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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Upper Iowa University

Fayette, Iowa · www.uiu.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

96.5%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$19,475

$29,596 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

3,054

Student-faculty ratio 25:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

41.4%

4-year; 6-year rate 46.2%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Upper Iowa University (UIU), located in Fayette, Iowa, is a private university known for its commitment to personalized education and a strong emphasis on liberal arts. Established in 1857, UIU has a rich history and a diverse student body, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university's core mission is encapsulated in its motto, "A World of Opportunities," reflecting its dedication to providing students with the skills, knowledge, and experiences necessary to succeed in a global society. The campus is characterized by a friendly and inclusive atmosphere, where students from various backgrounds come together to learn and grow.

One of the standout features of Upper Iowa University is its flexible learning options, which include traditional on-campus classes, online programs, and hybrid formats. This adaptability caters to the diverse needs of students, including working professionals and those seeking a non-traditional education path. The university boasts a low student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and support from experienced faculty members. Additionally, UIU emphasizes experiential learning, offering internships and practical experiences that enhance employability upon graduation. The vibrant campus life includes various student organizations, athletics, and cultural events, fostering a well-rounded educational experience that prepares students for both professional and personal success. Overall, Upper Iowa University is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment that promotes academic excellence and personal growth.

Analysis of Key Data Trends at Upper Iowa University

Upper Iowa University, a private institution, has witnessed significant changes in tuition fees, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates over the years. The tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students have steadily increased from approximately $24,400 in 2014 to about $33,639 in 2023, marking an increase of around 37.9% over this period. This rising cost of education often raises concerns regarding affordability and accessibility for prospective students.

In terms of student enrollment, there has been a notable decline in both undergraduate and graduate student numbers. For instance, undergraduate enrollment dropped from 4,645 in 2013 to just 2,463 in 2023. This decline could be indicative of several factors, including increasing tuition costs, changing demographics, or shifts in student preferences towards other institutions. Such a trend poses challenges for the university’s financial stability and its ability to maintain diverse academic programs.

Graduation rates have shown some fluctuations, particularly the 100% graduation rate for undergraduates, which experienced a peak in 2022 at approximately 40.7% but fell to about 24.2% in 2023. This drop raises questions about the effectiveness of student support systems and the overall academic environment at the university. Additionally, the retention rate has varied, peaking at 74% in 2021 and dropping to approximately 56.8% in 2023. High retention rates are crucial for universities, as they often correlate with student satisfaction and institutional success.

Overall, Upper Iowa University faces the pressing need to address tuition affordability and enhance academic support to improve student outcomes and enrollment figures, ensuring a sustainable future in an increasingly competitive higher education landscape.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Rural, remote
Nearest major city
Madison, about 120 mi
Nearest international airport
Des Moines International Airport (DSM), about 130 mi
Fayette, Iowa
Also known as
UIU
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Kathy Franken (President)
Phone
5634255200
City
Fayette, Iowa
Address
605 Washington St, Fayette, IA 52142-1857

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
95.7%
Women
97.4%

In 2020: men 55.0%, women 45.8%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Upper Iowa University

The admission rates at Upper Iowa University over the years reveal a fluctuating trend, particularly in the acceptance of male and female students. The male admission rate has seen a notable decline from approximately 75% in 2011 to around 54% in 2023, indicating a more competitive environment for male applicants. Conversely, the female admission rate has also decreased, though it remains relatively higher than that of male applicants in most years.
The total enrollment figures varied significantly from 145 in 2010 to a peak of 271 in 2016, reflecting the university's shifting appeal and possibly its marketing strategies or academic offerings. Interestingly, the number of denied applications has generally increased, suggesting a growing applicant pool or perhaps a more selective admissions process.
The number of deferrals has shown substantial variation, particularly peaking at 913 in 2016, which could indicate changing student preferences or the university’s response to external factors, such as economic conditions or the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on higher education.
Overall, these trends suggest that Upper Iowa University is navigating a dynamic landscape in higher education admissions, balancing between maintaining enrollment numbers and establishing a more selective admissions process. As competition intensifies, it will be crucial for the university to adapt its strategies to attract and retain a diverse student body while ensuring quality education and support.

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition

Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 2% submitted SAT, 13% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

ACT composite17–23
ACT composite
17–23
253036

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Upper Iowa University

The data for Upper Iowa University over the years presents an interesting trend in the submission of standardized test scores for admissions. The number of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, with a notable increase observed in 2019 and 2020, where 18% and 23% of admitted students submitted their SAT scores, respectively. This trend may reflect broader changes in college admissions policies, possibly influenced by the growing number of institutions adopting test-optional policies.

