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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Waldorf University

Forest City, Iowa · www.waldorf.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

77.0%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$25,978

$35,898 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

1,834

Student-faculty ratio 22:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

14.7%

4-year; 6-year rate 25.9%

Peer median 44.6%

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

About

Waldorf University, located in Forest City, Iowa, is a private liberal arts institution known for its commitment to providing a comprehensive educational experience grounded in the values of integrity, service, and excellence. Established in 1903, the university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on personalized learning and student engagement. Waldorf's unique approach to education combines traditional academic rigor with innovative teaching methods, fostering an environment where students can thrive both academically and personally. The university's motto, "Education for a Life of Service," reflects its dedication to preparing students to contribute positively to society.

The campus is characterized by its vibrant community atmosphere, where students are encouraged to participate in various extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that promote leadership and teamwork. Waldorf University boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, a well-equipped library, and dedicated spaces for arts and athletics. The university also emphasizes the importance of physical well-being, offering a variety of sports programs and recreational activities. Moreover, Waldorf has a strong focus on career development, providing students with resources and support to enhance their employability. With a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, Waldorf University continues to cultivate a rich cultural experience for students, preparing them to become responsible global citizens.

Analysis of Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Retention at Waldorf University

Waldorf University has witnessed a significant increase in tuition fees over the years, particularly for undergraduate programs. The in-state tuition for undergraduate students surged from $20,276 in 2014 to $25,220 in 2024, representing a 24.2% increase. This trend is consistent with the broader national trend of rising college costs, which can place a considerable financial burden on students and their families. The increase in room fees, which rose from $6,856 to $9,448 during the same period, further exacerbates the financial challenges faced by students.

In terms of academic performance, the graduation rates for undergraduate students have experienced notable fluctuations. The on-time graduation rate saw a dramatic rise from 22.9% in 2019 to 45.6% in 2023. This improvement may indicate enhanced support systems for students, possibly including academic advising or tutoring, which could contribute to better retention and completion rates. However, previous years showed lower performance, particularly in 2019, which may have been influenced by external factors such as economic conditions or institutional changes.

Retention rates also reflect the university's efforts to maintain student engagement. The retention rate for undergraduate students increased significantly from 25.8% in 2021 to 69.5% in 2023. This is a promising sign that the university is successfully addressing student needs and improving their overall satisfaction with the academic experience.

Overall, while Waldorf University faces challenges with rising tuition, the improvements in graduation and retention rates suggest that the institution is making strides to enhance the educational experience for its students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Rural, remote
Nearest major city
Des Moines, about 120 mi
Nearest international airport
Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), about 110 mi
Forest City, Iowa
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Evangelical Lutheran Church
President
Robert A. Alsop (President)
Phone
6415852450
City
Forest City, Iowa
Address
106 S Sixth St, Forest City, IA 50436-1713

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
75.6%
Women
79.3%

In 2020: men 66.4%, women 65.7%.

Data insights

Analysis of Waldorf University's Admission Trends

The admission trends at Waldorf University over the years reveal some intriguing patterns regarding gender-based acceptance rates and overall enrollment figures. Notably, the acceptance rates for male applicants have fluctuated significantly, starting from around 65% in 2009 and gradually decreasing to approximately 73% by 2023. In contrast, female applicants experienced a more stable acceptance rate, beginning at about 67% in 2009 and peaking at approximately 81% in 2019, before slightly declining in subsequent years.
The enrollment numbers also reflect a dynamic shift. For instance, in 2019, the university saw a substantial increase in new enrollments, reaching 253, which coincided with one of the highest male acceptance rates at around 73%. This indicates that as the admissions process becomes more competitive, the university is still able to attract a considerable number of students, possibly due to its expanding programs and reputation.
The number of denied applications has been consistently high, peaking at 986 in 2011. This suggests that while the university is growing, it is also becoming a more selective institution, which is a trend seen across many higher education institutions nationwide. The deferred admissions trend, showing a significant number of students choosing to delay enrollment, may point to a growing awareness among applicants regarding the importance of finding the right fit for their educational goals.
Overall, Waldorf University appears to be navigating the complexities of student admissions effectively, maintaining a balance between attracting diverse applicants while managing increasing selectivity. As higher education continues to evolve, Waldorf's strategies may serve as an insightful case study for other institutions facing similar challenges.

