Wartburg College
Acceptance rate
75.8%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$26,250
$38,000 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,462
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
62.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 67.2%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Wartburg College, located in Waverly, Iowa, is a private liberal arts institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and service to others. Founded in 1852, the college emphasizes the development of the whole person through an integrated curriculum that combines rigorous academics with experiential learning opportunities. The college's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "The Best of Both Worlds," which reflects its dedication to providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for both professional success and personal fulfillment. Wartburg College is affiliated with the Lutheran Church and promotes values such as faith, community, and social responsibility, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all students.
The campus is home to state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced laboratories, modern classrooms, and a variety of recreational spaces that enhance student life. Wartburg College offers over 50 majors and programs, with strong emphasis on fields such as education, business, and the sciences. The faculty is highly qualified, with many members holding advanced degrees and actively engaging in research and community service. Additionally, the college's vibrant campus culture is marked by numerous student organizations and athletic programs, allowing students to explore their interests outside the classroom. With a strong focus on community engagement and leadership development, Wartburg College equips its graduates with the skills and experiences needed to excel in their careers and contribute positively to society.
Trends in Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates
The data from Wartburg College reveals significant trends in tuition fees, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. Tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has shown a steady increase, rising from $34,250 in 2014 to $51,040 in 2024. This represents a staggering increase of approximately 49% over a decade, which raises concerns about accessibility for prospective students and their families in a climate where student debt continues to be a pressing issue nationwide.
In terms of enrollment, the number of undergraduate students has fluctuated, peaking at 1,747 in 2013 and dropping to 1,416 by 2023. This decline of about 19% may indicate challenges in attracting new students, possibly due to rising tuition costs or competition from other institutions. Interestingly, the number of graduate students has remained minimal, suggesting that Wartburg College may need to evaluate its graduate programs to enhance enrollment in that area.
Moreover, graduation rates have demonstrated variability, with the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates hovering around 64.4% in 2023, which is respectable but still leaves room for improvement. The retention rate, which measures the percentage of students who continue their studies at the same institution, saw a decrease from 82.4% in 2021 to 70.5% in 2023. This decline raises concerns about student satisfaction and the overall educational experience at Wartburg College.
Together, these data points highlight critical areas that Wartburg College must address to enhance its appeal and effectiveness as an educational institution. Increasing tuition without a corresponding rise in enrollment and retention could threaten the college's financial stability and reputation in the competitive landscape of higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Des Moines, about 100 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Des Moines International Airport (DSM), about 100 mi
- Academic calendar
- 4-1-4
- Religious affiliation
- Evangelical Lutheran Church
- President
- Dr. Rebecca Ehretsman (President)
- Phone
- 3193528200
- Address
- 100 Wartburg Blvd., Waverly, IA 50677-0903
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 71.6%, women 78.1%.
Data insights
Analysis of Wartburg College Admission Trends
The admission data for Wartburg College over the years presents a fascinating insight into the evolving landscape of college admissions. Starting from 2009, the male acceptance rate has shown fluctuations, peaking at around 96.8% in 2023, while the female acceptance rate also reached a high of approximately 98% in the same year. This dramatic increase in acceptance rates suggests a significant shift in the college's admission policies or a decrease in the number of applicants.
The enrollment numbers have varied over the years, with a notable decrease from 514 in 2009 to 351 in 2023. This decline in enrollment could indicate a broader trend affecting many institutions, influenced by demographic shifts and changing perceptions about college value, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has prompted many students to reconsider their higher education paths.
Moreover, the number of denied applicants peaked in 2017, reflecting a competitive admission environment, while later years showed a sharp decline in denials. This could be attributed to the college's strategic efforts to attract more students through flexible admissions policies.
In terms of the total number of deferred applications, which reached its highest in 2021, this highlights the complexities of modern admissions, where students are often given the option to postpone their entry, reflecting a changing approach to higher education as students navigate uncertain futures.
