2024 Best Colleges for Nursing in Iowa

• Iowa City, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  3,838 reviews

Freshman: Overall, there are so many resources available to students. Everywhere I go, it seems like university administration is dying to give away opportunities to students. Whether it be scholarships, clubs, food, or merch, I think every time I walk into the IMU there's an event involving a giveaway. The school did an amazing job planning and scheduling events for freshman during the OnIowa! week where only freshman had moved in. I actually met a lot of my current friends during that week. My only negative experience regarding administration is an inconsistency with the dining hall food and with completing work orders for dorms. Also, the apps used for doing laundry in the dorms have been glitchy, and sometimes prevent people from using machines that are clearly not in use. The campus is beautiful, and very different than any other campus I've been too because it's so engrained into the fabric of Iowa City itself. There's lots of bike paths and nature if you need a break from the city as well... Read 3,838 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $17,599

• SAT range 1130-1350

• Cedar Rapids, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  295 reviews

Freshman: Mount Mercy is a great university. The staff and students are friendly. The professors really care about your success and do everything they can to make sure you are successful. There are so many resources available to students like ACE (Academic Center for Excellence), the Mustang Market, and office hours with professors. By utilizing these things, I was able to make it through my freshman year of college.... Read 295 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $25,345

• SAT range —

• Davenport, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  773 reviews

Senior: My St. Ambrose University journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment I set foot on its picturesque campus, I knew I was in for an adventure. The academic opportunities and dedicated faculty have not only expanded my knowledge but also ignited a passion for learning. Beyond academics, the tight-knit community at St. Ambrose has fostered personal growth and lasting connections. The warm and welcoming atmosphere made me feel like part of a supportive family, and the staff's genuine care and guidance have been invaluable. Engaging in activities has allowed me to explore my interests, develop leadership skills, and create cherished memories with like-minded individuals. I am grateful for the transformative impact it has had on my life. This remarkable institution has not only prepared me academically but has also nurtured my personal and professional development, instilling in me a lifelong commitment to learning and service.... Read 773 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $24,844

• SAT range 1030-1190

• Decorah, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  767 reviews

Freshman: The community feeling at Luther College is exceptional. The friendly nature of both students and staff makes it easy to feel at home. The campus is small enough that one can recognize familiar faces while walking across it. Events such as Homecoming Week serve to create a sense of unity among the student body. Likewise, traditions like Christmas at Luther demonstrate how the college strives to make everyone feel included in celebrations regardless of religious affiliation or cultural background. Cultural opportunities are abundant at Luther College. Several events throughout the year celebrate music, dance, and other performing arts forms from different cultures worldwide. For instance, Nordic Fest takes place every summer where visitors can learn about Scandinavian culture through food vendors, exhibits displaying Viking artifacts and demonstrations on Norwegian weaving techniques by experienced local weavers.... Read 767 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $25,929

• SAT range 1070-1270

• Lamoni, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  336 reviews

Freshman: Graceland is a very diverse place with a large number of students being international and a good mix of locals and people from around the United States. A true positive is that the vast majority of these people are extremely polite. And this really helps Graceland carry a culture of maintaining a positive learning environment. A downfall of Graceland has to be the lack of activities/variance in food. Often COSA attempts a large variety of activities for students to participate in and the commons does a decent job of providing three meals a day. The problem here is that many of COSA's events occur during or directly after practice hours. This is confusing as the majority of Graceland student population is athletes. As far as the food goes, there isn't much in the way of variety and it can be hard to find a meal that suits your wants. However, I would like to maintain that Graceland gives students a rare opportunity to compete at the collegiate level and earn a good degree.... Read 336 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $18,595

• SAT range 880-1120

• Des Moines, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  156 reviews

Freshman: Someone is always there to help others in time of need and this school has great professionals that stand by their students, to see that their students become successful throughout their plan in life. They have the tool for their students to achieve their goals... Read 156 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $18,129

• SAT range —

• Orange City, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  391 reviews

Sophomore: I LOVE being a Raider! I wouldn't trade my college experience for the world, and I have been so blessed to call this school home. I have made some of the best friends and had the opportunity to interact with so many incredible individuals. I have relationships with not just my peers and my professors but with other staff members as well. If you want a smaller school, with BIG opportunities, this is the place to be! People here will know you by name and care for you in so many ways. You are not just changing your own life by coming to Northwestern you also have the opportunity to change the lives of others!... Read 391 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $24,848

