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University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

21,691
Total Students
$11K
Tuition (In-State)
$33K
Tuition (Out-State)
$21K
Avg Net Price
85%
Acceptance Rate
73%
Graduation Rate
6-year
89%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About University of Iowa

Iowa: pioneering research, diverse academics, and a vibrant student experience on the Iowa River.

The University of Iowa, established in 1847, stands as the state's oldest and largest public research university, nestled on an urban 1,880-acre campus along the picturesque Iowa River. Recognized as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity," UIowa is a powerhouse of discovery, boasting $818 million in research expenditures in fiscal year 2021. It's a proud member of the Association of American Universities and the Universities Research Association, reflecting its commitment to groundbreaking advancements and scholarly excellence across its 12 colleges and over 200 areas of study, including 7 professional degrees.

Historically, the University of Iowa has been a beacon of progress and inclusivity. It proudly holds the distinction of being the first public university in the United States to admit men and women on an equal basis and to open a coeducational medical school. Its pioneering spirit extends to academics, as the original developer of the Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree. Furthermore, Iowa was the world's first university to accept creative work in theater, writing, music, and art on par with academic research, cementing its legacy through the renowned Iowa Writers' Workshop, which boasts 17 Pulitzer Prize-winning alumni.

Life in Iowa City is dynamic and engaging for its over 31,563 students. The university fosters a rich student experience with nearly 500 student organizations, ensuring there’s a community for every passion. On the athletic front, the Iowa Hawkeyes, with 22 varsity teams, electrify fans as they compete in Division I of the NCAA and are proud members of the prestigious Big Ten Conference. With a quarter-million strong alumni network, graduates carry the Hawkeye spirit far and wide, making a global impact.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1847, it is the oldest and largest university in Iowa.
  • ✦Home to the prestigious Iowa Writers' Workshop, which has produced 17 Pulitzer Prize winners.
  • ✦Classified as "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity," with research expenditures totaling $818 million in fiscal year 2021.
  • ✦A pioneer in higher education, being the first public university in the U.S. to admit men and women on an equal basis.
  • ✦Offers over 200 areas of study and 7 professional degrees across 12 colleges.
  • ✦Original developer of the Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree.
  • ✦Engages over 31,563 students (Fall 2025) in nearly 500 student organizations and is a proud member of the NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference.

Timeline

1847
Founded on February 25, just 59 days after Iowa was admitted to the Union.
1855
First instruction offered; became the first public university in the U.S. to admit men and women on an equal basis.
1857
The Old Capitol became the university's first permanent home after the state capital moved to Des Moines.
1873
Granted a law degree to a woman (Mary B. Hickey Wilkinson), one of the first in America.
1879
Granted a law degree to an African American (Alexander G. Clark, Jr.), one of the first in America.
1895
Put an African American on a varsity athletic squad (Frank Holbrook), one of the first in America.
1898
Awarded its first doctorate degree.
1964
Board of Regents approved "The University of Iowa" for everyday usage, while retaining the legal name "State University of Iowa".

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within University of Iowa

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Medical School

Known as the first coeducational medical school in the United States.

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Law School

A pioneering institution, among the first in America to grant law degrees to women (1873) and African Americans (1879).

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