Overall, Wartburg College's data reveals a dynamic and adaptive institution responding to the challenges and opportunities of recent years, emphasizing the importance of understanding both acceptance rates and enrollment figures in the context of broader societal changes.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 3% submitted SAT, 24% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Standardized Test Scores at Wartburg College
The data from Wartburg College over the years reveals notable trends in standardized test scores and submission rates. Observing the SAT and ACT scores, there appears to be a gradual decline in the range of scores accepted for admission. For instance, the 25th percentile SAT reading scores have seen a decrease from 510 in 2007 to 500 in 2023, indicating a potential shift in the applicant pool or changes in admissions criteria.
Moreover, the number of students submitting SAT scores appears to fluctuate significantly, with the percentage of applicants submitting scores ranging from 5% to 16% across the years. This trend suggests a decreasing emphasis on standardized tests in the admissions process, which aligns with a broader trend in higher education where many institutions are adopting test-optional policies.
The ACT scores reflect a similar pattern, with the 25th percentile scores experiencing variations, which may indicate an evolving approach to evaluating student preparedness. The range for the ACT composite score has shifted as well, reflecting the changing dynamics in student performance over time.
These trends may be influenced by various factors, including changes in educational standards, the rising popularity of alternative assessment methods, and shifts in societal attitudes toward standardized testing. As we look forward, it will be interesting to see how Wartburg College adapts its admissions strategies in response to these trends and the overall landscape of higher education.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
3,203 applicants in 2025, 75.8% admitted
2,429 admitted 774 not admitted Yield 16.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Organizational Leadership · Master's8 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Wartburg College
The graduation data from Wartburg College for 2023 reveals notable trends across various disciplines. The Business and Education fields dominate the bachelor's degree graduates, with Business leading at 39 graduates, followed by Elementary Education with 23. This suggests a strong emphasis on practical and career-oriented programs, reflecting current job market demands where business acumen and educational skills are highly sought after.
Interestingly, the presence of international students is modest, particularly in the Business category, which only has four international bachelor's degree graduates. This indicates a potential area for growth, as attracting more international students could enhance cultural diversity and global perspectives within these programs.
In the graduate programs, Organizational Leadership stands out with 15 master's degree graduates. This reflects an increasing recognition of the importance of leadership skills in various sectors. The absence of doctorate graduates in most fields points to a focus on undergraduate and master's level education, which aligns with trends in higher education where many institutions prioritize producing well-rounded professionals over academic researchers.
Moreover, the data highlights a promising interest in fields like Psychology and Computer Science, with both having 21 and 10 bachelor's degree graduates, respectively. This aligns with national trends indicating a growing demand for professionals in mental health and technology sectors.
Overall, Wartburg College's graduation data underscores the importance of adapting to market needs while also presenting opportunities to further engage international students and expand graduate program offerings.
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
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $55,064 | ||
| Organizational Leadership. | - | ||
| Accounting. | $66,020 | ||
| Actuarial Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Neuroscience. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $43,914 | ||
| Music Teacher Education. | $44,811 | ||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $44,811 | ||
| History Teacher Education. | $44,811 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | ||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| Econometrics and Quantitative Economics. | - | ||
| International Relations and Affairs. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | $42,452 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $42,553 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Health, General. | - | ||
| Music Therapy/Therapist. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | $45,308 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial and Advertising Art. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - | ||
| Music Performance, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||
| English Language and Literature/Letters, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| German Language and Literature. | - | ||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
Students
1,483 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 55:45 · Freshman retention 75.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,010
- First-year undergraduates 402
- Graduate students 21
- Transfers and others 50
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,462)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Wartburg College in 2023
The student demographics at Wartburg College for the year 2023 showcase a diverse and evolving student body. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there is a notable balance in gender distribution, with 51.3% male and 48.7% female students. This slight male majority reflects a trend seen in many institutions, where incoming classes often have a higher percentage of male students.
In contrast, the undergraduate upperclassmen exhibit a female majority, with 51.6% of the population being female compared to 48.4% male. This shift may indicate a growing appeal of higher education among women, aligning with national trends of increasing female enrollment in colleges and universities.
The demographic representation of racial and ethnic groups among these students is equally important. The white student population comprises the largest portion within the freshmen, but there is also a presence of students from diverse backgrounds, including Asian, Latinx, and international students, reflecting the college's commitment to inclusivity.
Interestingly, the transfer student category shows a significant male predominance at 73.1%, suggesting that male students are more likely to transfer to Wartburg College compared to their female counterparts.
