Best Online Colleges in Iowa

Colleges with online classes offer a flexible option to earn your degree while also balancing many of life's other responsibilities. Check out the most popular online programs of 2023 below.

Best Accredited Colleges

#1 Mount Mercy University

Cedar Rapids, IA

$22429

58%

Mount Mercy University offers distance learners 10 online bachelor's degrees, including business, management, and an RN-to-BSN. All programs at this top online Iowa University allow degree-seekers to continue working full time. Courses feature both an asynchronous and accelerated format, while dedicated professors respond to student questions and concerns within one business day. MMU has created an online campus culture to help learners succeed and provide a unique educational experience. The Mercy App connects learners to MMU 24/7, and students who live in and around Cedar Rapids can take advantage of on-campus resources. Services available to all online degree-seekers include scheduled conversations with academic and career advisors, as well as one-on-one tutoring. Application requirements include a high school diploma and ACT or SAT scores. The RN-to-BSN program requires a valid nursing license and a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Although MMU does not award institutional or departmental scholarships, the university provides a 10% tuition discount to learners who work for one of 24 partner companies.

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#2 Buena Vista University

Storm Lake, IA

$20016

60%

With more than 30 online programs, Buena Vista University attracts students with a broad variety of academic interests. Notable undergraduate programs include sports business, health services leadership, and criminal justice. Additionally, BVU provides seven graduate endorsement programs for primary and secondary school educators in areas such as special education and significant support needs. This top online Iowa university provides students with online learning software that features a grade portal, a payment portal, tutor access, and virtual office hours. The university's community college partners -- the Iowa Community College Online Consortium -- ensure that degree-seekers can also transfer credits seamlessly. BVU offers a start date every eight weeks, making the university an excellent option for prospective students who want to start a program as soon as possible. Applicants without at least 24 transferable credits submit transcripts or GED scores. BVU prefers applicants with a minimum 3.0 high school or undergraduate GPA. Phi Theta Kappa members may qualify for an institutional scholarship.

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#3 Morningside College

Sioux City, IA

$22147

56%

Located in Sioux City, Morningside College is affiliated with the United Methodist Church. The college's online bachelor's completion program is designed for students who already possess an associate degree or significant college credit. This program, a bachelor of science in organizational management, focuses on leadership in various organizational settings. Some degree-seekers with transfer credit can graduate in just one year. The school also offers several online and hybrid master's degrees in teaching and nursing. Learners at this top online Iowa college who need academic and career support turn to the experts at the Krone Advising Center. These highly trained advisors direct students to valuable resources, such as the writing center and career services. Both students and alumni can use Handshake software to explore job opportunities throughout Iowa. Morningside accepts new students at five points throughout the year. Undergraduate applicants should possess at least 50 transferable credits and at two years of work experience in any field.

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#4 Iowa State University

Ames, IA

$13949

73%

Iowa State University offers an online bachelor's in liberal studies that allows learners to create a personalized, 36-credit concentration in areas such as English literature, mathematics, and military studies. This flexibility attracts degree-seekers undecided about a major and career path. Additionally, all courses use an asynchronous curriculum, and the school offers online courses in the spring, summer, and fall semesters. With dozens of online courses to choose from, degree-seekers work one-one-one with an advisor to explore different topics and choose a concentration. Prospective students can also speak to an advisor to discuss academic and career goals. Applicants should possess an associate degree or at least 60 undergraduate credits from an accredited school. Iowa State may admit applicants who do not meet this requirement. All learners pay the same per-credit tuition rate and fees regardless of residency. Additionally, prospective students submit only one scholarship application to apply to all Iowa State scholarship opportunities.

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#5 William Penn University

Oskaloosa, IA

$20214

35%

A private school located in Oskaloosa, William Penn University offers two online degrees: a bachelor's in elementary education and a bachelor's in physical education. The latter program allows learners to specialize in a specific grade range. Additionally, students can personalize a degree by selecting one of five endorsement areas, including reading (K-8) and strategist (5-12). These endorsements enhance an Iowa teaching license, but may not satisfy other states' endorsement requirements. WPU's Student Success Center provides peer tutoring in general education topics, and online degree-seekers can receive help either over the phone or through video conferencing. Career services at this top online Iowa university include career mentoring, as well as cover letter and resume assistance. Prospective degree-seekers can apply through the mail. Applicants self-report standardized test scores, and WPU may request an official report. Online learners who already work in the education field may qualify for a tuition reduction that caps tuition at $5,000 per year.

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#6 University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA

$14845

74%

Iowa's premier public university, the University of Iowa offers 39 online degrees and certificates. Bachelor's programs that lead to in-demand careers include RN-to-BSN, social work, and enterprise leadership. The university also offers one online endorsement in education leadership -- an attractive option for in-state public school teachers. Additionally, many master's and certificate programs allow learners to study in a hybrid format. UI offers extensive resources that help learners familiarize themselves with learning online. Prospective students can take a sample course to see if online learning at UI is right for them. The university provides 24/7 technical support services. Each semester, advisors work closely with students to select from more than 600 online courses. UI admits new students in the fall and spring semesters. Application requirements for undergraduate programs include high school transcripts -- UI also accepts GED scores -- and SAT or ACT scores. Scholarship opportunities open to online learners award $1,000. UI typically sets scholarship application deadlines around July 1 and December 1.

