Iowa State University (ISU), located in Ames, Iowa, is a renowned public research university known for its strong agricultural, engineering, and veterinary programs. Established in 1858, ISU is one of the oldest land-grant universities in the United States, which emphasizes its commitment to education, research, and community service. The university's motto, "Science with Practice," reflects its dedication to applying scientific knowledge to real-world challenges, fostering a culture of innovation and learning. With a picturesque campus spanning over 1,800 acres, it features state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced laboratories, research centers, and modern classrooms, enhancing the educational experience for its diverse student body.

ISU is particularly noted for its vibrant campus culture and student life, which promotes a sense of community and engagement. With over 900 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and athletic teams, students have ample opportunities to explore their interests and develop leadership skills. The university also boasts a strong emphasis on athletics, with the Cyclones competing in the NCAA Division I Big 12 Conference. This commitment to sports fosters school spirit and camaraderie among students and alumni. Furthermore, ISU is recognized for its successful graduates, who have gone on to excel in various fields, including business, engineering, and public service. The university's focus on experiential learning and community involvement equips students with the skills and experiences necessary for successful careers, making ISU a premier destination for higher education.

Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention at Iowa State University

Over the years, Iowa State University has experienced a significant increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate and graduate students. For instance, from 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition has risen from $7,726 to $10,497, marking an increase of approximately 36%. The out-of-state tuition has seen a similar trend, escalating from $20,278 to $27,683, a 36.7% increase. This rising cost of education can be attributed to various factors, including inflation, increased operational costs, and the need for universities to maintain quality services amid growing enrollment.

In parallel, the graduation rates have shown a positive trend, particularly the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates, which increased from 36.8% in 2013 to 49.5% in 2023. This improvement suggests that Iowa State University has implemented effective retention strategies and support systems that encourage students to complete their degrees within the expected timeframe. The 150% graduation rate has also remained relatively stable, hovering around 74-75%, indicating that while more students are graduating on time, those who take longer to graduate are still completing their degrees.

Moreover, the retention rate for undergraduate students has remained consistently high, fluctuating between 85.8% and 88.6% over the years. This stability in retention rates reflects a supportive academic environment that helps keep students engaged and enrolled throughout their studies.

Overall, while the rising tuition fees present a financial challenge for many students, the concurrent increases in graduation rates and retention suggest that Iowa State University is successfully enhancing its educational offerings and student support mechanisms, thus providing value that may justify the escalating costs.

Analysis of Graduate Data from Iowa State University

The graduate data from Iowa State University reveals some notable trends and characteristics across various fields of study in 2023. One of the most significant observations is the dominance of Mechanical Engineering, which boasts the highest number of bachelor's degree graduates at 356. This indicates a strong interest and demand for engineering disciplines, particularly in a time when technological advancements and engineering innovations are critical to economic growth and sustainability.

In contrast, programs such as Veterinary Medicine and Applied Linguistics show a stark difference in graduation numbers. While Veterinary Medicine has 156 graduates at the doctorate level, it lacks any bachelor's or master's graduates, illustrating the program's unique structure and the rigorous pathway required to achieve a doctoral degree in this field. This could reflect the specialized nature of veterinary education, where practical experience and advanced studies are essential.

Moreover, the data highlights a low representation of international students across most programs, particularly in master's and doctorate levels, with the exception of Veterinary Medicine, which has one international doctorate graduate. This could suggest barriers to entry for international students in certain fields or a need for more supportive policies to attract global talent in various academic disciplines.

Overall, the data illustrates the varying levels of interest in different fields, the unique structure of certain programs, and the challenges faced by international students in pursuing advanced degrees. As the job market continues to evolve, it will be essential for educational institutions to adapt their offerings to meet the demands of both domestic and international students.

