2024 Best Colleges for Political Science in Iowa

• Grinnell, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  444 reviews

Freshman: Grinnell College is a small campus, but is not to be underestimated. The academic rigor was much more intense than I expected, even though I knew I was in for an academic challenge. Languages, though incredibly educational, are almost unaccessible due to their rigor. Even in an intro language class, it is advised that you have experience with the language before taking the class. I think that some of the intro classes should be made slightly easier so they are less intimidating and more helpful for students wanting to learn a new language. Overall, I like the school, professors, classes, and my peers. Everyone wants to be there and works their hardest at school, sports, and extracurriculars, which makes it an encouraging and opportunity-filled place to be.... Read 444 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $37,423

• SAT range 1370-1530

• 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

• Ames, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  3,941 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 3,941 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $15,422

• SAT range 1070-1330

• 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

• Des Moines, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  983 reviews

Alum: The best part of my Drake experience is that they catered to the phase of my life I was in. For the first two years, I was provided a lot of hands-on experience and guidance from trusted advisors. They taught the importance of internships, networking, building a community on campus and finding close friendships to help me get through the challenges of being away at college. I thrived in this nurturing environment. Going into my third year, I found a passion for international business and language. It was encouraged to pursue passions beyond your major coursework and I can't say enough good things about the experiences I was able to have. I found leadership opportunities and found myself helping younger students achieve and build their passions. Upon graduation, I believe that helped me land my first position immediately in a field and role I love. I can't say enough good things about the curriculum, activities, advisors and peers at this university!... Read 983 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $29,507

• SAT range 1190-1410

• Cedar Falls, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,461 reviews

Freshman: I am quite pleased with my experience at the school. There are many options for food, in addition to dining halls. I also like that the campus is smaller, but it still provides many options to get its students involved. One of my favorite things is how many study spaces there are; there are lounges in the dorms, extra seating within each education building, multiple floors in the library, and more. I have found that in the music organizations I am in, there is generally a positive feeling. The people I have met are willing to support and help others. I also like that there a lot of options for classes, within my major and beyond. One thing I would like to see change is inclusion of air conditioning in all dorm buildings. For context, there was recently a heat wave and many students left their dorms to seek out other temporary housing. It seems unfair that student are forced to find another place to stay because the on-campus room they pay for creates painful living conditions.... Read 1,461 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $15,231

• SAT range 980-1190

• Dubuque, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  376 reviews

Sophomore: Most of the teachers are awesome! The administration is lacking competency unfortunately, especially when it comes to financial aid/tuition issues or credit transfers. The campus is pretty old, and most of the buildings do not have A/C. Although the campus terrain is beautiful, it is incredibly hilly and a bit treacherous in the winter months with steep inclines and lots of steps. As such, the campus overall is not ADA-compliant unless one drives and parks directly in front of the desired building--not walkable.... Read 376 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $20,068

• SAT range 960-1140

• Indianola, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  362 reviews

Freshman: Simpson College excels in providing a unique and welcoming experience. Any student who attends Simpson is sure to agree with the previous statement, and also probably mention the wide variety of inclusive groups and organizations. Athletics, music, extracurriculars, and clubs are just some of the options available and many students such as myself enjoy the variety. The faculty at Simpson have also contributed to my experience greatly. Smaller class sizes and faculty that truly cares about helping you succeed has impacted me so much more than I thought it would. Talking to professors whenever I need help, or going into office hours is way less daunting because of the effort Simpson College and its faculty bring to the table. Overall, I am incredibly happy with Simpson College and recommend it to not just anyone interested in going to a liberal arts college, but anyone who cares about being supported as a student and an individual.... Read 362 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $20,986

• SAT range 890-1280

• Sioux City, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  486 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 486 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $23,222

• SAT range 880-1120

• 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

• Pella, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  454 reviews

Alum: From the moment I stepped on campus as a high school junior, it felt like home. I went to a large suburban high school from another state and it was great to finally feel like something other than a number. My experience at Central was personalized to me, and I could get help whenever I needed it, both inside and outside the classroom. I feel that Central prepared me for life on the other side of college with a great array of classes and professors that challenged me to look at things from many different sides.... Read 454 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $22,966

• SAT range 1000-1260

• Mount Vernon, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.41 out of 5  753 reviews

Sophomore: I am from San Francisco, and it was a very big change going from California to Iowa but Cornell College really made it feel easy, except for the snow and the cold! I love most of the professors and they are all very dedicated to their subjects and classes. The campus is gorgeous and very nice, if not a bit hilly. The main hub of campus, Thomas Commons, is a nice place to relax every once in a while when I don’t want to go to my dorm room or just want a place to sit for a bit. I like the sense of comfort I have when walking around campus and the student body, a feeling probably started by our incredibly kind President Brand. While the upperclassmen dorms are a bit rough, they’re okay and livable (sometimes, hahaha). Overall there is little I’d change; I really do feel supported here both as a person and as a student.... Read 753 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $22,667

• SAT range 1130-1340

• 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

• 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

• 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 —

• Davenport, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  404 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 404 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,743

• 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 —

• Waverly, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  634 reviews

Alum: My experience at Wartburg positively changed who I was as a person primarily because of the community and amount of support that faculty and staff put into their students: the effort you put in you truly receive in return! I had multiple opportunities to put a part of something that I truly felt I belonged in: choirs, work studies, clubs/organizations, connecting with alumni and prospective students, so many second families I cherish. I was also a part of the COVID student population, and while that was a trying time for us all, I always felt safe and reassured by the efforts Wartburg made to make sure we could return to normalcy as quickly as possible while following guidelines. If I had the chance to go back to college and redo my undergraduate degree, I would absolutely choose Wartburg again and again for the people, the experiences, and the love that Wartburg showed me and I show back now!... Read 634 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $23,022

• SAT range 990-1200

• Sioux Center, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  417 reviews

Alum: Dordt isn't perfect (no college is), but in my experience as a student for 4 years, I loved it. Dordt is a school that puts faith first and they really invest in making people feel welcomed and known. I was challenged, encouraged, and supported the whole way through by faculty and staff, both academically, professionally, and spiritually. I met all of my lifelong friends here and due to the relationships built with my professors, I'd consider some of them friends too. After graduation, I felt prepared with the proper professional tools/skills to work in the field I am now. Yeah, Dordt is located in rural Iowa, but there was never a week that I was bored! There was always something to do with my friends. I loved the small class sizes, events, opportunities to get involved, academic quality, my study abroad program, the Christian atmosphere, and the community. I grew so much during my time here and I recommend Dordt to anyone who's looking for these things too.... Read 417 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $26,662

• SAT range 1050-1290

• Storm Lake, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  363 reviews

Sophomore: I have not yet started my classes, but my advisor has been amazing in getting where we are going! She helped me figure out my major as well. I am very excited to continue in the direction of getting my degree.... Read 363 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 66%

• Net price $18,532

• SAT range 950-1110

• 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 —

• 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 City, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.49 out of 5  214 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 214 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $21,734

• SAT range —