Waldorf University
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
- 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
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
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)
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
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Occupational Safety and Health Technology/Technician. | $69,728 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $42,540 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $61,457-$63,038 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $42,108 | |||
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - |
Students
2,225 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 63:37 · Freshman retention 44.1%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,439
- First-year undergraduates 154
- Graduate students 391
- Transfers and others 241
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,834)
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.
6 in 2025 · 2.0% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
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
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
Expenses$24.7M
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.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Great Plains Athletic Conference
Great Plains Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 102 | - |
| Wrestling | 28 | 29 |
| Soccer | 30 | 17 |
| Basketball | 30 | 16 |
| Ice Hockey | 46 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 28 | 12 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 24 |
| Bowling | 15 | 8 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Golf | 11 | 7 |
| Rifle | - | - |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 114 | - |
| Wrestling | 35 | 32 |
| Soccer | 29 | 20 |
| Ice Hockey | 33 | - |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 16 | 16 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 16 | 16 |
| Basketball | 17 | 13 |
| Bowling | 14 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Golf | 12 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Cross Country | 4 | 8 |
| Rifle | - | - |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 116 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 37 | 26 |
| Soccer | 25 | 26 |
| Wrestling | 15 | 32 |
| Basketball | 20 | 13 |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Ice Hockey | 28 | - |
| Bowling | 12 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Golf | 9 | 8 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Gustavus Adolphus CollegeSaint Peter · 75.1 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Iowa State UniversityAmes · 85.5 mi
U.S. News #116
-
St. Olaf CollegeNorthfield · 85.9 mi
Liberal Arts #49
-
Carleton CollegeNorthfield · 86.3 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
Saint Mary's University of MinnesotaWinona · 111.3 mi
U.S. News #299
-
Grinnell CollegeGrinnell · 114.7 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
Drake UniversityDes Moines · 114.8 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Macalester CollegeSaint Paul · 118.1 mi
Liberal Arts #28
-
University of St Thomas (MN)Saint Paul · 118.3 mi
U.S. News #156
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges and universities near Waldorf University:
-
Gustavus Adolphus College - Ranked 67th, this liberal arts college is known for its strong emphasis on liberal education and a commitment to service.
-
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.
-
St. Olaf College - Ranked 51st, St. Olaf is a private liberal arts college recognized for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life.
-
Carleton College - One of the top liberal arts colleges in the country, ranked 9th, Carleton is known for its challenging curriculum and beautiful campus.
-
Grinnell College - With a rank of 11, Grinnell is celebrated for its strong emphasis on social justice and academic rigor.
-
Drake University - This university, ranked 178th, offers a blend of liberal arts and professional programs, with a strong focus on student engagement.
-
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.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities 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 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.