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#7 St Luke's College

Sioux City, IA

$20290

100%

St. Luke's College offers two online programs -- a bachelor's in nursing and a bachelor's in health science -- to prepare learners for in-demand healthcare careers. The nursing major builds on associate-level knowledge and emphasizes coursework in proactive nursing and course assessment. The health science program allows students to personalize their degree by taking electives such as pathophysiology or culture and diversity in healthcare. St. Luke's offers both full-time and part-time graduation tracks, a boon for learners already employed in the healthcare field. All online learners complete an in-depth student orientation before registering for courses. This top online college in Iowa also employs tutors and resume coaches. Both first-time and transfer students can apply. Freshmen applicants should submit a high school diploma or GED scores, and transfer credit should reflect a minimum 2.0 undergraduate GPA. Learners who maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA may qualify for one of many endowed scholarship opportunities.

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#8 Upper Iowa University

Fayette, IA

$23525

41%

Upper Iowa University offers dozens of online associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees, as well as professional certificates. The college also boasts satellite campuses in five states. Undergraduates can customize a degree at this top online university in Iowa by completing minors such as journalism, marketing, or psychology. Academic, career, and IT support at UIU are easy to access. The university provides multiple student tutorials that teach learners how to succeed in online learning. Additionally, the Academic Success and Career Development Departments boast multiple resources, including job search boards and anti-plagiarism guides. UIU accepts high school transcripts or GED scores from freshman applicants. Graduate programs require a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA. UIU posts new scholarship opportunities for distance education students throughout the year. Each scholarship requires a separate application.

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#9 Clarke University

Dubuque, IA

$26909

63%

The online RN-to-BSN program at Clark University is the perfect choice for practicing Iowa RNs who want to increase career and salary potential. The fully online curriculum features coursework in care across the lifespan, health policy leadership, and community healthcare. This top online Iowa university accepts up to 95 transfer credits, meaning some learners can graduate in just 12 months. Nursing students at Clarke benefit from an online learning network that integrates the university's many student support services. Learners can receive academic coaching through video conferencing or by visiting the Margaret Mann Academic Resource Center. The nursing program also boasts an in-depth career website that provides information on honor societies, networking, and job hunting. Prospective degree-seekers can apply for one of five annual start dates. Applicants should possess an active Iowa nursing license and adequate transfer credit. Incoming learners may qualify for one or more scholarship opportunities exclusive to nursing students.

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#10 Briar Cliff University

Sioux City, IA

$18409

42%

Briar Cliff University offers online degree completion programs across six majors, including accounting, nursing, and social work. Unlike many similar programs at top online Iowa colleges and universities, BCU also accepts freshmen degree-seekers. All programs accept up to 90 transfer credits, and some students can earn a degree in just one year. Prospective degree-seekers can speak with an advisor before enrolling, and all students meet with an academic advisor at least once per semester. Additionally, the Career Development Office helps learners and alumni explore internship and career opportunities through the College Central Network. BCU accepts new degree-seekers in the spring and fall semesters. Incoming learners who possess an associate degree receive 62 transfer credits automatically, and students can earn additional credit by taking a challenge exam. Nursing degree-seekers who work at one of five local healthcare facilities qualify for a reduced tuition rate. Other financial aid opportunities require a separate application.

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#11 Iowa Wesleyan University

Mount Pleasant, IA

$25003

27%

Students at Iowa Wesleyan University can choose from numerous fully online undergraduate and graduate degrees. Each undergraduate program boasts 1-5 concentration areas, and graduate degrees prepare students leadership positions in the education and business fields. Unique bachelor's degrees at this top online Iowa university include criminal justice with a focus on homeland security and business with a focus on supply chain management. IW provides online learners with the same academic success tools that on-campus students receive. Through messaging or video conferencing, learners can consult with tutors, academic advisors, and career coaches. Technical support specialists can also help degree-seekers during university business hours. Additionally, IW provides learners with multiple guides on how to successfully learn online. IW admits new students at six points throughout the year and accepts up to 90 transfer credits. The university also awards transfer credit for work experience and independent study, among other forms of education. Partner organization employees receive a tuition discount, and service members may qualify for an institutional scholarship.

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#12 University of Dubuque

Dubuque, IA

$22822

43%

The University of Dubuque's Learning Institute for Fulfillment and Engagement gives adult learners ages 23 and over the opportunity to complete an accelerated online bachelor's program in one of three areas: business administration, healthcare leadership, or criminal justice. Courses use synchronous, evening meeting times to allow students to work full time or maintain other obligations. Degree-seekers who live in and around Dubuque can study in a hybrid format. Additionally, UD boasts an entirely online seminary program. To help nontraditional students succeed academically, UD created its Academic Support and Success Center. All learners can receive one-on-one tutoring services. First-generation college students can participate in the federal TRIO program, which provides degree-seekers extra services at no additional cost. Prospective students can apply for one of nine annual start dates. In addition to the age requirement, UD asks that all applicants possess a minimum of three years of work experience in any field. Incoming degree-seekers at this top online Iowa university may qualify for a federally backed grant or loan.

