2024 Top Colleges for Trades and Personal Services in Iowa

• 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

• 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

• 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 —

• Forest City, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  142 reviews

Freshman: I love Waldorf University, everyone is so welcoming! The facility is beautiful and the faculty goes above and beyond for their students. There is so much diversity amongst the students too, which i personally love because you meet so many new people. As a student athlete, Waldorf makes balancing life easier with the guidance from academic advisors and coaches. Waldrof University is for everyone and anyone with passion and devotion to succeed... Read 142 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $21,483

• SAT range 920-1110

• 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 —

• Estherville, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  92 reviews

Junior: A smaller community college with diversity. Great settings to learn under, smaller sized classes, awesome instructors, friendly staff. Always willing to help with any questions, free one on one tutoring, many options to choose from. Very decent price.... Read 92 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,294

• SAT range —

• Ankeny, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  131 reviews

Freshman: This college has to be the most biblically advanced and local discipleship-oriented college in the world! Faith has been a great ministry tool for any person who is looking to jump into God's Word and learn how to direct their lives in the right direction. With top professors, and a smaller student body, its perfect for discipleship and greater for the locality. Challenging yet captivating classes,and a beautiful campus in the heart of Ankeny as well.... Read 131 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $16,851

• SAT range 1020-1180

• Cedar Falls, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,462 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 1,462 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $15,231

• SAT range 980-1190

• 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 —

• 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 —

• Marshalltown, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  117 reviews

Junior: My experience has been amazing at MCC! I have met soo many amazing faculty and made so many friends! I will cherish all of the memories I made bowling and canvas painting that were organized by the college. Being in the nursing program has been difficult but the last 3 years at MCC have been the best I've had in a long time! I am so thankful for all of the faculty that have supported me beyond measure throughout my schooling. I truly don't know where I would be without them and really appreciate everything they have done for me. I would recommend MCC to any high school seniors in my area that want to stay local because everyone is soo friendly and inviting and all of the faculty and students are nice and so welcoming!... Read 117 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,068

• SAT range —

• Mason City, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  263 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 263 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,712

• 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 —

• Calmar, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  121 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 121 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,570

• SAT range —

• Sheldon, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  70 reviews

Graduate Student: In my last years of high school, I didn't know what I wanted to do for a career. My mom suggested powerline, as she works for the City of Forest City, and all of their linemen are outdoorsmen like me, and they love their jobs. I gave it a lot of thought, then decided to apply to Sheldon. As it took a year to get into NW Iowa, I used that year to get my welding degree at NIACC to complement my powerline. Sheldon is a top-rated school for powerline, and everyone I graduated with were able to secure great jobs because of the education they received there. I lived on campus in the newest dorms, which turned out great, and I made many lasting friendships. The teachers are top-notch and know their stuff. Northwest Iowa Community College gave me an excellent education that I am now using with the Missouri Valley Union Apprenticeship Program, which provides excellent wages, benefits, and priceless work experience! Thank you to NW Iowa for starting me on the career of a lifetime.... Read 70 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,613

• 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 —

• 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

• 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•

• 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

• 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 —

• 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

• West Burlington, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  221 reviews

Freshman: I enjoy the campus and how the college reaches out to students. They plan a lot of fun activities for students. SCC cares about the students and teaches them to prioritize their health, whether physical or mental. That is important in college, so having faculty care about you gives you the encouragement to continue your education and the journey to your dream career. I love that it is a small campus because I do not have to take a shuttle bus to get to my next class. I am able to walk and enjoy the scenery leading to my class. Though SCC is small, they are always looking for opportunities to improve the campus and build the buildings students need. The professors will respond as soon as they can, which most often than not is within that day or the next, and help with your problems or questions. I am very glad to be at SCC and have such a kind community.... Read 221 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,926

• SAT range —

• 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 —

• Creston, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  137 reviews

Freshman: I loved my time at SWCC. The community and campus is amazing. If you are wanting somewhere that you can be involved, this is the place for you! Everyone is included, everyone is welcome, and everyone is family. Great teachers and staff, events are always happening on campus. On campus housing is spacious and apartment style. There is also plenty of people renting in the community within short distance to the school!... Read 137 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,766

• SAT range —

• Iowa Falls, IA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  138 reviews

Sophomore: Ellsworth Community College is an amazing choice for a quality 2 year college. All of the professors that I have met are outstanding, humble people that know what they are talking about. I am majoring in Animal Science and Agribusiness and am almost ready for a full time career because I am getting all of the resources I need to succeed. The everyday classes feel like small, close-knit high school classes, which makes it easier to reach out to professors and get all the help I may need within the day. You form very close relationships with your professors and they actually care about every single individual by getting to really know them. My only complaint about the school is the food, because all full-time students are required to have a meal plan, the food should at least be decent. Overall, my experience and friends that I have made has been unforgettable.... Read 138 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,623

• SAT range —