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Best Nursing Schools in Iowa: Programs, Tuition & How to Apply

GradeToGrad Editorial Team

March 25, 2026

Explore Iowa's 20 nursing programs—from affordable 2-year associate degrees to bachelor's and master's programs. Compare tuition, acceptance rates, and earning potential to find your path.

Overview of Nursing Education in Iowa

Iowa offers a robust landscape of nursing education options across 20 accredited programs—11 community colleges and 9 universities. Whether you're seeking an affordable entry point into nursing or pursuing advanced credentials, Iowa's schools provide multiple pathways to licensure and career growth.

The state's nursing programs range from Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs at community colleges to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master's Degree programs at universities. This diversity means you can tailor your education to your financial situation, timeline, and career goals.

Iowa nursing graduates earn competitive salaries relative to their education level. Associate degree holders earn between $47,579–$57,593 annually, while bachelor's degree graduates earn $52,771–$66,753 per year. Advanced degree holders can earn significantly more—Morningside University's master's graduates earn $99,854 annually.

Top University Nursing Programs in Iowa

University of Iowa (Iowa City)

Type: Public, 4-Year University
In-State Tuition: $10,964/year
Acceptance Rate: 84.7%
Graduation Rate: 73.4%
Enrollment: 21,691
Nursing Graduate Earnings: $108,049/year (Doctoral Degree)

The University of Iowa stands as Iowa's flagship institution and offers one of the state's most affordable bachelor's nursing programs. With an acceptance rate of 84.7%, it's more accessible than many peer institutions while maintaining strong academic standards. The 73.4% graduation rate reflects solid student success, and Iowa City's college town atmosphere provides excellent clinical training opportunities through the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

The university's doctoral nursing programs position graduates for advanced practice roles and leadership positions, with earnings reflecting the advanced credentials.

Luther College (Decorah)

Type: Private Nonprofit, 4-Year University
In-State Tuition: $50,320/year
Acceptance Rate: 73.3%
Graduation Rate: 74.6%
Enrollment: 1,454
Nursing Graduate Earnings: $66,753/year (Bachelor's Degree)

Luther College combines rigorous academics with a strong liberal arts foundation. Though tuition is higher at $50,320 annually, the 74.6% graduation rate is among Iowa's best, indicating excellent student support and program quality. Graduates earn $66,753 on average, reflecting strong career outcomes. Luther's small enrollment size (1,454 students) means individualized attention and mentoring from faculty.

Morningside University (Sioux City)

Type: Private Nonprofit, 4-Year University
In-State Tuition: $38,190/year
Acceptance Rate: 70.6%
Graduation Rate: 54.5%
Enrollment: 1,166
Nursing Graduate Earnings: $99,854/year (Master's Degree)

Morningside University offers a unique advantage: master's degree nursing programs that position graduates for advanced practice roles. With master's graduates earning $99,854 annually, Morningside provides a pathway to higher-earning positions in nurse practitioner, clinical specialist, or leadership roles. The moderate tuition of $38,190 makes this advanced education relatively accessible.

Saint Ambrose University (Davenport)

Type: Private Nonprofit, 4-Year University
In-State Tuition: $35,598/year
Acceptance Rate: 73.3%
Graduation Rate: 63.4%
Enrollment: 2,101
Nursing Graduate Earnings: $61,530/year (Bachelor's Degree)

Located in the Quad Cities region, Saint Ambrose offers a mid-range tuition option at $35,598 annually with a 73.3% acceptance rate. The program serves over 2,100 students, providing a balance between personalized attention and institutional resources. Strong clinical partnerships in the Quad Cities area provide diverse training environments.

Other University Options

Upper Iowa University (Fayette): Most accessible private option at $19,000/year with 93.4% acceptance rate. Graduates earn $64,083 with bachelor's degrees. Note the lower 41.8% graduation rate suggests students should carefully evaluate support services.

Coe College (Cedar Rapids): Premium tuition at $52,576/year with selective 70.7% acceptance rate. Graduates earn $59,431 and benefit from Cedar Rapids' robust healthcare sector.

Dordt University (Sioux Center): $35,960 tuition with 71.2% acceptance and strong 66.2% graduation rate. Graduates earn $52,771.

University of Dubuque (Dubuque): $40,065 tuition with 86.9% acceptance but lower 40.2% graduation rate. Graduates earn $57,048.

Grand View University (Des Moines): Most accessible bachelor's program with 98.4% acceptance at $33,450/year. Graduates earn $53,729.

Community College Nursing Programs: The Affordable ADN Path

Iowa's 11 community colleges offer Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs—a cost-effective entry into nursing practice. ADN graduates are fully licensed RNs who can work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. Many later pursue RN-to-BSN bridge programs to earn bachelor's degrees while working.

Most Affordable Options

Eastern Iowa Community College District (Davenport): $4,680/year (lowest tuition in Iowa)
Nursing graduates earn $51,380 annually. Enrollment: 3,244

Indian Hills Community College (Ottumwa): $4,872/year
Nursing graduates earn $47,579 annually. Enrollment: 1,635

Western Iowa Tech Community College (Sioux City): $5,042/year
Nursing graduates earn $52,477 annually. Enrollment: 2,589

Mid-Range Community College Options

Des Moines Area Community College (Ankeny): $5,550/year
Largest community college enrollment (10,406) with strong Des Moines healthcare connections. Graduates earn $52,825.