Test Scores

SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Test Submissions at Waldorf University

The data from Waldorf University over the years reveals significant trends in standardized test submissions and performance. Notably, the percentage of students submitting ACT scores has fluctuated, peaking at 100% in 2010, which indicates a strong reliance on the ACT during that admission cycle. Conversely, the representation of SAT submissions has been relatively low, with only 30% of students submitting in 2011 and dropping to as low as 15% in 2013. This shift may reflect broader national trends, as many colleges and universities have adopted test-optional policies in recent years, leading students to forego standardized tests in favor of alternative assessments of their abilities.

Moreover, the SAT and ACT scores show a gradual improvement in performance metrics over the years, particularly the SAT reading and math sections, which have shown increasing starting and ending scores. For instance, the SAT reading scores improved from a starting point of 367 to 470 by 2018. This trend not only highlights the increasing academic preparedness of incoming students but also suggests that Waldorf University is attracting a more competitive applicant pool.

As universities increasingly evaluate candidates holistically, the trends observed at Waldorf University could mirror national changes in higher education admissions. The emphasis on more comprehensive assessments rather than solely standardized tests may lead to a more diverse and capable student body, fostering an enriching learning environment. This evolution in admissions practices is a crucial reflection of the changing landscape in higher education, where adaptability and inclusivity are becoming paramount.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 8 in 10

1,238 applicants in 2025, 77.0% admitted

953 admitted 285 not admitted Yield 19.8%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate1030 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's6214 international (0.6%)
Master's2000 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business/Commerce, General
117
Occupational Safety and Health Technology/Technician
110
Psychology, General
64
Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management
63
Critical Infrastructure Protection
47
Fire Services Administration
40
Organizational Behavior Studies
35
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
27
Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General
25
Elementary Education and Teaching
20

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Organizational Leadership · Master's106 (0% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's48 (0% international)
  • Adult and Continuing Education and Teaching · Master's36 (0% international)
  • Health/Health Care Administration/Management · Master's9 (0% international)
  • Educational/Instructional Technology · Master's1 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Statistics at Waldorf University

The graduation statistics from Waldorf University in 2023 highlight several noteworthy trends across different academic programs. Notably, the Business and Organizational Leadership sectors have produced a significant number of graduates, with 114 students graduating with bachelor's degrees in Business/Commerce, General, and 139 in Organizational Leadership at the master's level. This trend is indicative of the growing demand for business-related skills in today's economy, especially as businesses increasingly seek professionals equipped with leadership and management capabilities.

In the realm of health and safety, the Occupational Safety and Health Technology program also showed a robust output, with 23 associate degree graduates. This reflects the ongoing emphasis on workplace safety and the increasing importance of health management across various industries, especially in light of recent global health challenges.

Interestingly, the data also reveals a strong focus on Criminal Justice and Emergency Management programs, with several graduates across different degree levels. This aligns with current societal concerns regarding safety and security, as well as the need for well-trained professionals in crisis management.

Moreover, the presence of international students earning degrees, though limited, in programs such as Business and Psychology suggests that Waldorf University is attracting a diverse student body, which is essential for enriching the educational environment.

Overall, these statistics not only showcase the university's commitment to providing relevant education but also point to broader trends in workforce demands, emphasizing the necessity for adaptive skills in an evolving 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 331 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business/Commerce, General.$57,164
Business Administration and Management, General.$83,310
Organizational Leadership.$83,310
Business/Corporate Communications, General.-
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General.$68,676
Organizational Behavior Studies.$68,676
Homeland security has 218 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$51,761
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.$51,761
Fire Services Administration.$78,411-$104,691
Homeland Security.$76,984
Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management.$76,984
Critical Infrastructure Protection.$76,984
Engineering technologieshas 135 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Occupational Safety and Health Technology/Technician.$69,728
Psychology has 80 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$42,540
Educationhas 60 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Educational/Instructional Technology.-
Adult and Continuing Education and Teaching.$42,161-$57,872
Elementary Education and Teaching.$42,161-$57,872
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$42,161-$57,872
Human science has 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General.-
Health professionshas 24 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.$61,457-$63,038
Communication has 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.$42,108
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
History has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
History, General.-
Biologyhas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Liberal arts has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
English has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Creative Writing.-
Visual and Performing artshas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-

