Online Colleges in Iowa
Compare all of the best distance education colleges located in Iowa to pursue an online bachelors degree, associates, or online masters program degree. Including cost of tuition, degrees they offer, enrollment rates, faculty, famous alumni, and more.
Recommended Schools
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AIB College of Business
Des Moines, Iowa
- 348 Total Students
- 42% Acceptance Rate
- 30 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 405 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
A private baccalaureate institute, AIB College opened up in 1921 as ‘American Institute of Business’ by founders Everett O. Fenton and Ray Hansen. Starting in Des Moines, Iowa, in its 95 year period, the college shifted its location from Sixth Avenue to the business district on the Tenth Street and Grand Avenue. It was in 2000 that the institute changed its name to AIB College. It was in the start of 2015 that the college was decided to be shut down and permanently closed its operations by June of year 2016.
The college’s property was handed over to the State of Iowa, Board of Regents as a gift. The facilities are presently being used by University of Iowa as its Iowa Center of Higher Education (ICHE). While operating as AIB College, being a strictly business education institute, it also provided recreational and sports facilities to its students. The college’s teams called ‘Eagles’ participated in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). Its women soccer team also won the MCC Championship. The campus colors were Red, White and Blue with the mascot being E.O. the Eagle.
The college offered business education at the Baccalaureate and Associate level. Bachelors of Science and Business Administration programs were offered with various major choices. A variety of options were also available for the Associate level programs in the field of business, technology and others. Among its prominent facilities is the Keith Fenton Administration Building, which continues to carry the AIB History Walk, open for a visit for the former students and alumni.
AIB School Facts
- NicknameEagles
- MascotE.O. the Eagle
- Motto"Ethical, productive, and engaged citizens."
- ColorsBlue, Red, White
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationNot applicable
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Allen College
Waterloo, Iowa
- 611 Total Students
- 8 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 3 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
An institute offering nursing education, Allen College was originally established as Allen Memorial Hospital and the Allen Memorial Hospital School of Nursing in 1925. It faced financial hardships and was eventually shut down as the great depression hit. However, in 1942 it started its operations again and since then has been involved in providing healthcare and nursing education based in Waterloo, Iowa. It operates a small, private degree granting college.
Being an open, diverse and inclusive, the college prepares its students for a lifelong service towards their communities. To deliver the best results and practical experience, the college shares resources and faculty with its partner institutes. These include University of Northern Iowa, Wartburg College, Loras College, University of Iowa, Aultman College and others. It offers general education instruction with some of these partners. It has also formed the Healthcare Careers Consortium EHC2 along with hospitals, health care facilities, high school faculty and others with an aim to improving high school curriculum and courses.
The college’s Academic programs are divided under the two schools; the School of Heath Sciences and the School of Nursing. It offers an Associate program, Bachelor’s, Master’s as well as Doctoral Programs.
Allen College School Facts
- Years Estd.1989
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationNot applicable
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Briar Cliff University
Sioux City, Iowa
- 1,149 Total Students
- 13 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- Yes Online Programs
It was in 1930 that the present day liberal arts university was established as a college. The idea had begun as a women’s college for better opportunities for women, with the Most Reverend Edmond Heelan, Bishop of the Sioux City Diocese and Mother Mary Dominica Wieneke, Major Superior of the Sisters of Saint Francis. With support of $ 25,000 from the community, the college was set up and first classes commenced with 25 women. However, today it is a coeducational institute.
Briar Cliff is situated on the hill of Briar Cliff in Sioux City, Iowa, after which the university has been named. The college maintains its Christian roots in Franciscan Roman Catholic traditions and so promises to its student’s intellectual engagement, free thinking and extending their service to others.
At Briar Cliff University, life at campus is all about learning, from classrooms to outside classrooms and while living together. Students engage themselves with each other, with the faculty and with the outside world through many extracurricular activities. There are ambassador programs and academic peer mentors and other interest groups, where students connect with each other and also help each other. One group, ‘Emerging Leaders’, is where students shed light on community issues and similarly there are over 30 groups including political groups as well as musical groups. There is campus ministry which offers prayer, worship and community building. Through these not only reflect on their present and grow thankful but also enhance their spirituality and resume the connection. There are sports at the campus with 18 varsity teams participating at the NAIA. The campus colors are Blue and Gold.
The university offers undergraduate program with over 35 majors and more than 25 minors. It offers seven Master’s Degree programs and two Doctoral programs, along with having online education. Its prestigious facilities include Bishop Mueller Library.
Briar Cliff School Facts
- Years Estd.1930
- NicknameChargers
- MottoMater Gratiae Caritas
- Motto Eng.Mother of Grace, Love
- ColorsBlue and Gold
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationRoman Catholic
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Buena Vista University
Storm Lake, Iowa
- 2,322 Total Students
- 68% Acceptance Rate
- 24% Enrollment Rate
- 9 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 1,372 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
A Private, coeducation, four year higher education institute, BVU began its journey more than 125 years ago, when it opened its doors in 1891 as Buena Vista College. The college was founded by Presbyterian Church (USA). It received its first accreditation in 1952 and with another accreditation of its graduate program in 1995, the college eventually progressed as a university; hence adopting its new name.
The university brings better integrated academics and experiential learning by allowing students to be involved in a multidisciplinary experience, having a global perspective. It aims to prepare for the career, but also for a meaningful life as a responsible member of society. The university based in Storm Lake, Iowa, also operates through 15 other locations throughout the state.
Buena Vista University has an interesting mix of activities that are all aimed at getting students to be involved; with themselves, with each other, with the faculty, with the university and with the outside community. There is campus ministry and a chapel where students enjoy spiritual uplifting. Then there are student organisations that range from dance and improve groups to racial associations and adventure groups/clubs. There are more than 60 student organisations. Students also put in their time in community service, volunteering for activities. Some unique events held at the university include its Buenafication Day, a community service day; William W. Siebens American Heritage Lecture, which brings recognized leaders and guest speakers on campus and there is also university tradition, the Victory Arch, which plays a huge role when celebrating two of the universities annual events. There are athletic teams on campus participating at the NCAA Division III with the colors Navy Blue and Gold and the mascot ‘Beavers’.
BVU offers programs and majors in more than 30 fields of study. It offers both bachelors and masters degree program, with a choice of 43 majors and 15 pre professional programs. These are organised into 5 schools and colleges and its most prestigious department is the Harold Walter Siebens School of Business.
BVU School Facts
- Years Estd.1891
- MascotBeavers
- ColorsNavy Blue and Gold
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationPresbyterian Church (USA)
Famous BVU Alumni
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Nate Bjorkgren
Professional Sports
Current assistant coach of the Phoenix Suns
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Shelly M. Shelton
Politics & Law
Republican member of the Nevada Assembly
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Carlos Martinez
Professional Sports
Former kicker for the Philadelphia Soul of the Arena Football League
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Skip Carnine
Politics & Law
Republican member of the Arkansas House of Representatives from Rogers; also retired educator
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Randy Rahe
Professional Sports
Current head basketball coach at Weber State University
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Central College
Pella, Iowa
- 1,274 Total Students
- 64% Acceptance Rate
- 16% Enrollment Rate
- 12 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 3,071 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
Central is a private liberal arts college that was founded by the early settlers in the region. The immigrants had come to the region having escaped Netherlands and after settling had been determined to have educational opportunities, hence set up a Baptist institute in 1853. The institute held its first classes the next year, and since then has not stopped in contributing towards the lives of its students.
It was in 1994 that the institute renamed itself as Central College and has been situated in Pella, Iowa. With its ecumenical Christian tradition, the college has been busy in developing students at all levels, mind, spirit and body, believing that healthy and sound individuals are needed to lead their societies and confront their issues.
