2024 Best Colleges for Public Policy in Iowa

• Iowa City, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  3,824 reviews

Freshman: The university of Iowa is a beautiful campus with lots of scenery and nature. Additionally, the university is very inclusive and allows all students to be themselves. I have only been here for a month and have already learned so much from the staff here. Our dining hall food is good and there are many options to choose from. Lastly, the housing here is great and all of the residence halls offer great community. I love it here!... Read 3,824 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $17,599

• SAT range 1130-1350

• 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

• Cedar Falls, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,451 reviews

Sophomore: The University of Northern Iowa is a very small, easy to get around campus that has lots of activities and chances for involvement. I loved that the campus staff, faculty and professors were always there to help students with any needs. All of the advisors were very understanding, encouraging and helpful when going through the process of deciding and changing majors. All of the classrooms are well kept which helps provide a safe learning space. One of my all time favorite aspects was their inclusivity to those with disabilities. As a disabled individual I was worried that going into college I would not receive the accommodations I rely on. However, the campus diversity and inclusion office was great at assuring that I have everything I need. The only thing I would change about this university is professor/student relationships. I would love to be able to connect more to my teachers to get the most out of my education.... Read 1,451 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $15,231

• SAT range 980-1190

• Decorah, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  765 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 765 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $25,929

• SAT range 1070-1270

• Davenport, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  771 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 771 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $24,844

• SAT range 1030-1190

• Sioux Center, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  414 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 414 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $26,662

• SAT range 1050-1290

• Orange City, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  387 reviews

Junior: My experience at Northwestern has been great! The first thing I noticed was how genuine the people are here. I am from Bozeman, Montana and I knew that if I was going to come so far from home I needed a strong support group at college. I can confidently say that I have found that here at Northwestern. There is such a strong Christ-centered community here which was exactly what I was looking for. I am a junior nursing major and I have had a great experience in the classroom and at clinicals in the area. The small student to professor ratio opens up more opportunities for one-on-one interactions. I feel the support of all of my professors to thrive in the classroom.... Read 387 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $24,848

• SAT range 940-1240

• Sioux City, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.51 out of 5  212 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 212 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $21,734

• SAT range —

• Ames, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  3,928 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 3,928 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $15,422

• SAT range 1070-1330

• Des Moines, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  399 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 399 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $20,434

• SAT range 920-1080

• Cedar Rapids, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  293 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 293 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $25,345

• SAT range —

• Dubuque, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  381 reviews

Senior: As being a transfer student, I already knew the atmosphere of what it was like to be a college student, but when coming to Clarke University I felt welcomed in right away. I didn't feel like just a number added to the University, instead I felt I was known. The campus and student life does a great job of encouraging students to support other sports teams, hosts free events for students to attend, and has lots of clubs/organizations to get students involved. Clarke University feels more like a big community and continues each year to find ways to create that community like atmosphere for the students. Professors, coaches, counselors, etc all want their students to feel the safe, and get the best education to succeed. If you are an individual who isn't meant for a huge campus, big classroom size, and being known as just a number than Clarke University is a place for you. There is so much here at Clarke that keeps you involved in the community and be known as an individual person!... Read 381 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $25,414

• SAT range 900-1120

• Waverly, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  633 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 633 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $23,022

• SAT range 990-1200

• Indianola, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  360 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 360 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $20,986

• SAT range 890-1280

• Ankeny, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  1,012 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 1,012 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,667

• SAT range —

• Cedar Rapids, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  705 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 705 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,740

• SAT range —

• Fort Dodge, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  412 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 412 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,507

• SAT range —

• Davenport, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  402 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 402 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,743

• SAT range —

• Storm Lake, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  360 reviews

Sophomore: I liked the classes and professors very much. I was a part of their softball team and that ruined the experience for me. The softball coach, Sarah Richardson, was not a very good coach at all. She didn’t know how to coach a softball team and couldn’t run practices. She was overall a terrible coach and left our team with a conference record of 2-14. Lots of girls, including myself, are entering the transfer portal to try to play for a better coach with more skills. The school and learning environment overall was very good, but the athletics there are not good.... Read 360 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 66%

• Net price $18,532

• SAT range 950-1110

• Fayette, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  470 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 470 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $22,888

• SAT range 870-1090

• Oskaloosa, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  180 reviews

Freshman: This is my second semester as a freshman. I am an only child from Texas. I didn't think I would make it past the first two weeks being four states away from my family. But now this school is my second family. It is a small private university so it is very tight-knit. Everyone, including the staff is so friendly and so willing to help. I knew I would never fit into a large university. So this was a perfect fit for me to be able to pursue my studies and for me to have an opportunity to play volleyball at a collegiate level. This school for its size offers so many sports so there are so many opportunities for so many athletes.... Read 180 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 58%

• Net price $21,112

• SAT range 830-1030

• Mason City, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  262 reviews

Niche User: I have loved my time at NIACC. I am currently a part time student while finishing high school. The professors are amazing and it is such a beautiful campus. The people are friendly, the facilities are wonderful, and the opportunities are endless. I love it so much!... Read 262 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,712

• SAT range —

• 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

• Calmar, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.09 out of 5  119 reviews

Sophomore: Everyone was very friendly and helpful when I was an in person student. When I was a student during Covid it was an adjustment for everyone, and I took several upper level science courses online. The support was definitely not the same, and for the higher classes such as physics and advanced chemistry classes, the only "tutor" is the instructor. That is a little frustrating, as sometime a different perspective and teaching style is exactly what helps everything clinic. Overall, I loved getting to know my instructors and classmates and valued my time at Northeast Iowa Community College.... Read 119 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,570

• SAT range —

• Mount Pleasant, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  200 reviews

Junior: I feel like this university is on a uphill climb, but there is still lots of room for improvement. There are really good professors at the school within the biology and chemistry department. The athletic aspect is growing as we just transferred to NAIA. At least right now it is an athlete based school. The campus itself is very pretty and small just the same as the town, very clean. The dorms are a bit small in the Mckibbin residence. ST is a bit better for everyone. Can’t wait for the new year!... Read 200 reviews

• grade C minus

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $34,988

• SAT range 820-1020