Students

2,225 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 63:37 · Freshman retention 44.1%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,834)

White
1,051 · 57.3%
Black
297 · 16.2%
Unknown
280 · 15.3%
Two or more races
67 · 3.7%
Hispanic
66 · 3.6%
Asian
29 · 1.6%
International
6 · 0.3%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Waldorf University in 2023

Waldorf University's student demographics for the year 2023 reveal a diverse and predominantly male undergraduate population. Among the first-year undergraduate students, the total number is 153, with males representing approximately 59.5% and females 40.5%. This trend continues with the continuing undergraduate students, where 1,707 individuals are enrolled, and the male representation rises to 63.3%, while females account for 36.7%.

The transfer students also reflect a similar pattern, with 371 students, where males make up 64.4% and females 35.6%. The graduate program, while having fewer students at 468, shows a slightly more balanced gender ratio, with males at 55.6% and females at 44.4%.

The ethnic breakdown of these groups further complicates the narrative of diversity. While specific data on ethnic representation is not fully disclosed, we see that the majority of students in the undergraduate categories are likely to be white, as indicated by the numbers in the subs category.

This data highlights ongoing trends in higher education where male students outnumber female students, particularly in undergraduate programs. This gender disparity is often a topic of discussion in academic circles, as educational institutions strive for gender equity. As Waldorf University continues to evolve, focusing on strategies to enhance female enrollment and support diversity across all demographics will be crucial for fostering an inclusive educational environment. This aligns with broader societal movements advocating for gender equality in higher education and beyond.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Waldorf University

Waldorf University's student age demographics indicate a diverse range of ages within the student body. The data reveals a notable concentration of students in the 30-34 age bracket, with a total of 427 students, which accounts for approximately 38.2% of the total enrollment. This suggests that the university attracts a significant number of non-traditional students, possibly reflecting a growing trend in higher education where adult learners seek to enhance their qualifications or change careers.

Another interesting observation is the relatively small number of students under 18, totaling 169, which is around 15.5%. This may highlight Waldorf's appeal to older students who are looking for a more mature learning environment. The distribution of male and female students also shows an interesting trend; for instance, in the 25-29 age group, there are 178 male and 116 female undergraduate students, indicating a higher male presence in this category.

On the other hand, the 40-49 age group has a more balanced gender distribution, with 191 male and 104 female students. Furthermore, as the age increases, the total number of students decreases, particularly in the 50-64 and over 65 categories, where the numbers drop significantly. This trend reflects a common pattern across many universities, where younger populations dominate student enrollment.

Overall, the data from Waldorf University presents a unique snapshot of its student demographics, highlighting trends that may influence future recruitment strategies and program offerings aimed at catering to a diverse student population. The presence of older students suggests a shift in educational priorities, with lifelong learning becoming increasingly prevalent in today’s society.

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.

Undergraduates0.3%

6 in 2025 · 2.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.0%2017: 1.5%2018: 1.0%2019: 1.2%2020: 3.2%2021: 2.8%2022: 2.4%2023: 1.4%2024: 0.7%2025: 0.3%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.0%2018: 0.0%2019: 0.2%2020: 0.4%2021: 2.8%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Waldorf University

The enrollment data for international students at Waldorf University reveals significant fluctuations over nearly two decades. From 2004 to 2011, the percentage of international undergraduate students gradually increased, peaking at 7.15% in 2011. However, this upward trend was short-lived, as the subsequent years saw a notable decline, particularly between 2014 and 2023, where the proportion of international undergraduates dropped to as low as 1.39% in 2023.

This decline could be attributed to a variety of factors, including evolving immigration policies, increased competition from other institutions, and changing global circumstances such as the COVID-19 pandemic which heavily impacted international travel and student mobility. The undergraduate population also saw fluctuations, starting from a high of 2636 students in 2019, which subsequently decreased to 2295 in 2023.