The student life at Central is filled with interesting experiences and unique traditions. The traditions hold importance but also provide fun for students; there is Lemming Race which is homecoming but is celebrated through costumes, Let’s Play Gennis, where students mix golf and tennis, bats of the former and ball of the latter, Be Our Guest, where students are invited over by their faculty and teachers; there are more such traditions. Moreover, campus involvement comes through over 50 student clubs and organizations, honorary organizations or music opportunities through ensembles, bands, choirs, chorus and other such options. Community service through volunteering activities takes place with partners or through participation in Welcome Week’s Red Rock Rocks Service project and Dance Marathon. Students are enjoined in faith through campus ministries which organizes national or international mission trips, or small study groups. For those students wanting to learn leadership skills are also given chance to be part of fraternities, sororities, Leadership and Entrepreneurship Program or others. Athletic participation takes place at NCAA Division III and the campus colors are Red and white.
Academic programs at the college are undergraduate programs with 73 academic programs to choose from which include majors, minors and pre-professional advising. Its prestigious buildings are Maytag Student Center, Roe Center, Vermeer Science Center, Weller Center for Business and International Studies, Geisler Library and Kuyper Athletic Complex.
Central School Facts
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationReformed Church in America
Famous Central Alumni
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Bill Quayle
Professional Sports
Athletics director for Emporia State University, 1979 to 1999
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Bernadette Allen
Politics & Law
Former United States Ambassador to Niger
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George Alfred Baitsell,
Science & Medicine
United States biologist
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John Hospers
Politics & Law
First U.S. presidential candidate for the Libertarian Party
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Vern Den Herder
Professional Sports
Defensive end, won two consecutive Super Bowls; is also a member of the College Football Hall of Fame
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Recommended Schools
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Clarke University
Dubuque, Iowa
- 1,075 Total Students
- 72% Acceptance Rate
- 20% Enrollment Rate
- 9 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 1,257 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
Clarke is a present day private liberal arts higher education institute that was founded in 1843 as St. Mary’s Female Academy. It was founded by the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (BVMs) and was named after Mary Frances Clarke, the Irish immigrant who founded the BVMs. By 1881 the institute relocated to its present and permanent location and was chartered by the state in 1910.
It was in the year 2010 that the institute which had become Clarke College by then, progressed as Clarke University. It is based in Dubuque, Iowa, and has evolved its education as the times have evolved, changing as per the needs of the students to be intellectually engaging and productive as well as the need for leadership to battle the global challenges.
Clarke is the place where students find a perfect blend of religion, social activities, community engagement as well as cultural immersion. The campus encourages every student for spiritual as well as religious growth; there is campus ministry which not only promotes Catholic teachings but aims at overall theological development through lectures, series and workshops. The students are also reminded of their duties towards their communities through community engagement activities. Students volunteer with the organisations working in the field, such as Mary’s Inn Maternity Home, Mercy Medical Center and many others. For students to socialise with each other and pursue interests, there are 26 student led clubs and organisations present on campus. There are also opportunities to learn about arts from poets, musicians, lecturers, and other artists from around the world. As for the recreational opportunities, the university has its athletic teams ‘Crusaders’ that take part in NAIA. The mascot is Cutlass T. Crusader “Cuttie” and the campus colors are Navy Blue and Gold.
At Clarke, the academic programs consist of an Associate degree program, six Bachelor’s degree programs with 31 major choices, four Master’s degree programs and two Doctoral programs. Its prominent facilities are Robert & Ruth Kehl Center, Wahlert Atrium, Terence Donaghoe Hall, Mary Benedict Hall, Mary Frances Hall, Catherine Byrne Hall and a few more.
Clarke School Facts
- Years Estd.1843
- NicknameCrusaders
- MascotCutlass T. Crusader "Cuttie"
- ColorsNavy blue and Gold
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationRoman Catholic
Famous Clarke Alumni
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Barbara Larkin
Politics & Law
United States Assistant Secretary of State for Legislative Affairs
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Peggy Sullivan
Education & Advocacy
Library consultant specializing in executive searches
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Cornell College
Mount Vernon, Iowa
- 1,037 Total Students
- 70% Acceptance Rate
- 20% Enrollment Rate
- 11 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 1,936 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
Cornell is a private institute offering liberal arts education and which traces its origins to the year 1853 when it was founded by George Bryant Bowman. Bowman was a Methodist minister who was approached by the citizens of Mount Vernon who wanted a proper and continuously running educational institute for their youth. It is based in Mount Vernon, Iowa.
In 1857 it was renamed as Cornell College after William Wesley Cornell. It is affiliated with the United Methodist Church, however does not discriminate on religious beliefs of its students. It was also the first college in the west of the Mississippi to have admitted women on the same rights as men, removing gender discrimination.
The campus life at Cornell is also such that impacts the lives of its students bringing positive change. There are more than 50 student clubs and organisation including religious, special interest, sports, politics, arts which serve as platforms for developing skills and intellectual exchange outside classrooms. There is extensive Greek life on campus, with 15 fraternities and sororities encouraging students to excel in academics and display leadership skills. Students also enjoy taking part in performing arts activities through Performing Arts & Activities Council (PAAC). This provides them with a platform for creative expression. Equally important is the spiritual life which begins with the Chaplain working as advisor, supporter and mentor in all spiritual matters. Students also engage in prayer and worship both on and off campus; there is meditation, Bible study groups, and more. The university also celebrations its unique traditions such as Toilet Paper Toss, Culture Show, Relay For Life, The Orange Carpet and few more. There is also athletic affiliation at NCAA Division III, Midwest Conference. The official university colors are Purple and White.
The academic programs consist of undergraduate programs with 40 majors and pre professional programs. It employs ‘One Course at a time curriculum’ where its students go by a single course for three and a half week until the next. Its prominent buildings are King Chapel, Pfeiffer Hall, Tarr Hall, Dows Hall, Russell Hall, Kimmel Theatre and few more.
Cornell School Facts
- Years Estd.1853
- NicknameRams
- MottoDeus et Humanitas
- Motto Eng.God and Humanity
- ColorsPurple & White
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationUnited Methodist
Famous Cornell Alumni
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Leslie M. Shaw
Politics & Law
Governor of Iowa and U.S. Secretary of Treasury
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Lee Alvin DuBridge
Science & Medicine
President of the California Institute of Technology and also science advisor to U.S. President Richard Nixon
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Don E. Fehrenbacher
Education & Advocacy
Winner of Pulitzer Prize for History
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Jack Norris
Education & Advocacy
President and co-founder of Vegan Outreach
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David Hilmers
Science & Medicine
NASA astronaut and also medical doctor
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James Daly
Entertainment & Arts
Actor, Emmy Award winner
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Leo Beranek
Business & Industry
Co-founder of Bolt, Beranek and Newman
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Divine Word College
Epworth, Iowa
- 81 Total Students
- 100% Acceptance Rate
- 78% Enrollment Rate
- 5 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 23 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
Divine Word is Roman Catholic undergraduate institute that although was founded later but traces its history to 1875 when Society of the Divine Word was founded. The society got actively involved in missionary works throughout the world and by 1931 came to the region to set up a high school seminary. This seminary was replaced with the present day college as an undergraduate seminary in 1964.
Divine Word College sits in Epworth, Iowa and is the only Roman Catholic undergraduate seminary operating. Its traditions are deeply rooted in its mission to be producing qualified and responsible individual for church and missionaries by offering liberal arts education with emphasis on moral, spiritual and leadership development.
At Divine Word, students are prepared in a well rounded manner, taking academic, faith, extracurricular as well recreation activities with a more balanced approach. First and foremost, the students are made part of a student formation group whereby students learn and develop on their spirituality under the guidance of an advisor. There are different programs offered under these such as Religious Formation Program, Ministries Program, Spiritual Direction and Liturgical Formation whereby students are encouraged to be involved in various activities relating to each program or formation. It also holds the FAN club as students are matched with families in the region and the two interact through activities, and learn from each other. This helps in improving social connections and intercultural relations. Additionally, community service comes in the form of working on college buildings and grounds as well as on any other activity outside campus. With all the hard work, students are not deprived of fun and so find plenty of opportunities off campus such as museums, symphonies, theatres, enjoying games and recreation activities.