Trends in Iowa State University's Admissions and Ranking

Over the years, Iowa State University has experienced fluctuations in its national ranking and admission rates. Notably, the university's ranking has seen a decline from 89th in 2009 to 127th in 2023, before slightly improving to 121st in 2025. This trend may reflect the increasing competition among universities, as more institutions strive to enhance their programs and attract high-caliber students. The admission rates reveal an interesting narrative as well. The acceptance rate for male applicants was approximately 88% in 2009, while the female acceptance rate was about 90%. Over the years, the acceptance rates have generally declined, with male acceptance peaking at around 92% in 2020 and then stabilizing around 89% in recent years. The female acceptance rates also followed a similar pattern, reaching a high of 92% in 2020 before slightly decreasing. The total enrollment figures reveal a robust interest in Iowa State University, with over 5,700 students enrolled in 2023. However, the number of students denied admission has also been significant, indicating a competitive application process. The data on deferred admissions shows that the university has had to manage a substantial number of students who chose to postpone their enrollment, reflecting broader trends in higher education where students may take gap years or decide to attend other institutions. In summary, the trends in Iowa State University's rankings and admission rates suggest that while the institution remains a popular choice among students, it faces challenges in maintaining a strong national standing in an increasingly competitive landscape. The latest ranking for 2025 indicates some recovery, which may be a positive sign for the university's future trajectory.

Trends in Admissions Data at Iowa State University

The data from Iowa State University over the years reveals notable trends in student admissions, particularly in standardized test scores and submission rates. A significant decline in the percentage of students submitting SAT scores is observed, dropping from 13% in 2007 to as low as 7% in 2016 and 2017. However, this percentage saw a resurgence in recent years, reaching 19% in both 2019 and 2023.

In terms of test scores, the range for critical reading and mathematics scores has shown a fluctuation, with the lower quartile (25th percentile) scores generally trending downward from 2007 to 2016. For instance, the reading score dropped from 530 in 2007 to 460 in 2016, reflecting the potential challenges faced by students during this period. However, the scores appear to have stabilized or improved slightly in the subsequent years, indicating a possible shift in the academic preparedness of incoming students.

Moreover, the total number of SAT submissions has varied significantly, with a peak of 1,141 submissions in 2019, suggesting a heightened interest or necessity for standardized testing in the college admissions process during that time. This could correlate with broader educational trends or changes in admission policies.

The data highlights the evolving landscape of college admissions, reflecting broader changes in educational standards, student preparedness, and the role of standardized testing in the admissions process. As universities adapt to these changes, the implications for future admissions strategies and student support systems will be crucial for maintaining academic excellence.

Analysis of Student Demographics at Iowa State University in 2023

The student demographics at Iowa State University for 2023 reveal a diverse population, particularly among undergraduate students. A significant majority of the student body consists of undergraduate freshmen, with 5,728 individuals enrolled. The gender distribution among this group shows that 55.6% are male and 44.4% are female, indicating a slight male dominance.

Continuing students, referred to as undergraduate juniors, make up the largest segment of the student body with 17,883 students, maintaining a similar gender ratio with 56.1% males and 43.9% females. This pattern suggests a consistent trend of male students continuing their education at a higher rate than their female counterparts.

Transfer students represent a smaller cohort at 1,383, with a more balanced gender ratio of 54.4% male and 45.6% female. Graduate students, totaling 4,728, show an almost equal gender distribution, with females slightly outnumbering males at 50.4%.

The data also indicates that a substantial portion of the undergraduate population identifies as white, which is reflective of national trends in higher education institutions. However, the overall student body’s diversity is an important factor to consider, especially in light of current discussions around inclusion and representation in academia.

As universities strive for greater diversity, the statistics at Iowa State University suggest both progress and areas for improvement. With a growing focus on inclusivity, it will be vital for the institution to continue to engage with underrepresented groups and ensure that all students feel supported throughout their academic journeys.

Age Composition of Students at Iowa State University in 2023

The age distribution of students at Iowa State University in 2023 presents interesting insights into the demographics of the campus. Notably, the largest age group is comprised of students aged 18-19, with a total of 9,672 students, showcasing the university's strong appeal to younger, traditional students. This trend aligns with national statistics that indicate a growing number of high school graduates opting for immediate enrollment in higher education.

As students progress to the next age brackets, there is a noticeable decline in numbers, particularly in the 22-24 age range, where 5,146 students are enrolled. This decline may reflect the natural progression of students completing their undergraduate studies, with many moving on to graduate programs or entering the workforce. Interestingly, the data shows that graduate male students aged 25-29 outnumber their female counterparts, revealing potential gender disparities in higher education at this level.