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#13 University of Northern Iowa

Cedar Falls, IA

$15942

68%

The University of Northern Iowa offers continuing and distance education in the form of four bachelor's degrees and over two dozen master's degrees and certificates. Learners who already possess an associate degree can earn a bachelor's in elementary education in just two years. Master's programs at UNI lead to in-demand careers in instructional technology, principalship, and public policy. Additionally, some programs feature a hybrid learning option. UNI provides valuable resources to both students and faculty. Learners can access IT support during office hours, as well as support guides that discuss online learning best practices and how to use the online student portal. Each program also boasts a highly trained and knowledgeable advisor who works with learners one-on-one. New programs start in the spring, summer, and fall semesters. In-state and out-of-state students pay the same per-credit tuition rate plus a small technology fee for each course. Additionally, learners at this top online college in Iowa who take at least six credits per semester may qualify for a merit-based scholarship or need-based grant.

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#14 Maharishi International University

Fairfield, IA

$18147

64%

Formerly known as Maharishi University of Management, Maharishi International University offers two online bachelor's and six online master's programs in areas such as sustainable business and integrative medicine. The university's MFA in screenwriting program features multiple residencies -- both on campus and in Los Angeles -- and a unique mentorship program that pairs students with an industry leader. Learners in this program also receive an in-depth education in business and marketing. To help learners succeed academically, MUM developed a block system where students complete one course per month. Although each course uses an accelerated format, learners receive a three-day holiday to rejuvenate before starting the next block. Student support services at this top online Iowa university include 24/7 IT help and a mental health wellness program. Undergraduate applicants should possess a high school diploma. For learners with prior college-level education, MUM accepts more than 60 transfer credits. The university requires graduate school applicants to have a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA.

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#15 Graceland University-Lamoni

Lamoni, IA

$18302

50%

With campuses in Iowa and Missouri, Graceland University - Lamoni offers online bachelor's and master's degrees for a broad range of learners. For instance, practicing teachers can earn a master's in instructional leadership, literacy instruction, or special education. Business learners have three bachelor's programs from which to choose, including a track in organizational leadership. Additionally, online nursing programs boast both RN-to-BSN and RN-to-MSN options. GU understands that students have responsibilities outside the classroom, and as a result, all courses are delivered in an asynchronous format. In addition to career and academic counselors, this top Iowa university employs professional personal counselors who help learners with depression, marital issues, and other problems. Admission requirements vary by program, but often include a GPA and standardized test score cutoff. Transfer applicants must have a minimum 2.0 undergraduate GPA. GU also considers each applicant's class rank.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best online colleges in Iowa?

Some of the best online colleges in Iowa include the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, and the University of Northern Iowa. These institutions offer a wide range of online programs and have a strong reputation for academic excellence.

2. Can I earn a degree entirely online in Iowa?

Yes, many colleges and universities in Iowa offer fully online degree programs. These programs allow students to complete their coursework and earn a degree without having to attend classes on campus.

3. How do online classes in Iowa work?

Online classes in Iowa typically involve accessing course materials, participating in discussions, and submitting assignments through a virtual learning platform. Students can usually complete the coursework at their own pace, but there may be deadlines for assignments and exams.

4. Are online degrees from Iowa colleges respected by employers?

Yes, online degrees from reputable Iowa colleges are generally respected by employers. It's important to choose an accredited institution and ensure that the online program you're interested in has a good reputation.

5. Can I transfer credits earned at another college to an online program in Iowa?

Many online programs in Iowa accept transfer credits from other colleges and universities. However, the specific transfer policies may vary between institutions. It's best to contact the admissions office of the online program you're interested in to inquire about their transfer credit policies.

6. How much does it cost to earn an online degree in Iowa?

The cost of earning an online degree in Iowa varies depending on the institution and program. Tuition rates can range from a few hundred dollars per credit hour to several thousand dollars per semester. It's important to research and compare the costs of different online programs before making a decision.

7. Are there financial aid options available for online students in Iowa?

Yes, online students in Iowa are eligible for various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans. It's recommended to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal and state financial aid programs.

8. Can I receive support services as an online student in Iowa?

Yes, most online colleges in Iowa provide support services for their online students. These services may include online tutoring, academic advising, career counseling, and access to library resources. It's important to inquire about the available support services when researching online programs.

9. Are there any residency requirements for online programs in Iowa?

Residency requirements for online programs in Iowa vary between institutions. Some programs may require occasional on-campus visits for orientations, exams, or specific courses. It's important to review the program's requirements and contact the admissions office for clarification.

10. How long does it take to complete an online degree in Iowa?

The time it takes to complete an online degree in Iowa depends on various factors, including the program's length, the number of credits taken per semester, and the student's individual pace. On average, bachelor's degree programs can take around four years to complete, while master's degree programs can take one to two years.