As for the academic programs at Divine Word, these are three Associate Degree programs and three Bachelors degree programs in philosophy, theology, religious studies and intercultural studies. Its notable facility is the Matthew Jacoby library.
Divine Word School Facts
- Years Estd.1964 (1964)
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationRoman Catholic
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Dordt College
Sioux Center, Iowa
- 1,458 Total Students
- 70% Acceptance Rate
- 39% Enrollment Rate
- 15 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 1,342 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
Dordt is a private liberal arts college that was founded in year 1953 as a junior college named as Midwest Christian Junior College. The institute officially held instructions, two years later in 1955 with only 35 students. As it gained prominence among the region, the enrolment grew and the junior college progressed becoming a four year college. It was around the same time that the college took on its present name, after historic Reformed synod held in Dordrecht, Netherlands.
The college is based in Sioux Center, Iowa, and is an institute based on Christian values, providing its students with modern day education of the highest standard while also encouraging them to look beyond the horizons and work for a broader community.
At Dordt, students find many opportunities to explore and be involved in. Students find more than 25 student held clubs and organizations presenting the chance to grow in their interests with other fellow members in a collaborative space. For further student activities, there is a Student Activities Committee which brings unique and fun events all round the year providing a social platform. These events include Air Band, Laser Tag, Talent Extravaganza (TX), Christmas Party, and more. Arts are also an important part of campus life as students take part in musical or theatrical performances. There are also activities on campus that are encouraged for personal development such as community service through its volunteer programs like COP (Community Outreach Program), PLIA (Putting Love Into Action), and AMOR (A Mission OutReach). There is also active campus ministry which brings prayer and worship programs or activities in small student groups. Furthermore, Chapel sessions are also held. There are also athletic teams at the campus taking part at NAIA Division II. The campus colors are Black, Gold and White.
Dordt College offers the following academic programs: Associate and Bachelors degree programs with 30 majors and 12 pre-professional programs. It also offers Master of Education program. Its notable facilities are the John and Louise Hulst Library and B. J. Haan Auditorium.
Dordt School Facts
- Years Estd.1955
- NicknameDefenders
- MottoSoli Deo Gloria
- Motto Eng."Glory to God alone"
- ColorsBlack, White and Gold
- LocationIowa
- Athletics13 Varsity TeamsNAIA Division IIGPAC
- Religious AffiliationChristian Reformed Church
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Drake University
Des Moines, Iowa
- 4,991 Total Students
- 67% Acceptance Rate
- 18% Enrollment Rate
- 13 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 6,514 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
Drake is a private coeducational institute that was founded by two passionate individuals, George T. Carpenter and Francis Marion Drake; former was a teacher and preacher and the latter served during the Civil War. It began in 1881 and held classes during its time in a single building but expanded into a permanent campus by 1883. Not only this, the institute also expanded greatly into other academic fields.
The university was originally affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) but that ended. Today, based in Des Moines, Iowa, it provides an environment where its students learn, feel nourished and grow intellectually and personally. It prepares them for profession but also for a progressing society.
At Drake University students are surrounded with plenty of opportunities and activities to make their ride enjoyable. As a form of learning units, there are more than 160 student led clubs and organisations present on campus which contribute majorly to extracurricular activities in the campus. There are academic, political, religious, cultural and most importantly the governance organisations. These provide the opportunity to firsthand experience of being and serving as a leader on various student issues and representations. Another most important aspect is the service learning where students are encouraged to serve the community by working with local non profit organisations, such as Big Brothers Big Sisters to Habitat for Humanity and others. Taking time off from studies, students are also allowed to enjoy and party as events are organised all year round which include musical concerts, movie nights, comedy shows and plays. There are also some traditional events at the university such as Street Painting, Hubbelling, Kissing Rock and few more. The university has its athletic teams which compete at NCAA Division I; the mascot is ‘Spike’ and the colors are Blue and White.
Academic programs at Drake consist of undergraduate programs with over 70 majors, minors, and concentrations and more than 20 masters, doctoral, and professional degrees. Its notable facilities are Ross Hall, Crawford Hall, Carpenter Hall, Stalnaker Hall, Cowles Library Harmon Fine Arts Center and more.
Drake School Facts
- Years Estd.1881
- NicknameBulldogs
- MascotSpike
- MottoVeritas
- Motto Eng.Truth
- ColorsBlue and White
- LocationIowa
- AthleticsNCAA Division IMVC, Pioneer Football League, MAAC
- Religious AffiliationNot applicable
Famous Drake Alumni
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Terry E. Branstad
Politics & Law
United States ambassador to China; also former Governor of Iowa, the longest serving
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Darrell R. Lindsey
Politics & Law
Medal of Honor recipient
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Joseph Chaikin
Entertainment & Arts
Theater director, actor and author; also Founder of the Open Theater
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Michael Emerson
Entertainment & Arts
Actor, two-time Emmy Award-winner
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Ira Levin
Entertainment & Arts
Author; works are Rosemary's Baby, The Boys from Brazil, The Stepford Wives and Deathtrap
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George A. Cohon
Business & Industry
Founder of McDonald's Restaurants of Canada Limited and also McDonald's in Russia
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Dwight D. Opperman
Business & Industry
Former CEO of West Publishing Company, after whom Drake's law library is honored
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Jon Bowermaster
Science & Medicine
Oceans expert, journalist, filmmaker and an adventurer
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Dave Doeren
Professional Sports
Head football coach at North Carolina State University
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Eric Saubert
Professional Sports
Professional football player for the Atlanta Falcons
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Timothy Ley
Science & Medicine
Hematologist, oncologist and cancer biologist
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Emmaus Bible College
Dubuque, Iowa
- 247 Total Students
- 35% Acceptance Rate
- 39% Enrollment Rate
- 9 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 432 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
Emmaus Bible College is a religious private college located at Dubuque, Iowa. It was first established as Emmaus Bible School in 1941 by John Smart, Ed Harlow, and Ernest Tatham in Toronto, Ontario. A year later, EBC starting offering its courses which targeted military personnel. In 1947, the campus was transferred to Chicago, Illinois, and worked there until 1984, when it relocated to its current location in Iowa, with its contemporary name of Emmaus Bible College. The college has an affiliation with the Open Brethren and it introduces double majors in biblical and professional studies.
As part of the biblical higher education community, Emmaus gives praise to God by educating and qualifying students to spread the Christ’s doctrine via their faithful and helpful contributions to their surroundings. The theme of this college is brought from the Verse “Then beginning with Moses and with all the prophets, He explained to them the things concerning Himself in all the Scriptures” (Luke 24:27 NASB).
Eagle is considered the official mascot of Emmaus college. Its campus was formerly used by Aquinas Institute of Theology which is a Roman Catholic institute. Emmaus has a sister institute in Australia with the same in addition to its sister institute ECS which offers distant learning courses in more than 100 different languages. Almost half of Emmaus College students are of Brethren backgrounds, while the other half are from different evangelical backgrounds. The college offers different forms of scholarships and financial aid which around 98% of the students in the college either partially or fully.
Emmaus is accredited on the national level by ABHE and regionally by the Higher Learning Commission of NCA. In addition, it is a member of many associations and assemblies. The college offers eleven academic programs majoring in Bible, Theology, Computer Science, Mathematics and other professional studies. There are four other newly added programs as double majors between Bible/Theology and professional studies.
Emmaus School Facts
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationBrethren Church
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Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary
Ankeny, Iowa
- 269 Total Students
- 64% Acceptance Rate
- 78% Enrollment Rate
- 11 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 137 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary (FBBC & TS) is a conservative, private Christian foundation that offers both undergraduate and graduate studies. William H. Jordan was impressed by Dwight L. Moody talk at the World’ Fair held in Chicago in 1893 about the significance of raising Christian students and trainees for the priesthood, so he decided to establish such institute. Although FBBC & TS was initially established as a non-communal bible institution (Omaha Bible Institute) in 1921 to educate people in scripture, divinity, and priesthood, it joined the American Council of Christian Churches in 1945. Then in 1953, the word Baptist was added to the name of that institution. Afterwards, FBBC & TS was announced to be a bible college for the first time to be able to grant both undergraduate and graduate degrees in 1960 and 1986 respectively. The institute was first established in Omaha, Nebraska then moved to its current place in Ankeny, Iowa since 1967.