The SAT reading and math scores have also shown variability. For instance, the 25th percentile SAT reading score in 2023 is recorded at 430, while the 75th percentile is at 540, indicating a diverse range of academic readiness among admitted students. Such data can be indicative of the university's efforts to maintain a balance between accessibility and academic standards.

In contrast, the ACT scores demonstrate a consistent submission rate, with approximately 27% of students submitting their scores in 2021. The ACT composite scores have shown a steady range, suggesting that while some students may excel in one area, the overall performance on the ACT remains stable.

The overall trend indicates a dynamic shift in how prospective students approach college admissions. As more universities move toward holistic admissions processes, the reliance on standardized test scores may continue to decrease, allowing for a more diverse student body that reflects a variety of talents and experiences beyond test scores. This evolution also aligns with recent discussions surrounding equity and access in higher education, underscoring the importance of considering multiple facets of student potential.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 10 in 10

452 applicants in 2025, 96.5% admitted

436 admitted 16 not admitted Yield 33.9%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate930 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's67627 international (4.0%)
Master's2424 international (1.7%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
141
Psychology, General
88
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
54
Human Services, General
40
Elementary Education and Teaching
40
Criminology
35
Accounting
35
Natural Resources/Conservation, General
25
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General
22
Health and Medical Administrative Services, Other
19

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology, Other · Master's40 (0% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's37 (5% international)
  • Organizational Leadership · Master's23 (0% international)
  • Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General · Master's21 (0% international)
  • Public Administration · Master's19 (0% international)
  • Accounting · Master's14 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Upper Iowa University

The graduation data from Upper Iowa University for 2023 highlights several notable trends across different fields of study. Psychology, General, stands out with an impressive 82 graduates at the bachelor's level, which signifies a strong interest in mental health and human behavior. This aligns with the growing awareness and importance of mental health services in society today.

In the health-related fields, Registered Nursing and other health programs show a total of 55 graduates, reflecting the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in light of recent global health crises. The absence of international students in these programs may suggest either a lack of accessibility or a strategic focus on local talent development.

Business Administration appears to have a substantial presence at the master's level, with 54 graduates, including eight international students. The emphasis on business education could be tied to the current economic climate, where skills in management and entrepreneurship are highly sought after.

Interestingly, education-related programs, such as Elementary Education and Teaching, have fewer graduates, with only 24 receiving bachelor's degrees. This could indicate a potential shortage of educators in the future, especially as many regions face challenges in maintaining quality education systems.

Overall, these statistics not only reflect the university's strengths in psychology and business but also reveal potential gaps in critical areas like education. The trends suggest an urgent need for targeted recruitment and support for students in education and health-related fields, ensuring the university can meet the evolving demands of the job market.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Businesshas 357 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$55,862-$73,662
Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management.$55,862-$73,662
Organizational Leadership.$55,862-$73,662
Accounting.$61,889-$68,401
Finance, General.$60,423-$85,272
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General.$54,421-$68,472
Management Information Systems, General.-
Marketing, Other.$55,170
Educationhas 151 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Curriculum and Instruction.-
Education/Teaching of the Gifted and Talented.$44,221-$57,358
Education/Teaching of Individuals with Multiple Disabilities.$44,221-$57,358
Education/Teaching of Individuals in Early Childhood Special Education Programs.$44,221-$57,358
Education/Teaching of Individuals in Elementary Special Education Programs.$44,221-$57,358
Education/Teaching of Individuals in Secondary Special Education Programs.$44,221-$57,358
Elementary Education and Teaching.$43,076
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$43,076
Art Teacher Education.$42,093
Business and Innovation/Entrepreneurship Teacher Education.$42,093
English/Language Arts Teacher Education.$42,093
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.$42,093
Reading Teacher Education.$42,093
Science Teacher Education/General Science Teacher Education.$42,093
Social Science Teacher Education.$42,093
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas, Other.$42,093
Psychology has 145 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$40,942
Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology, Other.-
Health professionshas 91 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.$52,001
Health Information/Medical Records Administration/Administrator.$52,001
Long Term Care Administration/Management.$52,001
Health and Medical Administrative Services, Other.$52,001
Public Health, General.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$80,032
Public administrationhas 77 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Human Services, General.$40,936
Public Administration.$73,411-$76,537
Social sciencehas 56 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Social Sciences, General.$49,042
Criminology.$49,911
Sociology, General.-
Liberal arts has 50 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$47,314
Natural resources has 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Natural Resources/Conservation, General.$35,558
Parks, recreation, leisure has 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.$50,546
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$50,546
Sports Studies.$50,546
Visual and Performing artshas 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Commercial and Advertising Art.$37,215
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Homeland security has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.-
Homeland Security.$69,594
Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management.$69,594
Biologyhas 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Communication has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Communication, General.-
Sports Communication.-
Agricultural has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations.-
Engineering technologieshas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Industrial Technology/Technician.-