Lastly, the graduate student body is predominantly female at 71.4%, which is consistent with growing trends in graduate education where women are often outpacing men in enrollment.
Overall, Wartburg College's demographics reveal a complex picture of gender and racial diversity, mirroring broader trends in higher education across the United States. The college's efforts to attract a varied student population are evident, and as these trends continue, it will be essential for the institution to address the unique needs and challenges of all student groups.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Wartburg College (2023)
Wartburg College's student age demographics reveal interesting trends regarding the distribution of undergraduate and graduate students across different age groups. The largest cohort, aged 18-19, includes 296 male undergraduates and 303 female undergraduates, comprising nearly 50% of the total student body. This indicates a strong influx of traditional college-age students, which is consistent with national trends where universities often attract a significant number of first-time college attendees immediately after high school.
The 20-21 age group follows closely, showcasing 281 male undergraduates and 322 female undergraduates, further emphasizing the prevalence of younger students. When analyzing the age groups of 22-24, a noticeable decline occurs in male undergraduates (114), while the number of female undergraduates remains fairly stable at 81. This suggests that as students progress in their academic journey, fewer males continue directly into their undergraduate studies, potentially pointing to shifting social dynamics or differing educational commitments.
Interestingly, the representation of older students, particularly those aged 25 and above, is minimal. For instance, only four students aged 25-29 are enrolled, indicating that this demographic may not be a primary focus for Wartburg College. This aligns with broader trends in higher education, where non-traditional students often face barriers such as financial constraints or family obligations.
Overall, the data underscores Wartburg College's appeal to younger students while highlighting the challenges in attracting older demographics. As institutions continue to evolve in response to changing societal needs, understanding these age distributions will be crucial in shaping future enrollment strategies and support services.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
78 in 2025 · 8.1% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2021
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Wartburg College
The data on international student enrollment at Wartburg College reveals intriguing trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate international students has shown a general increase, peaking in 2014 with 161 students, which constituted 9.39% of the total undergraduate population. This indicates a growing attraction for international students to the college during that period.
However, post-2014, there has been a noticeable decline in both the total number of undergraduates and the percentage of international students. By 2023, the percentage of international students dipped to 6.50%, with 92 students enrolled. This decline may reflect broader trends in U.S. higher education, where various factors such as travel restrictions, visa challenges, and changing perceptions of studying in the U.S. due to political climates could impact enrollment.
Moreover, while data for graduate students is sparse, the available information suggests a significant jump in international graduate students from 1 in 2021 to 25 in 2022, and 28 in 2023. This 28% representation in the graduate program is a promising sign, indicating that despite challenges, Wartburg College remains an attractive option for graduate international students.
As colleges worldwide compete for a diverse student body, Wartburg College's trends underscore the importance of maintaining robust support systems for international students. This includes addressing concerns related to visa policies, providing scholarships, and fostering an inclusive campus environment. The ongoing changes in enrollment patterns highlight the necessity for institutions to adapt to the evolving landscape of international education.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$38,000
- Undergraduate tuition
- $26,250
- Room and board
- $11,750
- Graduate tuition
- $12,000
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose -29% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 30%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$71.4M
Expenses$57.5M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · American Rivers Conference
American Rivers Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 120 | 68 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 119 | 68 |
| Football | 184 | - |
| Cross Country | 65 | 33 |
| Wrestling | 65 | 33 |
| Soccer | 44 | 30 |
| Baseball | 62 | - |
| Basketball | 27 | 20 |
| Other Sports | - | 38 |
| Tennis | 16 | 16 |
| Golf | 15 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Volleyball | - | 23 |
| Bowling | 8 | 8 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 101 | 71 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 97 | 69 |
| Football | 153 | - |
| Wrestling | 72 | 16 |
| Soccer | 49 | 27 |
| Cross Country | 53 | 23 |
| Baseball | 53 | - |
| Basketball | 23 | 22 |
| Softball | - | 31 |
| Volleyball | - | 30 |
| Tennis | 15 | 13 |
| Golf | 13 | 9 |
| Bowling | 7 | 10 |
| Other Sports | - | 15 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 97 | 71 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 90 | 70 |
| Football | 137 | - |
| Soccer | 45 | 29 |
| Cross Country | 48 | 25 |
| Wrestling | 55 | - |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Basketball | 22 | 18 |
| Tennis | 19 | 11 |
| Other Sports | - | 27 |
| Volleyball | - | 25 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Golf | 13 | 9 |
| Bowling | 8 | 7 |
| Lacrosse | - | 13 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Grinnell CollegeGrinnell · 68.8 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
Iowa State UniversityAmes · 76.7 mi
U.S. News #116
-
University of IowaIowa City · 88.2 mi
U.S. News #100
-
Drake UniversityDes Moines · 98.2 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Saint Mary's University of MinnesotaWinona · 99.2 mi
U.S. News #299
-
Carleton CollegeNorthfield · 124.5 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
St. Olaf CollegeNorthfield · 124.8 mi
Liberal Arts #49
-
Augustana CollegeRock Island · 130.3 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Gustavus Adolphus CollegeSaint Peter · 133.1 mi
Liberal Arts #62
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Wartburg College:
-
Grinnell College - Ranked 11th among liberal arts colleges, Grinnell College is known for its rigorous academics and strong commitment to social justice.