FBBCTS, as one of the leading Baptist academies, targets supplying undergraduate and graduate students with the highest quality of biblical education to provide churches with highly qualified Christian leaders.
FBBC & TS is unique in comprising: a college that supplies undergraduate students with general, scriptural and professional education and seminary that spreads bible, priesthood and divinity studies to the graduate students. Its campus was established with its buildings surrounding a circle. During establishment, the campus was located at a superb at the ultimate western area of Ankeny, however, residential creep continued to surround the whole campus in only 15 years. The campus consists of 23 buildings; the most of famous are Jordan Hall (Administration Building), Gray Hall (Classroom Building, Computer Labs), Patten Hall (Library), Benson Hall (Dining Area, Seminary Classrooms), and Nettleton Hall (Student Center, Bookstore, Gym, Classrooms, and Chapel).
FBBC & TS offers 13 major degrees along with 10 minors that range from 1 to 4 years at the undergraduate level and 5 Master of Arts degrees in religion and theology studies.
FBBC & TS School Facts
- Years Estd.1921
- MottoWith the Word to the World
- ColorsMaroon and Gold
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationBaptist
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Grand View University
Des Moines, Iowa
- 1,988 Total Students
- 98% Acceptance Rate
- 35% Enrollment Rate
- 13 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 784 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
Grand View University is a private liberal arts university founded in 1896 by the Danish Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as a theological seminary. In 1975, nursing was added with the baccalaureate programs changing the name of the college from Grand View Junior College to Grand View College. In 2008, its name was changed again to Grand View University when graduate programs were added.
The university campus is located in Des Moines, Iowa. The campus is home to several distinctive buildings including residential halls as Hull apartments and suites, Knudsen hall, Nielsen hall, Langrock and L-apartments. Prominent academic buildings include Cowles Center, Elings Science Hall, Charles S. Johnson Wellness Center, Krumm Business Center and Rasmussen Center besides Humphrey Center which is the oldest building in the campus built at the same time of the establishment of the college. The building got its current name after complete rennovations of the building in 1996. The university is also known with several characteristic traditions which have continued on campus for decades. These traditions includes hide and steal competition called “Bud the Bird” which is a modified version of “capture the flag”. Another tradition is the rock which was placed by students in front of the entrance of old main. Students paint this rock whenever they need to express themselves including celebrations, sorrow or demands. It was also used for marriage proposal. The official colors of the university are red and white while its mascot is Viktor the Viking. The university is member of the NAIA and its teams compete in the Heart of America Athletic Conference.
The university is divided into 9 faculties offering more than 40 undergraduate programs and 4 graduate programs. Students applying for enrollment may benefit from one of five different scholarship program in addition to financial aid plans.
Grand View School Facts
- Years Estd.1896
- NicknameVikings
- MascotViktor the Viking
- ColorsRed and White
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationEvangelical Lutheran Church
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Graceland University-Lamoni
Lamoni, Iowa
- 2,300 Total Students
- 48% Acceptance Rate
- 28% Enrollment Rate
- 16 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 2,159 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
Graceland University-Lamoni (GU) was established in 1895 as Grace College in Lamoni, Iowa by the RLDS Church which is currently known as Community Christ in the United States. The RLDS Church members donated the campus land to inaugurate GU. Marietta Walker, honored by naming Walker Hall after her, donated the first 20 acres in the campus land. The classes opened its doors to the students in 1895 in a building in downtown during the establishment of the administrative building. Col. George Barrett, who mopped the land for the university, was the person who chose the university’s name due to the graceful and magnificent downhill location above which the campus had been built. The first building of the campus, currently known as the Higdon Administration Building since 1997, was opened on the 1st of January, 1897. In 1910, Graceland inaugurated its academic program in nursing in joint with the Independence Sanitarium and Hospital, in Missouri State. Graceland was accredited in 1917 as the 1st fully accredited junior college located in Iowa. Over the years, GU expanded its academic programs to be a four-year college in 1960, and then it achieved its independency in 1969 when it founded its bachelor degree programs. GU campus was divided into three different locations in Iowa before being reconstructed in its current location on W. Truman Road since 1999. Finally, Graceland was accredited as a university instead of a college on June, 2000.
GU-Lamoni has been rated as 1st tier college for three consecutive years starting 2011 according to the U.S. News & World Report. It has been ranked also as the 91st and the 88th in the best private universities in the U.S. and was selected also as the top university in the Midwest region according to the Princeton review.
GU-Lamoni campus consists of 1 college, 3 schools and 1 seminary. The most famous among them are C.H. Sandage School of Business, Edmund J. Gleazer School of Education and Community of Christ Seminary. Graceland offers more than 30 majors at the undergraduate and graduate levels in addition to a number of professional programs.
GU-Lamoni School Facts
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationOther
Famous GU-Lamoni Alumni
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Leonard L. Boswell
Politics & Law
An American politician and member of the Democratic Party. Former U.S representative for the 3rd Congressional District in Iowa State from 1997 till 2013.
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Teresa Carpenter
Entertainment & Arts
Teresa Carpenter
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C. Robert Mesle
Social Advocacy & Service
An American theologian and author of the theology book “Process Theology: A Basic Introduction”. A current philosophy and religion professor at Graceland University.
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Frederick Madison Smith
Education & Advocacy
An American religious author and leader, commonly known as Fred M. Former Prophet-President of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints from 1915 till his death.
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David Harold Yost
Entertainment & Arts
A famous American actor and film producer. Famous of his role as Billy Cranston in Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers and Power Rangers Zeo.
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Milton Ruben Young
Politics & Law
An American politician and republican. A former senator representative of North Dakota from 1945 till 1981.
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Iowa State University
Ames, Iowa
- 35,714 Total Students
- 87% Acceptance Rate
- 37% Enrollment Rate
- 19 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 19,164 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
Iowa State University (ISU) is a land grant research-based public university located in Ames City in Iowa State. It was established in 1858 as Iowa agricultural College and Model farm by Iowa General Assembly. Its original site was selected in State County when 648 acres farm land was purchased for more than $5,000. In 1861, the first building in Iowa campus was built and named the Farm House. The first class joined Iowa in 1869 and graduated in 1872. Iowa inaugurated the first state’s veterinary medicine in the United States in 1879. Afterwards, Iowa expanded its programs to involve agriculture, economics, engineering and extension so its name was consequently changed in 1898 to be Iowa State College of Agricultural and Mechanic Arts. It provided its faculty and students with high standards research facilities that led them to end up with many patents such as the Maytag blue cheese, the first binary computer, the round hay baler, etc. In 1959 Iowa changed its name again to be officially Iowa State University of Science and Technology, commonly known as Iowa State University after it had opened its college of liberal arts and sciences. ISU campus consists of more than 160 building occupying around 490 acres land full of huge green areas.
ISU is ranked as “R1: Doctoral Universities – Highest Research Activity according to Carnegie Classification of Institution of Higher Education and the 111th national university according to the U.S. news and World Report. Its campus location is selected as “medallion site” by the American Society of Landscape Architects in 1999 due to following the landscape design. It includes the Campanile, a famous tower located in the central campus as a memorial to the Iowa State’s first dean of women, Margaret MacDonald Stanton.
The university consists of 8 colleges and 2 schools among them is the Greenlee School of Journalism and Mass Communication in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. It offers around 100 undergraduate degrees, 112 master degrees and 83 doctoral degrees in addition to a unique professional program in Veterinary Medicine.