Students

3,941 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 48:52 · Freshman retention 67.7%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,054)

White
1,219 · 39.9%
Unknown
954 · 31.2%
Black
364 · 11.9%
Hispanic
312 · 10.2%
Two or more races
80 · 2.6%
International
79 · 2.6%
Asian
31 · 1.0%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
0.3%
18–19
5.4%
20–21
10.0%
22–24
18.8%
25 and over
65.5%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.5%
22–24
11.0%
25–29
16.7%
30–34
16.7%
35 and over
55.0%

Data insights

Student Demographics at Upper Iowa University in 2023

The data from Upper Iowa University for the year 2023 reveals interesting insights into the composition of its student body. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there is a notable gender imbalance, with 66.2% of students identifying as male and 33.8% as female. This contrasts sharply with the figures for undergraduate upperclassmen, where 39.8% are male and 60.2% are female, indicating a trend where more females are continuing their education at this level.

The demographics of transfer students show a similar pattern, with 37% male students and 63% female students. This reflects a broader national trend in higher education where female enrollment has been steadily increasing in recent years. The graduate student body also shows a predominance of female students at 67.8%, with only 32.2% identifying as male.

Furthermore, the breakdown of these groups by race indicates that the majority of students in all categories identify as white, although the exact numbers for the other racial and ethnic categories are not fully disclosed. This suggests that while diversity exists, there is still significant room for growth in the representation of non-white students in higher education institutions.

Overall, the data highlights both the challenges and successes of Upper Iowa University in attracting a diverse student population while also reflecting broader trends in gender enrollment in higher education. As universities continue to evolve, understanding these dynamics will be crucial for fostering an inclusive academic environment.

Demographic Insights of Upper Iowa University's Student Age Composition

The age composition of students at Upper Iowa University reveals intriguing demographic trends that reflect broader societal patterns in higher education. A significant portion of the student body, particularly in the age groups of 25-29 and 30-34, showcases the increasing presence of non-traditional students. In the 25-29 age bracket, there are 196 males and 349 females, while the 30-34 range comprises 156 males and 306 females, indicating a strong female representation in these age categories. This trend aligns with national statistics showing that women are increasingly pursuing higher education and advanced degrees, often balancing education with career and family responsibilities.

The data also shows a notable concentration of younger students, particularly those aged 18-19, where there are 182 males and 108 females. This suggests that Upper Iowa University remains an attractive option for recent high school graduates. Interestingly, the absence of graduate males in the 18-19 and 20-21 age groups could indicate that students are tending to pursue undergraduate studies before transitioning to graduate programs at a later age.

Moreover, the presence of students aged 40 and above, particularly with 140 males and 324 females in the 40-49 age group, highlights the university's role in providing opportunities for lifelong learning. This demographic shift underscores the importance of flexible educational pathways that cater to varying life stages and personal commitments.

In summary, Upper Iowa University's age data reflects a diverse and evolving student population that accommodates both traditional college-age students and non-traditional learners, contributing to a rich educational environment that fosters inclusivity and diversity.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates2.6%

79 in 2025 · 2.7% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 2.7%2017: 1.7%2018: 12.2%2019: 2.4%2020: 4.7%2021: 3.0%2022: 3.6%2023: 4.2%2024: 3.5%2025: 2.6%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students1.7%

15 in 2025 · 2.5% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.5%2017: 2.7%2018: 3.4%2019: 2.8%2020: 3.2%2021: 2.4%2022: 2.7%2023: 2.1%2024: 1.3%2025: 1.7%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Upper Iowa University

The data on international student enrollment at Upper Iowa University reveals notable fluctuations over the years. Initially, in 2008, the university had a mere six international undergraduate students, accounting for only 0.12% of the total undergraduate population. However, there was a significant increase in the following years, with enrollment peaking in 2018 when international students represented 12.20% of the undergraduate body, totaling 521 students.

This upward trend in undergraduate enrollment contrasts sharply with the graduate student statistics, which remained relatively low. The peak for international graduate students occurred in 2010, when they constituted 7.83% of the graduate population. Since then, the percentages for graduate students have consistently stayed below 4%, indicating a potential area for growth in attracting international graduate students.

