About Buena Vista University
The financial picture shows why many families choose Buena Vista despite the $40,190 sticker price. Students actually pay an average of $18,321 after aid, making this private education surprisingly affordable. Graduates earn a median of $49,156 ten years out, while carrying typical debt of $25,000. That translates to monthly loan payments of $265, which most graduates can handle given the strong employment rate of 96.5%.
The student body skews female at 65%, and nearly 400 students compete in 17 Division III sports as the Beavers. However, the 47% six-year graduation rate suggests some students struggle to finish. Those who do graduate benefit from strong alumni networks, particularly in education and business fields throughout Iowa and the Midwest.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 13:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 33.0%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 52.3%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 47.3%
- Retention Rate
- 76.3%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $49,156
- Carnegie Classification
- Master's University (Medium)
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Curriculum and Instruction. | Master | $58,943 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $47,494 |
| Finance and Financial Management Services. | Bachelor | $47,260 |
| Student Counseling and Personnel Services. | Master | $45,455 |
| Human Resources Management and Services. | Bachelor | $43,426 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $40,089 |
| Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other. | Bachelor | $39,369 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Bachelor | $39,369 |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Bachelor | $39,009 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $37,819 |
Campus Life
With just 1,378 students total, you'll recognize faces across campus within your first semester. The 13:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know your name and notice when you're absent. The 393 student-athletes represent nearly 30% of the student body, making Beaver athletics a central part of campus culture. Storm Lake itself offers basic amenities but limited nightlife options, so weekend activities center around campus events, intramural sports, and outdoor recreation on the lake. The Four-One-Four calendar system includes a January term that allows for internships or study abroad programs. Students often describe the atmosphere as supportive but isolated, where academic and social life blend together naturally due to the small size and remote location.
- Setting
- Town-Remote
- Housing Capacity
- 770 beds
- Calendar System
- Four-One-Four
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1891
Campus Safety (2023)
12 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stalking | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Arson | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Burglary | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Dating Violence | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 8°–26°F
- July Avg
- 62°–82°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 34.7"
- Annual Snowfall
- -741.3"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 34.8%
- Women
- 65.2%
- White
- 78.7%
- Black
- 3.0%
- Hispanic
- 12.2%
- Asian
- 0.7%
- In-State Students
- 63.8%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 42.5%
Location
- Address
- Storm Lake, Iowa 50588
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $49,156
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $49,392
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $36,000
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 58.2%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $265/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $25,000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Buena Vista University?
Buena Vista University accepts 77% of applicants, making it accessible for most students who meet basic requirements. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 930 and 1130 on the SAT. This Presbyterian-affiliated liberal arts college draws students primarily interested in education and business programs.
How much does Buena Vista University cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $18,321 after financial aid, despite the full tuition cost of $40,190. About 43% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating significant enrollment from middle and lower-income families. The median student debt at graduation is $25,000, which is manageable for a private college education.
What is the student-faculty ratio at Buena Vista University?
The university maintains a 13:1 student-faculty ratio with total enrollment of 1,378 students. This small size allows for personalized attention in a close-knit academic community. The college operates on a unique Four-One-Four calendar system that includes an intensive January term for special projects or internships.
What are the graduation outcomes at Buena Vista University?
About 52% of students graduate within four years, while 47% complete their degrees within six years. Graduates earn a median salary of $49,156 ten years after graduation, with a strong 96.5% employment rate. The relatively modest earnings reflect the school's focus on education and social service careers rather than high-paying technical fields.
Where is Buena Vista University located and what is campus life like?
The campus sits in Storm Lake, Iowa, a remote town setting that creates a tight-knit community atmosphere. With 770 students living on campus and 393 student-athletes competing in 17 Division III sports, campus life centers around residence halls and Beavers athletics. The remote location means students form strong bonds and rely heavily on campus activities for social life.
Does Buena Vista University have a religious affiliation?
Yes, Buena Vista University is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA), though founded in 1891, it welcomes students of all backgrounds. The student body is 79% white with growing Hispanic enrollment at 12%. The Presbyterian heritage influences the college's commitment to service learning and ethical leadership development.