ISU School Facts
- Years Estd.1858
- NicknameCyclones
- MascotCy
- MottoScience with practice
- ColorsCardinal & Gold
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationNot applicable
Famous ISU Alumni
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Clayton Conrad Anderson
Science & Medicine
An American physicist and a retired astronaut. Selected by NASA in 1998 as an astronaut candidate.
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Clarence Duncan Chamberlin
Science & Medicine
An American pilot and an aviation pioneer. The second pilot of a fixed-wing aircraft to cross the Atlantic Ocean from New York to the European Mainland carrying the first transatlantic passenger.
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Nawal El Moutawakel
Professional Sports
A former Moroccan hurdler and a Moroccan minister of sports in 2007. First Moroccan and first female from a Muslim majority country to be awarded the Olympic Gold Medal in 1984.
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Joni Kay Ernst
Politics & Law
An American politician and a Republican member. Current junior U.S Senator from Iowa since November 2014 elections.
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George Washington Carver
Science & Medicine
A former American botanist and inventor. Famous of his promotion of alternative crops to cotton such as sweet potatoes and peanuts.
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Fredrick Kristian Hoiberg
Professional Sports
An American former basketball player and a current coach, commonly known as Fred Hoiberg. Former basketball coach for Iowa State University team and current head coach for the Chicago Bulls of the National Basketball Association (NBA).
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Dennis A. Muilenburg
Business & Industry
An American aerospace engineer and businessman. Current chief executive officer and president of The Boeing Company since July 1st, 2015.
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Dan Shechtman
Science & Medicine
An Israeli professor of material science at the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology. Winner of Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2011 for his discovery of quasicrystals.
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Iowa Wesleyan University
Mount Pleasant, Iowa
- 457 Total Students
- 50% Acceptance Rate
- 5% Enrollment Rate
- 14 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 4,981 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
Iowa Wesleyan University (IWU) is a four-year educational institute providing liberal arts studies that is located in Mount Pleasant City, Iowa. It was established in 1841 when a group of early Methodist settlers in Mount Pleasant asked the Iowa territorial legislature to inaugurate a religious educational institute. On February 1842, the Iowa territorial legislature approved the establishment of Mount Pleasant Literary Institute which was renamed in a short while to be Mount Pleasant Collegiate Institute. On March 1843 four residents of Mount Pleasant donated a 20 acres land to be added to the campus. In the same month, Reverend Artistides J. Heustis was selected by the organizing committee of the collegiate to be its first president. On February 1855, the name of the institute was changed to be Iowa Wesleyan University as a memory of the Methodism founder, John Wesley and to show the expanded academic programs offered by the institute. In the following year, Winfield Scott Mayne, the first college-level graduate, was awarded his Bachelor of Arts degree. In 1912, the University changed its name again to be Iowa Wesleyan College before returning back to its name as Iowa Wesleyan University on August 2015 to reflect its wide scope of offered academic programs.
IWU campus currently occupies around a 60-acres land that includes a combination of modern structures buildings and a historically red-brick buildings. The campus comprises a number of historic buildings that are listed among the National Register of Historic Places such as the Old Main building and the Harlan-Lincoln House, the formerly summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln, which is now a museum containing many of the Harlan and Lincoln families’ artifacts.
IWU consists of 5 academic divisions that offer undergraduate degrees in more than 30 majors and 10 minors in addition to 9 graduate programs. IWU offers online education in some selected concentrations. It is ranked as the 60th among the Regional College Midwest list by the U.S. News and World Report in 2017.
IWU School Facts
- Years Estd.1842
- NicknameTigers
- MascotTiger
- MottoLearning in Community: An Academic Vision
- ColorsPurple and White
- LocationIowa
- Athletics12
- Religious AffiliationUnited Methodist
Famous IWU Alumni
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Dana Carl Holgorsen
Professional Sports
An American professional football player and coach. The current head coach of West Virginia University team.
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Arabella Mansfield
Politics & Law
An American female lawyer, college administrator and educator. The first female lawyer in the United States.
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John Hopwood Mickey
Politics & Law
An American politician and a former Republican member. Former Governor of Nebraska from 1903 till 1907.
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Eunice Viola Babcock Miller
Politics & Law
An American politician, commonly known as Ola Babock Miller. The first female to be Iowa Secretary of State.
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Sigurd E. Sandberg
Professional Sports
An American football player, commonly known as Sandy Sandberg. A former player in the National Football League (NFL) for four seasons.
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James Alfred Van Allen
Science & Medicine
An American former space scientist and researcher. The establisher of the field of magnetospheric research in space.
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Kaplan University
Davenport, Iowa
- 45,355 Total Students
- 21 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- Yes Online Programs
Kaplan University started in 1938 when Stanley Kaplan started tutoring students in the basement of his home. Around 1945, universities started to rely more on standardized tests for admission and Kaplan courses were helping students prepare for these tests and improve their scores. Thirty years later, the preparation courses were legally recognized. In 1984, the Kaplan Inc. which owned more than 100 centers was purchased by the Graham Holdings Company. Kaplan opened its first center outside US in 1993. Three years later, Kaplan acquired Score Learning Inc. which was later called Kaplan Kids providing online learning and after school tutoring services for children. In 1999, the school was selected by the U.S. Department of Education among 15 schools to receive a grant that allows offering online programs. In 2000, Kaplan became a higher education institute by the acquisition of Quest Education Corporation which consists of a network of career colleges. In 2017, Purdue University purchased Kaplan University changing it to a non-profit organization. The University currently has 14 campuses in Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Missouri and Wisconsin in addition to a university learning center in Maryland.
The university is mainly focused on distant learning. It is divided into 8 main divisions granting more than 12,000 degrees and certificates per year. Kaplan relies on competence based education which allows the university to award credits to students who demonstrate that they fulfilled certain learning outcomes through professional or military training. The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Kaplan School Facts
- Years Estd.1937 as the American Institute of Commerce
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationNot applicable
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Loras College
Dubuque, Iowa
- 1,528 Total Students
- 95% Acceptance Rate
- 33% Enrollment Rate
- 12 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 1,250 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
Loras College is a Catholic four-year higher education institute located in Dubuque, Iowa. The college was founded in 1839 by the Most Rev. Bishop Mathias Loras under the name of Saint Raphael’s Seminary. Its name was changed several times as it was named Saint Raphael’s Academy (1839), Mount St. Bernard’s College and Seminary (1850), St. Joseph’s College (1873) Dubuque College (1914) and Columbia College (1920). It finally got its current name in 1939. Loras College initiated its graduate program in 1963 when the Catholic University of America terminated its branch program of graduate studies on that was located at Loras campus. Loras became a coeducational institute in 1971. Loras is one of the three Catholic colleges currently operating in the Archdiocese of Dubuque, which is the only Archdiocese in the United States that is not located in a major metropolitan area.
The college states its mission is to establish a community of active thinkers, decision makers and participants in the professional, religious and social aspects. Loras campus covers 65 acres containing 23 buildings, 2 athletic fields, a stadium, and 5 tennis courts. Facilities include Christ the King Chapel, Wahlert Memorial Library and the Visitation Complex. The oldest building on campus is Hoffmann Hall which was established in 1909. Keane Hall is the most visible building on campus as it is located on the top of the highest hill in the city. During the expansion of the campus, the college purchased Cox Street which runs through the campus for $50,000 and converted it into a pedestrian friendly walk way. The official colors of the university are gold and purple while its mascot is called Dewey the Duhawk. Loras athletic teams compete in the NCAA Division III.
The college offers undergraduate programs in more than 50 majors in addition to 11 independent minors. There are also 5 graduate programs and 2 certificate programs. The college is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. All enrolled students receive some sort of financial support.