• SAT range 940-1240

• Sioux Center, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  418 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at Dordt University has been excellent! They have great professors, staff, and students. The professors challenge you have help you grow academically as well as spiritually. The community on campus is spectacular. There are many events that go on during the week and many students attend them. There are also many opportunities to serve and grow in your faith and knowledge of Jesus. This school is a great school and I would highly recommend going on a visit!... Read 418 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $26,662

• SAT range 1050-1290

• Des Moines, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  400 reviews

Freshman: I thought Grand View was amazing! I love the community, being from a small town in the Midwest. Grand View was the perfect size and in the perfect area, because Des Moines is a “country big city.” I also really loved the small class sizes and the way the professors personally connected to the students. They understood that we have our own lives and they took that into consideration when dealing with our schoolwork.... Read 400 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $20,434

• SAT range 920-1080

• Sioux City, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  487 reviews

Sophomore: Morningside is a great university to attend! I have loved it there last year and it is definitely a good place for anyone looking to continue their education. It offers many wonderful opportunities that not only allow for a great education, but experiences like different ways to be involved in the community.... Read 487 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $23,222

• SAT range 880-1120

• Sioux City, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.49 out of 5  215 reviews

Sophomore: Briar Cliff University is a small private 4 year institution. With staff that are dedicated with making sure that the students have what they need and hold them accountable for making it to their classes and completing coursework. The ratio of student to professor is small, with 1 professor to 24 students, which allows more of a 1:1 ratio when you need assistance. With an active student government, the students voice is heard and charges made immediately after a problem is identified and addressed. Briar Cliff University is your home away from home with a beautiful scenery. Tuition lock on all incoming students making you keep your 1st year tuition all 4 years, making Briar Cliff University very affordable!... Read 215 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $21,734

• SAT range —

• Cedar Rapids, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  522 reviews

Freshman: Nestled in the vibrant city of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Coe College stands as a distinguished institution of higher learning, renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and character development. Since its founding in 1851, Coe College has been an educational beacon, dedicated to shaping well-rounded individuals prepared to tackle the challenges of a rapidly evolving world. One of Coe College's defining features is its strong academic programs, which provide students with a comprehensive and rigorous education. The college offers a diverse range of undergraduate majors and minors across various disciplines, ensuring that students can explore their passions and discover new intellectual horizons. Whether pursuing studies in the humanities, sciences, arts, or business, Coe College provides a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and analytical skills.... Read 522 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $19,141

• SAT range 1080-1300

• Dubuque, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.42 out of 5  434 reviews

Freshman: I have loved it here! University of Dubuque is beautiful and the workers work hard to keep it clean and well kept. Also, the professors and students are all friendly and wants to see everyone succeed. The University also incorporates God's word in the teachings. God is an important aspect in the community and school. Everyone there wants to see the students succeed and thrive.... Read 434 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $24,868

• SAT range 840-1070

• Dubuque, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  386 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Clarke College has been nothing short of amazing. From the moment I stepped onto campus, I was welcomed into a vibrant and inclusive community. The college has provided me with numerous opportunities to connect with fellow students through a wide range of activities. Whether it's joining clubs, participating in events, or engaging in community service, I've been able to build friendships and create lasting memories. Additionally, Clarke College has done a commendable job of nurturing your spiritual growth. They have created a supportive environment where I can explore and deepen your spirituality, helping I develop a sense of purpose and meaning. Overall, my time at Clarke College has been filled with personal growth, meaningful connections, and a strong sense of community. I couldn't be happier with your college experience!... Read 386 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $25,414

• SAT range 900-1120

• Ames, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  3,946 reviews

Alum: I was fortunate to have a number of options for colleges to attend, and am thankful I went with Iowa State! To me, this was the Goldilocks option: big college in a small town with a good balance between academics, social life, clubs, leadership, sports, and other opportunities. The campus is beautiful, the people are nice, the tradition and college spirit are strong. The classes, student jobs, and leadership experiences I held directly prepared me for grad school and my professional career. I have nothing but positive things to say about my experience and always look forward to returning to Ames as an alum.... Read 3,946 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $15,422

