8%
6 Roman Catholic 626 $21,590 49.4%
7 Evangelical Lutheran 1,454 $25,635 75.0%
8 Roman Catholic 905 $23,417 48.6%
9 Roman Catholic 1,087 $21,057 69.9%
10 Presbyterian Church (USA) 1,246 $19,155 59.0%
11 Roman Catholic 1,135 $23,435 55.9%
12 Christian Reformed 1,547 $25,383 65.3%
13 United Methodist 1,166 $23,169 52.8%
14 Other Protestant 192 $13,021 33.3%
15 United Methodist 1,074 $25,079 71.7%
16 Reformed Church in America 1,125 $23,519 63.6%
17 United Methodist 1,130 $22,231 65.7%
18 Roman Catholic 782 $20,068 54.9%
19 Friends 1,391 $22,115 29.2%
20 Evangelical Lutheran 1,472 $21,616 55.8%
21 Evangelical Lutheran 1,446 $22,604 66.8%
22 Presbyterian Church (USA) 1,378 $18,321 47.3%
23 Other (not classified) 901 $15,975 38.3%
24 Presbyterian Church (USA) 1,473 $23,250 41.1%
25 Evangelical Lutheran

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Divine Word College unique among Iowa's Christian institutions?

Divine Word College achieves a perfect 100% graduation rate with just 61 enrolled students, making it the most successful completion rate among Iowa's 25 Christian colleges. This small seminary focuses on preparing Catholic priests and maintains highly selective admission standards while providing intensive pastoral training.

How do net prices compare across Iowa's Christian colleges?

Net prices range from $12,904 at Emmaus Bible College to $25,635 at Luther College, a $12,731 difference. Most schools fall between $20,000-$25,000 annually. Emmaus Bible College and St Luke's College offer the most affordable options at under $14,000 net price.

Where do graduates typically find employment in Iowa?

Christian college graduates often join Iowa's major employers including Principal Financial Group, John Deere, and healthcare systems. Mercy College graduates earn $62,234 annually, reflecting strong demand for healthcare professionals. Many graduates remain in Iowa due to competitive salaries and low living costs.

Is admission competitive at Iowa's Christian colleges?

Most Iowa Christian colleges maintain accessible admission standards, with acceptance rates ranging from 52.5% to 100%. Faith Baptist Bible College has the most selective admission at 52.5%, while Emmaus Bible College accepts all qualified applicants. Average acceptance rates exceed 75% across most institutions.

What graduation rates can students expect?

Graduation rates vary significantly from 29.2% to 100% across Iowa's Christian colleges. Divine Word College leads at 100%, followed by Emmaus Bible College at 81.7%. Luther College graduates 75% of students, while larger institutions like Central College maintain 69.2% completion rates.

How do enrollment sizes affect the college experience?

Enrollment ranges from 61 students at Divine Word College to 2,101 at Saint Ambrose University. Smaller schools like Emmaus Bible College (183 students) offer intimate learning environments, while larger institutions like Dordt University (1,547 students) provide more program options and campus activities.

Related

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See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.