Loras School Facts
- Years Estd.1839
- NicknameDuhawks
- MascotDewey the Duhawk
- MottoPro Deo Et Patria (For God and Country)
- ColorsGold and Purple
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationRoman Catholic
Famous Loras Alumni
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Don Ameche
Entertainment & Arts
American actor and voice artist
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Bill Bartmann
Social Advocacy & Service
CEO of CFS2 and Nobel Peace Prize nominee for 2014
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Pam Jochum
Politics & Law
first woman to hold the title of Senate President
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Javier Manzano
Social Advocacy & Service
freelancer photographer who received the Public Photo Prize Award and the Pulitzer Priz for feature photography
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Raymond Roseliep
Entertainment & Arts
American poet famous for haiku
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Luther College
Decorah, Iowa
- 2,337 Total Students
- 67% Acceptance Rate
- 24% Enrollment Rate
- 12 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 3,896 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
Luther College is a private college for liberal arts located in Decorah, Iowa. It was established as Luther Seminary by Norwegian immigrants in 1861. It is currently affiliated to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. In 1866, students at the seminary signed “a rights bill” which was considered as “the worst of sins” by the pastors assembled in a pastoral conference shortly after. In 1932, Luther College cancelled its mandatory study of the classics to adapt the the modern concept of the liberal arts education. The college started in 1936 to accept female students motivated by the financial limitations caused by the Great Depression. In 1964, Luther’s museum collection became independent of the college and was established as the Norwegian-American Museum.
Luther main campus is located at the edge of Decorah which is a small town situated in the hilly driftless region of the Midwestern United States. It covers around 200 acres with several distinctive buildings as Dahl Centennial Union, Bentdahl Commons, Valders Hall of Science, Sampson Hoffland Laboratories, Franklin W. Olin Building, Preus Library, Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Sperati Guest House, Larsen Hall, Loyalty Hall, Farwell Hall, Carlson Stadium and Ylvisaker Hall. Additionally, the university has more than 800 acres of field research areas. The official colors of the university are blue and white. Its athletic teams, which are nicknamed Norse, are members of the Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.
Luther College is undergraduate only college offering 50 programs. It is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools in addition to having membership in the Associated Colleges of the Midwest and the Annapolis Group. Luther was ranked 90th among liberal arts colleges according to U.S. News and World Report.
Luther School Facts
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationEvangelical Lutheran Church
Famous Luther Alumni
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Torger Juve
Politics & Law
Wisconsin State Legislature
-
Ingebrikt Grose
Education & Advocacy
first president of Concordia College
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Jacob Aall Ottesen Preus
Politics & Law
former Governor of Minnesota
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Marv Olson
Professional Sports
Major League baseball player
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Arne Sorenson
Business & Industry
president and CEO of Marriott International
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Maharishi University of Management
Fairfield, Iowa
- 1,530 Total Students
- 37% Acceptance Rate
- 68% Enrollment Rate
- 11 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 84 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
Maharishi University of Management is a private non-profit organization. It was established in 1973 by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi using a “consciousness-based education” system that utilizes the Transcendental Meditation technique. The first class of the university started with 700 students. The university initially operated in Goleta, California under the name of Maharishi International University. It then moved in 1974 to its current location in Fairfield, Iowa. The 370-acres campus was purchased for $2.5 million from the bankrupt Parsons College. In the following year, the university started the commencement exercise awarding 13 Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies degrees and 38 Master’s degrees. Five years later, the university received accreditation for the doctoral programs. In the following year, the university completed the establishment of the two 20,000 square foot meditation buildings called Golden Domes to be used for daily group practice of the Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi programs. In 1984, the university nominated six buildings to be listed on the National Historic Register. The university changed its name in 1995 to its current name. Five years later, local preservationists protested against the demolition of Parsons Hall and Barhydt Chapel, however, the university demolished between 2000 and 2005, the two buildings among several other buildings.
The university aimed at its establishment at the development of the full potential of the students taking into consideration the needs of the economic and achieving the proper use of the resources to reach spiritual fulfillment and happiness of the humanity. Its current campus is located in Fairfield, Iowa. It offers several distinctive buildings as Henn Mansion, Gate Ridge Court Building, Verrill Hall, the McLaughlin Building, Hildenbrand residence hall, Utopia Park, Maharishi Veda Bhavan and the Maharishi Tower of Invincibility. The official colors of the campus are green and gold.
The university offers undergraduate programs in 13 majors and 4 minors in addition to 6 master’s and 2 PhD degree programs. The university is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and was a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
MUM School Facts
- Years Estd.1971
- ColorsGreen and gold
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationNot applicable
Famous MUM Alumni
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Peter McWilliams
Entertainment & Arts
self-help author who advocated for the legalization of marijuana
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Nat Goldhaber
Education & Advocacy
helped in the establishment of the university and got his BA and PhD degrees from it
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John Gray
Entertainment & Arts
Author of the book Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus
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Chris Hartnett
Business & Industry
CEO of USA Global Link
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Jennie Rothenberg-Gritz
Entertainment & Arts
Senior editor of the Atlantic Magazine
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Mercy College of Health Sciences
Des Moines, Iowa
- 789 Total Students
- 100% Acceptance Rate
- 61% Enrollment Rate
- 9 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 76 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
Mercy College of Health Sciences is a higher education institute offering studies in the medical field. It was established in 1893 by three sisters from Mercy Hospital who established a hospital in Des Moines, Iowa followed by establishment of the school 6 years later under the name of the Mercy Hospital Training School providing education to nurses. Its first class graduated in 1901 which consisted of 7 students. In 1994, the college was renamed Mercy Schools of Nursing, Radiology and Emergency Medical Services indicating expansion of its educational programs. The name was changed again in the following year. The college has partnership agreements with Mercy Medical Center, Des Moines, Mercy Health Network and Catholic Health Initiatives.
Mercy college states that its mission is to prepare students to become servants and leaders in the field of health care by providing comprehensive education that include its core values, science and liberal arts. The college campus is located in downtown Des Moines, Iowa offering several distinctive buildings and facilities as Mercy Child Development Center, Sullivan Center and Crocker Building.
Mercy College offers six bachelor degree programs, 7 associate degree programs in addition to certificate degree programs. It is accredited by the Higher Education Commission.
Mercy School Facts
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationRoman Catholic
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Morningside College
Sioux City, Iowa
- 2,797 Total Students
- 56% Acceptance Rate
- 15% Enrollment Rate
- 13 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 4,556 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
Morningside College is a private higher education institute for liberal arts located in Sioux City, Iowa. It was established in 1894 by the Methodist Episcopal Church. Its campus was formerly the northern part of the farm of Edwin C. Peters, who established Morningside suburb. The college faced significant financial challenge during the Financial Panic in 1893 that resulted in its closure in the following year. In the same year, the ownership of the college was transferred to the Methodist Episcopal Church. In 1914, the same church purchased Charles City College that is located in Charles City, Iowa and merged it into Morningside College. In 1997, part of the college campus was listed as a historic district on the National Register of Historic Places. The historic district is located on a hilltop overlooking the Missouri River valley.
The college campus covers 100 acres with several distinctive buildings. These include 9 historic buildings as Charles City College Hall, Lewis Hall, Hickman-Johnson-Furrow Library, Lillian Dimmitt House, Dimmitt Residence Hall, Jones Hall of Science, Alice Gymnasium, Roadman Hall and O’Donoghue Observatory. The campus also hosts several registered historic monuments as The Spoonholder and the three Harmony Lane Lampposts. Morningside students have the option to stay at 6 different residential halls including Plex and Lags Hall. The official colors of the college are maroon and white while its mascot is called the mustangs. Its athletic teams compete in the Great Plains Athletic Conference as members of NAIA.