• SAT range 1070-1330

• Waterloo, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  56 reviews

Other: Overall, I would say that I am having a wonderful time at Allen College! One of my favorite things so far is how the professors are so engaged with their students and truly want them to succeed. I have never had a problem with any of them. On top of that, any of the staff one can encounter is kind and helpful to any confused student or visitor. The overall facilities are good overall; no complains there.... Read 56 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,953

• SAT range —

• Ankeny, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  1,019 reviews

Sophomore: The professors and TRio advisors are absolutely amazing! They were extremely understanding and gentle with me during my first semester back to school. They made sure I was aware of any and all assistance available to me, especially if it would benefit my grades and GPA. DMACC is an overall great choice for any high-school graduate or adult that wants to further their education!... Read 1,019 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,667

• SAT range —

• Cedar Rapids, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  709 reviews

Junior: Kirkwood has a very welcoming campus! Every staff member is always willing to help and take time to figure out what works best for you. There are many options, such as the writing center or different tutoring choices, that are always available for students to use. All of my professors have been very kind and helpful, they are always willing to meet one on one. Kirkwood also has many different opportunities to get involved on and off campus, which is nice because it keeps campus fun and you involved in the community!... Read 709 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,740

• SAT range —

• Fort Dodge, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  414 reviews

Other: I enjoyed my online experience with Iowa Central because the staff and faculty are very helpful when it comes to navigating my online degree. I am a dual enrollment student and am currently in high school, so I was grateful to have people who could help me with questions about college and my degree specifically. Additionally, the course options were intriguing and the materials were academically challenging and interesting. Overall, I had a pretty good experience during my time of enrollment with Iowa Central Community College.... Read 414 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,507

• SAT range —

• Council Bluffs, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  489 reviews

Freshman: While I haven’t officially started there yet, the process of getting to where I am has been amazing! They were super quick and efficient in getting me into a meeting to discuss with an admissions counselor! She was super knowledgeable and answer any and all of our questions. She was also super helpful and reached out consistently to make sure my process was going smoothly!... Read 489 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,403

• SAT range —

• Davenport, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  405 reviews

Sophomore: I love Eastern Iowa Community College. The support that I have received attending this school has been just what I needed to complete the difficult maze of education. From the financial advisors to the instructors, the librarians to the advisors, everyone has been helpful and encouraging. I have enjoyed my education here and at excited to start the next chapter of my academic career that I am prepared for because of EICC.... Read 405 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,743

• SAT range —

• Waterloo, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  328 reviews

Other: As a student at Hawkeye Community College in Waterloo, Iowa, I've had an enriching educational experience. The college's diverse programs cater to various interests, fostering my academic and career goals. Practical learning opportunities and internships have been invaluable. To improve, Hawkeye can invest in winter infrastructure and forge international partnerships. Hosting public events and collaborating with local businesses can contribute to community growth. Hawkeye is a place where students grow and thrive.... Read 328 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,359

• SAT range —

• Ottumwa, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  280 reviews

Freshman: I absolutely love this college. They have great online opportunities for students who can’t attend on campus. I personally can’t do on campus so I’m fully online which is great because it gives me more time and space to have a full time job and career to build. The staff are especially great. They have helped my register for classes, I’m starting in the fall. I’m only going to this college for a few years until I’m able to attend a university for vet school. I’m thankful for the staff who helped my get my financial aid under control that way I’m not in any rush to cover my tuition for the 1st term. They also helped my find where I can order my books that are for my classes. I’m taking biology as a major because I know that that’s one step closer to getting some of my main courses done for a university that I would love to attend. This college is also not too far from where I live which is a bonus because if I need anything I can just go to the office for anything that I need.... Read 280 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,337

• SAT range —

• Sioux City, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  259 reviews

Niche User: What I love about this school is how easy-going everyone is! There are very few careless professors and students. The classes are difficult only to an extent. However, I so believe the school could expand further with the campus and the overall material in such courses.... Read 259 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,282

• SAT range —

• Fayette, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  471 reviews

Sophomore: Upper Iowa was very flexible with my schedule and offers online self-paced classes that allow you to complete your work on your own schedule. This was very helpful and allowed me to work around my busy schedule. Super military friendly as well! I do wish that they offered more classes as online self-paced options, but I was still able to finish my associate's degree entirely online.... Read 471 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $22,888

• SAT range 870-1090