Furthermore, the older age groups, particularly those aged 30 and above, represent a smaller fraction of the overall student population, with only 575 students aged 30-34 and even fewer in the 35-39 and 40-49 brackets. This may indicate that non-traditional students are less represented at Iowa State, a trend that universities nationwide are striving to address through adult education programs and flexible scheduling.

Overall, the data reflects a predominantly young and diverse student body, while also highlighting areas where the university can enhance support for older students and those pursuing advanced degrees.

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Iowa State University

The data on international student enrollment at Iowa State University over the years reveals notable trends and fluctuations in both undergraduate and graduate populations. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduates has generally remained low, peaking at 7.68% in 2011 before declining to 3.30% in 2023. This decline raises questions about the factors influencing international students' choices to study in the U.S., including economic conditions, visa regulations, and global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conversely, the graduate student population shows a more stable presence of international students, with percentages consistently higher than undergraduates. The proportion reached a high of 35.51% in 2018 and has remained around the mid-30s in recent years. This indicates that graduate programs at Iowa State may be more appealing to international students, possibly due to the focus on research opportunities, specialized programs, and the university's reputation in certain fields.

The overall decline in undergraduate international enrollment juxtaposed with the relatively stable graduate enrollment suggests a need for universities to reevaluate their recruitment strategies for undergraduate programs. As competition among universities increases globally, Iowa State University must enhance its marketing efforts and support systems to attract and retain international students, ensuring that it remains a viable option for those seeking a U.S. education.

In summary, while Iowa State University has successfully attracted a significant number of international graduate students, the decline in undergraduate numbers warrants attention, highlighting the importance of adapting to the changing landscape of higher education.

Here are some notable universities around Iowa State University:

1. Drake University - Ranked 179 in 2025, Drake University is a comprehensive university located in Des Moines, Iowa. It offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education.

2. Grinnell College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, Grinnell College is ranked 19 in 2025. It is known for its rigorous academics, commitment to social justice, and vibrant campus life.

3. University of Iowa - With a ranking of 98, the University of Iowa is a comprehensive university that offers a wide range of programs. It is particularly well-known for its writing program and strong research initiatives.

4. Creighton University - Ranked 121, Creighton University is a Jesuit institution located in Omaha, Nebraska. It offers a variety of undergraduate and professional programs with a focus on ethics and service.

5. Carleton College - This prestigious liberal arts college boasts a ranking of 8. Carleton is known for its rigorous curriculum, beautiful campus, and strong community engagement.

These institutions provide a rich diversity of academic programs and campus experiences, making them excellent choices for students in the region.

Analysis of Crime Rates at Iowa State University

The crime rate data from Iowa State University over the years presents a mixed picture, revealing fluctuations that reflect broader societal trends. From 2013 to 2021, the average number of crimes per 1,000 students showed a notable decline, with the peak in 2013 at 21.78 incidents per 1,000 students, decreasing to just 7.57 in 2021. This significant reduction could indicate successful crime prevention strategies, heightened awareness, or even a decrease in actual incidents, possibly influenced by changing campus dynamics during the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, the subsequent rise in crime rates in 2022 (11.33 per 1,000) and 2023 (15.33 per 1,000) raises concerns. The increase may correlate with a return to normalcy post-pandemic, as students return to campus and social activities resume, potentially leading to more opportunities for crime. It is crucial for the university to investigate the specific types of incidents contributing to this uptick, particularly regarding firearms-related arrests and alcohol-related offenses, as these areas have historically posed significant challenges on college campuses.

Moreover, the data highlights the importance of continuous dialogue around safety measures and mental health support for students. The rise in domestic violence and dating violence incidents, while not explicitly detailed in the data provided, remains a pressing issue nationally and likely resonates within the university community.

In conclusion, while Iowa State University has made commendable progress in reducing crime rates, recent increases demand ongoing attention and proactive measures to ensure a safe environment for all students. For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, more information can be found here: Crime Rate Calculation.