Morningside offers 22 undergraduate programs in addition to 2 graduate degree programs including an entirely online program. The college also offers a study abroad program and a teaching internship program. It provides support to first-year students through a dedicated center, named Krone Advising Center. The college is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Morningside School Facts
- Years Estd.December 5, 1894
- Nickname"Mustangs"
- MascotThe Mustangs
- MottoThe Morningside College experience cultivates a passion for life-long learning and a dedication to ethical leadership and civic responsibility
- ColorsMaroon and White
- LocationIowa
- AthleticsBaseball, Basketball, Bowling, Cross Country, Football, Golf, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Track & Field, Volleyball, Wrestling
- Religious AffiliationUnited Methodist
Famous Morningside Alumni
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George Everett Day
Politics & Law
a retired colonel in the United States Air Force and recipient of the Medal of Honor
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Paul Splittorff
Professional Sports
professional baseball player for the Kansas City Royals
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Daryl Hecht
Politics & Law
Justice of the Iowa Supreme Court
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Harry E. Siman
Politics & Law
member of the Nebraska State Senate
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Ira N. Gabrielson
Entertainment & Arts
first director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
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Mount Mercy University
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
- 1,877 Total Students
- 61% Acceptance Rate
- 35% Enrollment Rate
- 14 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 1,108 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
Mount Mercy University is a Catholic coeducational private university for liberal arts. It was established by the Sisters of Mercy of Cedar Rapids in 1928. It initially operated as a two year female college till it became a 4-year college in 1957. The college awarded the first bachelor degree in 1959. In the following year, the college was legally recognized as a baccalaureate institute by the North Central Association. In 1968, the college became an independent administered by a separate board of trustees that includes at least three members of the Sisters of Mercy. Mount Mercy became coeducational in the following year. In 1997, the college started a joint program with Kirkwood Community College to offer accelerated degree completion for working adults. Mount Mercy achieved the university in 2013 gaining its current name.
The university campus is located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa covering 40 acres. Part of the campus, known as “Our Mother of Sorrows Grotto” is registered as a historic district on the National Register of Historic Places. The campus offers several distinctive buildings including Sacred Heart Convent, Hennessey Recreation Center, Donnelly Center, Basile Hall, Betty Cherry Heritage Hall, Warde Hall, McAuley Hall and Andreas House. The university library, which is known as Busse Library, covers 6,000 square meters with more than 130,000 volumes and 11,000 ebooks. The university produces since 1994 a weekly newspaper called Mount Mercy Times which is distributed to more than 4,000 people in the local community. The official colors of the university are blue and gold. Its athletic teams, who are nicknamed Mustangs, compete in the Heart of America Athletic Conference as members of NAIA.
The university is divided into 8 academic departments. It offers undergraduate programs in 29 majors and 12 minors. It also offers 9 pre-professional programs and 6 master’s programs. Moreover, the university announced that it will start a doctoral program in 2018. Several bachelor and master’s programs are also offered online.
Mount Mercy School Facts
- Years Estd.1928
- NicknameMustangs
- LocationIowa
- AthleticsNAIA MCC
- Religious AffiliationRoman Catholic
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Northwestern College
Orange City, Iowa
- 1,210 Total Students
- 72% Acceptance Rate
- 28% Enrollment Rate
- 13 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 1,234 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
Northwestern College is a private Christian higher education institute located in Orange City, Iowa. The college was established in 1882 under the name of “Northwestern Classical Academy”. In 1894, the college established its first permenant building; Zwemer Hall, which is currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The academy expanded into a junior college in 1928 changing its name to Northwestern Junior College. In 1953, the college received institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission. It finally became a four-year college changing its name to the current one in 1961.
The college states that its mission is to provide courageous and faithful learning environment that prepares the students to follow Christ and become God servants in the world. The college has a rural campus covering 100 acres. It offers several distinctive buildings and facilities including Juffer Athletic Fieldhouse, Ramaker Center, DeWitt Learning Commons, DeWitt Physical Fitness Center, Rowenhorst Student Center, DeWitt Theatre Arts Center, Korver Visual Arts Center, Bultman Center for Health, Physical Education and Intercollegiate Athletics and Christ Chapel. Every year the students organize dancing concert, RUSH which is completely run by students. The university athletic teams, who are nicknamed Red Raiders, compete in the Great Plains Athletic Conference as members of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics. The official colors of the college are red and white.
The college is divided into 23 academic departments. It offers undergraduate programs in 50 majors in addition to 17 pre-professional programs. There are also 6 interdisciplinary programs and an ESL non-degree program. Moreover, the college has a school for graduate studies and adult learning. Northwestern sends each spring around 200 students to to serve with ministries in the U.S. Similarly, students can also participate in the Summer of Service Program.
NW School Facts
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationReformed Church in America
Famous NW Alumni
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Kelvin Korver
Professional Sports
former American football player for the Oakland Raiders
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Bob Boerigter
Professional Sports
former athletic director for Northwest Missouri State University
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Bob Vander Plaats
Social Advocacy & Service
president and CEO of the Family Leader organization
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University of Dubuque
Dubuque, Iowa
- 2,179 Total Students
- 77% Acceptance Rate
- 40% Enrollment Rate
- 15 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 1,457 Total Applicants
- Yes Online Programs
The institution that is currently known as the University of Dubuque was founded in 1852 by the Rev. Adrian Van Vliet. Adrian was pastor of the German Presbyterian Church which is currently known as the first Presbyterian church of Dubuque. The institute aimed at training ministers to serve the influx of immigrants in the area. The school started with two men who were taught in Van Vliet home. In 1864, the Presbytery of Dubuque assumed control of the school, and its name was changed to the German theological school of the North West. The school relocated in 1872 to a brick building on the north side of 17th street. The school granted its first college degrees in 1906, and in the following it moved to its current location. In 1911, the school became a coeducational institute. In 1916, the name of the school was changed to the Dubuque German College and Seminary before being changed again after the World War I to Dubuque College. It got its current name in 1920 and it expanded notably in the 1950s and 1960s when many of the current buildings were constructed. In 1999, the university was forced to terminate the hiring of 10 professors due to financial difficulties. This action resulted in placing the university on its list of censured administrations.
The University of Dubuque campus is located in Dubuque, Iowa. It offers several distinctive buildings and facilities including Charles C. Myers library, Smith Hall, Stoltz Sports Center, McCormick Gymnasium, Blades Hall, Van Vliet Hall and Severance Hall. The university athletic teams, who are nicknamed Spartans, compete in NCAA Division III as members of the American Rivers Conference. Their official colors are blue and white.
Dubuque is divided into 3 schools. It offers graduate and undergraduate programs. The university is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.
UD School Facts
- Years Estd.1852
- NicknameSpartans
- MascotSparty the Spartan
- MottoMancherlei Gaben und Ein Geist (trans: Many Talents and One Spirit)
- ColorsRoyal Blue and White
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationPresbyterian Church (USA)
Famous UD Alumni
-
Walter Soboleff
Social Advocacy & Service
the first Native Alaskan to become an ordained Presbyterian minister
-
Solomon Butler
Professional Sports
one of the first black players in the National Football League and an early actor in Hollywood films
-
Nemesio Rodriguez
Politics & Law
prime minister of education for the country of Peru
-
Tony Danza
Entertainment & Arts
actor participating in TV sitcoms including Taxi and Who's the Boss?
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Eckhard Gerdes
Entertainment & Arts
author who wrote My Landlady the Lobotomistand Hugh Moore
All Top Colleges in Iowa
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Coe College
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
- 1,411 Total Students
- 63% Acceptance Rate
- 17% Enrollment Rate
- 11 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 3,457 Total Applicants
- No Online Programs
Coe is a present day private, liberal arts institute which was started by Rev. Williston Jones in 1851 as he began teaching and preparing few young men in his region to work for the churches. He called his little school, The School for the Prophets. In a couple of years, with a considerable sum of money from Daniel Coe, a farmer, Cedar Rapids Collegiate Institute a coeducational college was set up in 1853. It faced change in ownerships and financial difficulties in the years to come.
By 1881, it was finally made into Coe College and stays affiliated with Presbyterian Church (USA). The college based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and started with the aim of preparing individuals for God’s mission and still remains to be the institute that prepares individuals for a greater purpose achieved through knowledge acquisition and professional and ethical practices in the communities.