The decline in overall enrollment numbers from 2020 onwards may reflect broader trends in higher education, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted global travel and education systems. The university saw a drop to 2.99% of international students in 2021, with a slight recovery in 2023, where the undergraduate percentage reached 4.22%. This suggests a gradual rebound in international student interest, albeit still below the highs of 2018.

Overall, these patterns underscore the importance of strategic recruitment efforts to enhance diversity and internationalization at Upper Iowa University, particularly in the graduate programs, which have not seen similar growth. As the global education landscape evolves, it will be crucial for the university to adapt and attract a more substantial international student population in the future.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$29,596

Undergraduate tuition
$19,475
Room and board
$10,121
Graduate tuition
$20,185
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose -31% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 26%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$40.9M

Tuition and fees
$26.2M64.1%
Gifts and private grants
$5.5M13.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$4.3M10.6%
Investment return
$2.1M5.3%
Government grants and contracts
$460K1.1%
Other
$2.3M5.6%

Expenses$41.4M

Institutional support
$14.2M34.3%
Student services
$10.0M24.3%
Instruction
$9.5M23.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$5.6M13.4%
Academic support
$2.0M4.8%
Scholarships
$50K0.1%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$55,503peers $68,006
Professor
$68,492peers $78,041
Associate professor
$59,778peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$52,824peers $63,827
Lecturer
$44,729peers $59,832

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Great Lakes Valley Conference

Great Lakes Valley Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Football106-
Soccer4925
Baseball56-
Wrestling3316
Basketball2316
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)-35
Softball-21
Golf108
Volleyball-16
Other Sports--
2024
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Football111-
Soccer4228
Baseball55-
Wrestling374
Basketball2315
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)-38
Softball-22
Golf108
Volleyball-17
Other Sports--
2023
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Football111-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6050
Soccer4322
Baseball54-
Basketball2215
Wrestling33-
Bowling1713
Volleyball-21
Softball-18
Golf98
Tennis-8
Other Sports--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Upper Iowa University:

  1. University of Wisconsin-La Crosse - Ranked 249 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong programs in health sciences and education.

  2. University of Iowa - With a ranking of 93, the University of Iowa is a major public research university, recognized for its contributions to arts and humanities, as well as its medical programs.

  3. Iowa State University - Ranked 115, Iowa State is renowned for its engineering, veterinary medicine, and agriculture programs, making it a hub for research and innovation.

  4. University of Wisconsin-Madison - This prestigious institution, ranked 35, offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is recognized for its research output and vibrant campus life.

  5. Grinnell College - A highly regarded liberal arts college ranked 11, Grinnell is known for its rigorous academics and commitment to social justice.

  6. Macalester College - With a ranking of 27, Macalester is celebrated for its liberal arts education and strong emphasis on internationalism and diversity.

These institutions represent a mix of comprehensive universities and liberal arts colleges, each offering unique educational experiences and opportunities for students.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
30
Drug referrals
11
Rape
6
Drug arrests
6
Liquor arrests
6
Stalking
4

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Upper Iowa University

The crime statistics from Upper Iowa University over the past decade reveal a notable trend in campus safety. The data indicates fluctuations in the overall crime rates, with a peak in 2013 at 7.92 incidents per 1,000 students, followed by a decline to a low of 2.31 in 2022. This downward trend in criminal activity, particularly in the past few years, is encouraging and suggests improvements in campus safety measures or student behavior.

The significant drop in incidents related to alcohol arrests and violations, particularly from 2013 to 2022, highlights a potential shift in student lifestyle choices. The university's efforts to promote responsible behavior and provide education on substance use may be yielding positive results. The data also shows a concerning spike in 2019, where the crime rate surged back to 9.02 per 1,000 students, prompting the need for continued vigilance and intervention strategies.

Moreover, the recent statistics for 2023 show a slight increase to 5.99, indicating that while the overall trend is positive, the university must remain proactive in addressing safety concerns. The presence of gun-related incidents, even if minimal, raises alarms and necessitates ongoing dialogue about safety policies on campus.

In conclusion, while the overall trend suggests a safer campus environment at Upper Iowa University, it is essential to maintain vigilance and continue proactive measures to ensure the well-being of all students. For further insights into crime rate calculations, please refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

Notable Alumni

All 24

Notable alumni of Upper Iowa University include John Mott (YMCA leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate), Kim Reynolds (43rd Governor of Iowa, first woman in the role) and William F. Albright (Archaeologist and biblical scholar).

See all 24 notable alumni of Upper Iowa University →

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.