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Rural Colleges in Iowa

8 schools in Iowa. See our methodology.

Divine Word College in Epworth achieves a perfect 100% graduation rate with just 61 students, representing the unique character of Iowa's rural college market. These eight institutions serve communities where agriculture and manufacturing drive local economies, with graduates earning between $41,306 and $52,766 annually. North Iowa Area Community College offers the state's most affordable option at $8,849 net cost while maintaining a solid 55.2% graduation rate. The range spans from specialized seminary education to full community colleges serving farming communities. Upper Iowa University commands the highest net price at $23,172 but delivers the strongest earning potential at $52,766 for graduates. These schools connect directly to Iowa's economic foundation, preparing students for careers with major employers like Principal Financial and John Deere while serving the agricultural sector that defines much of the state's rural identity.
8
Schools
$15,006
Avg. Net Price
$46,485
Avg. Earnings
49.0%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Rural Colleges in Iowa

College listings
# School Setting Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate
1 Rural-Fringe 1,271 $8,849 55.2%
2 Rural-Distant 61 100.0%
3 Rural-Distant 1,736 $10,059 47.7%
4 Rural-Remote 2,021 $23,172 41.5%
5 Rural-Fringe 2,528 $10,298 31.5%
6 Rural-Remote 2,103 $21,683 29.0%
7 Rural-Remote 901 $15,975 38.3%
8 Rural-Fringe

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Divine Word College achieve a 100% graduation rate?

Divine Word College's perfect graduation rate stems from its highly selective seminary focus and tiny enrollment of just 61 students. This specialized religious institution provides intensive personal attention and structured academic programs designed specifically for students preparing for Catholic priesthood and missionary work.

How do community college costs compare to four-year options in rural Iowa?

Community colleges average around $10,000 annually, with North Iowa Area at $8,849 and Northeast Iowa at $10,059. Four-year institutions cost significantly more, with Upper Iowa University at $23,172 and Waldorf University at $21,683, representing more than double the community college expense.

Where do graduates typically find employment after these rural programs?

Graduates often work for Iowa's major employers including Principal Financial Group and John Deere, which maintain strong recruitment relationships with these schools. Many also enter agriculture-related fields, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors that form the backbone of Iowa's rural economy.

Does enrollment size affect graduation rates at these schools?

Smaller schools generally show better completion rates. Divine Word's 61 students achieve 100% graduation, while North Iowa Area with 1,271 students maintains 55.2%. Larger institutions like Hawkeye Community College, serving 2,528 students, drop to 31.5% graduation rates.

What acceptance rates can students expect at rural Iowa colleges?

Most rural Iowa colleges maintain accessible admission policies, with acceptance rates between 54% and 75%. Upper Iowa University is most selective at 54.2%, while Graceland University accepts 74.5% of applicants, reflecting these institutions' commitment to serving rural communities.

Related

Rural Colleges Nationally All Colleges in Iowa Cheapest Programs in Iowa

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.