For the students, Coe remains to be a place which encourages curiosity and engagement. At the campus, students are provided many opportunities for engagement, such as having more than a hundred student led groups and organisations, including honorary clubs and fraternities and sororities. Besides these, the Student Activities Committee (SAC) also provides entertainment and events on campus such as music, poets, live events, comedians, lecturers and many others. The college holds an evening event every Friday. Equal importance is given to religious life at the campus and the college Chaplain is provided for students to get counselling and for prayer and spiritual needs. For career preparation, there is Center for Creativity and Careers which helps students secure the right jobs, internships and other career opportunities. The college has also taken up sustainability causes such as food, energy, recycling and water. There is athletic participation as well at the NCAA Division III and the campus colors are Crimson and Gold.
Academic programs offered at the college are following degree programs: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Science in Nursing with over 40 majors. Its prestigious facilities are Stewart Memorial Library, Stuart Hall, Peterson Hall and Sinclair Auditorium.
Coe School Facts
- Years Estd.1851
- NicknameKohawks
- Motto"Veritas Virtusque" (Truth and Virtue)
- ColorsCrimson and gold
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationPresbyterian Church (USA)
Famous Coe Alumni
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James William Good
Politics & Law
US Congressman and Secretary of War
-
S. Donald Stookey
Science & Medicine
Inventor; has 60 patents in his name related to glass and ceramics; also inventor of Fotoform and CorningWare
-
Michael Boddicker
Entertainment & Arts
Grammy winning musician
-
Shelby Steele
Education & Advocacy
Author, sociologist and political commentator
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Timothy S. Hillman
Politics & Law
U.S. District Court judge
-
Paul Engle
Education & Advocacy
Director of the Iowa Writer's Workshop and the International Writer's Workshop
-
Jason Kottke
Entertainment & Arts
Blogger and designer
-
Fred Jackson
Professional Sports
NFL running back with Seattle Seahawks
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Grinnell College
Grinnell, Iowa
- 1,705 Total Students
- 25% Acceptance Rate
- 28% Enrollment Rate
- 9 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 6,414 Total Applicants
- No Online Programs
Grinnell College is a private higher education institute for liberal arts. It was established in 1846 under the name of Iowa College by eleven Congregational ministers. After considering several locations for the college, it was established in Davenport. 25 years later, the college was transferred to Grinnell. The college granted bachelor degree for the first time in 1854 for two students. However, ten years later, most of the students and staff members participated in the civil war which delayed the teaching process. After the civil war, women were accepted for the first time to be enrolled. In 1882, both buildings of the campus were destroyed by a tornado. Reconstruction started immediately after that and the buildings were expanded. The college also expanded the range of programs offered to include political sciences making it the first college to offer such discipline in the U.S.
The college campus is located on a 120-acre piece of land in Grinnell, Iowa. It contains 63 buildings. The campus has an architecture style that ranges between Collegiate Gothic and Bauhaus. Two of its buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic places; the Goodnow Hall and Mears Cottage which were built in 1889. There are several other distinctive buildings on campus including the Bucksbaum Center for the Arts, the Robert Noyce ’49 Science Center and the Joe Rosenfield ’25 Student Center. Additionally, the university maintains an environmental research area covering 365 acres that is known as CERA.
The college offers degrees from 26 major departments in addition to 10 interdisciplinary concentrations. Approximately, 60% of the students enrolled at the college participate at least once in one of more than 70 different off-campus programs that give them a chance to travel to different countries of Europe, Africa and China. The college has excellent reputation for its undergraduate programs and it was ranked 5th for best undergraduate teaching, 7th among best value schools and 19th among best liberal arts colleges nationally by the U.S. News and World Report.
Grinnell School Facts
- Years Estd.1846
- NicknamePioneers
- MottoVeritas et Humanitas (Latin)
- Motto Eng.Truth and Humanity
- ColorsScarlet and Black
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationNot applicable
Famous Grinnell Alumni
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Harry Hopkins
Politics & Law
senior advisor to Franklin Roosevelt
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Robert Noyce
Business & Industry
co-inventor of integrated circuits and cofounder of intel
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Gary Cooper
Entertainment & Arts
Winner of three Academy Awards for best actor
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Herbie Hancock
Entertainment & Arts
Jazz musician and composer who won Academy Award and several Grammy awards
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John Garang
Politics & Law
Leader of the rebel Sudan People's Liberation Army and first president of south sudan
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Katayama Sen
Politics & Law
founder of the Communist Party in Japan
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Hamilton Technical College
Davenport, Iowa
- 150 Total Students
- 15 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- No Online Programs
Hamilton Technical College was founded in 1969, in Bettendorf, as the Academy of Radio and Television (ART) by Charles Hamilton, Jr., who started it by teaching students to take the Federal Communications Commission examination needed for broadcasting. While preparing the students around his kitchen table, he was inspired beyond the test preparation to train them to be broadcasters. The vision of Hamilton grew with the need of the employer and the academy developed an Electronics program in 1978 and was recognized as a Technical College specializing in Electronics Engineering Technology. The named was modified into ART Technical College. The program grew more and the name was changed into Hamilton Technical College in 1980 (HTC). In 1991, HTC moved all classes to the contemporary location in Davenport, Iowa. In the same year, the college responded to the community need by initiating the Medical Assisting Technology program as a 9-months diploma.
The mission of Hamilton Tech is “to educate for a rewarding career”
The college is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). It is also a member of the Greater Quad Cities Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
Hamilton Tech has two main schools; the School of Technology that includes the Electronics Engineering Technology program and School of Allied Health that includes both the Medical Billing and Coding program and the Medical Assisting Technology program.
Hamilton Tech School Facts
- Years Estd.1969
- Motto"To educate for a rewarding career"
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationNot applicable
Famous Hamilton Tech Alumni
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Paula Sands
Entertainment & Arts
KWQC-TV anchor
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William (Spike) O'Dell
Business & Industry
American former radio host for WGN Radio in Chicago
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Palmer College of Chiropractic
Davenport, Iowa
- 2,222 Total Students
- 100% Acceptance Rate
- 100% Enrollment Rate
- 4 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
- 1 Total Applicants
- No Online Programs
Palmer College of Chiropractic is a private higher education for chiropractic medicine. The college was established in 1897 Daniel David Palmer as the first college for chiropractic in the world. The college was initially named the Palmer School and Cure. Daniel David Palmer is known as the Discoverer of chiropractic and The Founder of the chiropractic profession. In 1907, the school received its charter and changed its name to Palmer School of Chiropractic. In 1961, Daniel’s son, David Daniel Palmer, took responsibility as the president of the school. He became later known as the educator. Three years later, the school was designated as a non-profit institute changing its name to the current one. In 1980, the college expanded by acquiring Northern California College of Chiropractic which is currently the location of Palmer West campus. In 1987, Vickie Anne Palmer was elected as the chairman and became known as the Refiner of chiropractic. In 2000, the college further expanded by establishing a second branch campus in Port Orange, Florida.
The college states that its mission is to prepare the students to become qualified doctors of chiropractic. The main campus of the college is located in Davenport, Iowa. The campus consists of a mixture of historic and modern buildings. Distinctive buildings on campus include David D. Palmer Health Sciences Library, B.J. and Mabel Palmer Residence, Campus Center, Vickie Anne Palmer Hall, Vickie Anne Palmer Hall and the Memorial Building which is the oldest building on campus. The campus also includes the Palmer Center for Chiropractic Research which was established in 1995 and is currently the most highly funded research center for chiropractic medicine with annual budget of $5 million. Additionally, the college operates two branch campuses in Port Orange, Florida and San Jose, California. Moreover, the college has Palmer Community Outreach Clinics offering services at low cost or free of charge.
Palmer School Facts
- Years Estd.1897
- LocationIowa
- Religious AffiliationNot applicable
Famous Palmer Alumni
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Charles R. Herring
Politics & Law
member of the Louisiana House of Representatives
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William Winfield Hunter
Science & Medicine
prominent Chiropractic Doctor in Pittsburgh