-
Iowa State University - With a ranking of 115, Iowa State University is a comprehensive university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly recognized for its engineering and agriculture disciplines.
-
University of Iowa - Ranked 93rd, the University of Iowa is esteemed for its research programs and is home to a vibrant arts scene, including the renowned Iowa Writers' Workshop.
-
Drake University - Holding the 178th rank, Drake University is a private institution that emphasizes liberal arts education, professional programs, and community engagement.
-
Carleton College - This liberal arts college is ranked 9th and is celebrated for its academic excellence and strong student-faculty relationships.
-
St. Olaf College - With a rank of 51, St. Olaf College is known for its strong music program and commitment to a holistic education.
-
Macalester College - Ranked 27th, Macalester College is recognized for its diverse student body and its emphasis on global citizenship and social responsibility.
-
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities - This comprehensive university is ranked 53rd and offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly noted for its research output.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are known for their commitment to academic excellence and community involvement.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Wartburg College
The crime statistics at Wartburg College reveal a significant downward trend in the average number of recorded offenses per 1000 students over the past decade. In 2013, the rate was notably high at 43.85, but by 2022, it had plummeted to just 5.19. This dramatic decline can be viewed positively, suggesting that the college has implemented effective measures to enhance campus safety and security.
Among the various offenses, arrests related to drug use and alcohol consumption have shown notable fluctuations. The number of drug-related arrests appears to have decreased over the years, which aligns with national trends emphasizing drug prevention and education on college campuses. Additionally, the absence of serious offenses such as robbery, assault, and domestic violence in recent years indicates that Wartburg College is fostering a safe environment for its students.
However, the resurgence of some offenses, such as the slight increase in the overall crime rate in 2023, should not be overlooked. It is critical for the college administration to analyze these patterns closely and continue reinforcing their safety protocols to maintain the positive trajectory observed in previous years.
The data highlights the importance of ongoing vigilance and proactive measures in maintaining student safety. The college community, including students, faculty, and staff, plays a vital role in upholding a secure environment. Engaging in awareness programs and encouraging open dialogue about safety concerns can further support these efforts.
For more details on calculating crime rates, please visit: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Wartburg College include Tom Latham (Former Republican U.S. Representative for Iowa), Coleen Rowley (Former FBI agent and 9/11-era whistleblower) and Tom Zirbel (Former professional road cyclist).
-
Tom Latham 1948–
Former Republican U.S. Representative for Iowa
-
Coleen Rowley 1954–
Former FBI agent and 9/11-era whistleblower
-
Tom Zirbel 1978–
Former professional road cyclist
-
Dan Ige 1991–
UFC featherweight mixed martial artist
-
Paul Schell 1937–2014
50th Mayor of Seattle
-
Kevin McCarthy 1971–
Former Iowa House Minority Leader
-
Lazaro Samuel Nyalandu 1970–
Tanzanian politician and former Cabinet Minister
-
Don Denkinger 1936–2023
Major League Baseball umpire in the American League
-
Ro Foege 1938–
Iowa state representative, Democrat
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.