Iowa Central Community College (Fort Dodge): $5,376/year
Graduates earn $51,433. Enrollment: 3,107

Kirkwood Community College (Cedar Rapids): $5,980/year
Enrollment: 7,438. Graduates earn $52,485. Strong Cedar Rapids healthcare partnerships.

Premium Community College Options

Northeast Iowa Community College (Calmar): $6,600/year
Graduates earn $52,179. Enrollment: 1,736

Hawkeye Community College (Waterloo): $6,308/year
Graduates earn $49,411. Enrollment: 2,528

Iowa Western Community College (Council Bluffs): $6,780/year (highest community college tuition)
Graduates earn $53,422. Enrollment: 3,029

Southeastern Community College (West Burlington): $6,300/year
Graduates earn $54,538. Enrollment: 1,529

North Iowa Area Community College (Mason City): $6,436/year
Graduates earn $57,593 (highest among community colleges). Enrollment: 1,271

How to Choose the Right Nursing Program

Consider Your Financial Situation

Budget-conscious students: Community colleges offer tuition from $4,680–$6,780 annually. Two years of ADN education costs $9,360–$13,560 total—substantially less than university programs. You'll graduate as a licensed RN and can work while pursuing a bachelor's degree later.

Students seeking bachelor's degrees: University of Iowa offers the best value at $10,964/year for a public university with strong outcomes. Private universities range from $19,000–$52,576 annually.

Career changers: Community colleges allow faster entry into nursing (2 years vs. 4) and lower financial commitment before confirming nursing is right for you.

Evaluate Graduation Rates

Graduation rates indicate institutional support and program quality:

Highest: Luther College (74.6%), University of Iowa (73.4%)
Strong: Dordt University (66.2%), Coe College (62.0%), Saint Ambrose (63.4%)
Caution: University of Dubuque (40.2%), Upper Iowa University (41.8%)

Lower graduation rates may reflect less student support or more rigorous standards. Research why before deciding.

Consider Location and Clinical Opportunities

Iowa's largest healthcare markets—Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Quad Cities, and Iowa City—offer the most clinical training opportunities and job prospects. Schools in these regions include:

University of Iowa (Iowa City)
Des Moines Area Community College (Ankeny)
Kirkwood Community College (Cedar Rapids)
Saint Ambrose University (Davenport)
Grand View University (Des Moines)

Assess Earning Potential

ADN graduates earn $47,579–$57,593 annually. BSN graduates earn $52,771–$66,753. Master's degree holders earn up to $99,854. Consider whether the additional tuition and time for a bachelor's or master's degree aligns with your financial goals.

The Iowa Nursing Job Market

Iowa faces a nursing shortage, creating strong job prospects for graduates. The state's aging population and rural healthcare needs drive demand for nurses across all settings—hospitals, clinics, long-term care, and home health.

Salary progression: Entry-level RNs typically earn $48,000–$55,000. Experienced nurses, nurse practitioners, and clinical specialists earn $70,000–$110,000+.

Job growth: Nursing is projected to grow faster than average occupations through 2032, with particular demand in rural Iowa communities.

Specialization opportunities: Iowa's healthcare systems employ nurses in critical care, emergency medicine, surgical nursing, pediatrics, psychiatry, and community health—allowing career customization and advancement.

Financial Aid for Nursing Students in Iowa

Federal Aid

All Iowa nursing programs qualify students for federal financial aid:

Pell Grants: Up to $7,395 (2024-25) for eligible low-income students
Federal Student Loans: Stafford loans up to $5,500–$12,500 annually depending on year
Work-Study: Part-time campus employment

State-Specific Aid

Iowa Grants: Need-based grants for Iowa residents attending Iowa schools (up to $1,200 annually for community college students, more for university students)

Iowa Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program: Helps nurses working in rural or underserved areas repay student loans

Institutional Aid

Most universities offer nursing scholarships. Contact financial aid offices directly:

University of Iowa nursing scholarships
Luther College merit aid (strong for high-achieving students)
Morningside University graduate scholarships

Employer Sponsorship

Many Iowa hospitals and healthcare systems offer tuition reimbursement or loan repayment for employees pursuing nursing degrees. Consider working in healthcare while studying to access these benefits.

Next Steps: Find Your Nursing Program

Ready to compare Iowa nursing schools side-by-side? Explore all Iowa nursing programs on GradeToGrad to filter by:

Tuition and cost
Acceptance rates
Graduation rates
Degree type (ADN, BSN, Master's)
Location

Application Timeline

Fall of junior year (high school): Research programs, attend information sessions
Fall of senior year: Submit applications (most rolling admissions)
Spring: Receive acceptances, compare financial aid packages
Summer: Prepare for nursing school (prerequisite courses, TEAS exam if required)
Fall: Begin nursing program

Before You Apply

Take prerequisite courses: Biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, microbiology (required for all programs)
Build strong GPA: Competitive programs prefer 3.0+ GPA
Consider the TEAS exam: Many Iowa programs require the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
Shadow nurses: Spend time with working nurses to confirm nursing is right for you
Calculate total cost: Include tuition, books, uniforms, licensing exam fees, and living expenses

Iowa's nursing schools provide affordable, accessible pathways into one of healthcare's most rewarding careers. Whether you choose a community college's quick entry or a university's comprehensive education, Iowa's strong job market ensures excellent career prospects after graduation.