On the graduate side, although the absolute numbers of international students are lower, a growth was noted in 2020 with a notable 0.39% representation. However, the lack of data in subsequent years limits a comprehensive analysis of trends at the graduate level.

Overall, the data depicts a challenging environment for attracting international students, and it is crucial for Waldorf University to reassess its global outreach strategies to enhance its appeal in an increasingly competitive educational landscape.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$35,898

Undergraduate tuition
$25,978
Room and board
$9,920
Graduate tuition
$5,340
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 24% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 42%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$26.5M

Tuition and fees
$23.1M87.2%
Gifts and private grants
$1.7M6.4%
Government grants and contracts
$844K3.2%
Investment return
$703K2.7%
Other
$137K0.5%

Expenses$24.7M

Institutional support
$8.7M35.0%
Instruction
$6.4M26.0%
Student services
$5.2M21.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$1.8M7.2%
Academic support
$933K3.8%
Other
$1.7M7.0%

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
$52,171peers $68,006
Professor
$62,329peers $78,041
Associate professor
$53,510peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$50,888peers $63,827
Instructor
$43,390peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Great Plains Athletic Conference

Great Plains Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Football102-
Wrestling2829
Soccer3017
Basketball3016
Ice Hockey46-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)2812
Baseball38-
Volleyball-24
Bowling158
Softball-22
Golf117
Rifle--
Other Sports--
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Football114-
Wrestling3532
Soccer2920
Ice Hockey33-
Baseball32-
Track and Field (Indoor)1616
Track and Field (Outdoor)1616
Basketball1713
Bowling1410
Softball-22
Golf128
Volleyball-18
Cross Country48
Rifle--
Other Sports--
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Football116-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)3726
Soccer2526
Wrestling1532
Basketball2013
Baseball32-
Ice Hockey28-
Bowling129
Softball-20
Volleyball-19
Golf98
Other Sports--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable colleges and universities near Waldorf University:

  1. Gustavus Adolphus College - Ranked 67th, this liberal arts college is known for its strong emphasis on liberal education and a commitment to service.

  2. Iowa State University - With a rank of 115, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly strong in engineering and agriculture.

  3. St. Olaf College - Ranked 51st, St. Olaf is a private liberal arts college recognized for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life.

  4. Carleton College - One of the top liberal arts colleges in the country, ranked 9th, Carleton is known for its challenging curriculum and beautiful campus.

  5. Grinnell College - With a rank of 11, Grinnell is celebrated for its strong emphasis on social justice and academic rigor.

  6. Drake University - This university, ranked 178th, offers a blend of liberal arts and professional programs, with a strong focus on student engagement.

  7. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities - Ranked 53rd, it is the flagship campus of the University of Minnesota system and offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

These institutions provide diverse educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.

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
193
Drug referrals
27
Burglary
26
Aggravated assault
12
Stalking
11
Rape
8

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Waldorf University

The crime rates at Waldorf University have shown significant fluctuations over the years, reflecting various societal influences and campus safety measures. In 2013, the average crime rate per 1000 students was notably high at 29.11, which has since seen a downward trend until 2016, where the rate dropped dramatically to 6.90. This decline suggests an improvement in campus safety and possibly the effectiveness of preventive measures employed by the university.

However, the years following 2016 saw a resurgence in crime rates, peaking again in 2020 with a rate of 14.52. This increase can be attributed to the broader societal impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have affected mental health and social behavior among students. The fluctuations in crime rates in recent years highlight the necessity for ongoing vigilance and adaptation of safety protocols.

In 2022, the crime rate rose to 16.19, indicating that the university community continues to face challenges regarding safety. It is essential for the university administration to analyze specific types of crimes, such as drug and alcohol-related offenses, which have shown consistent occurrences. The focus on these areas can lead to targeted interventions and educational programs aimed at reducing these incidents.

Overall, the data emphasizes the importance of continuous assessment and proactive measures to ensure student safety on campus. As societal conditions evolve, so too must the strategies employed to mitigate crime. For those interested in understanding how these rates are calculated, further information can be found at the following link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

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.