CLT Colleges in

Iowa

Briar Cliff University, a private Franciscan institution founded in 1930, is located in Sioux City, Iowa, on a scenic 70-acre hilltop campus. With an enrollment of 941 students as of Fall 2023, the university has a diverse student body representing 35 states, American Samoa, and 24 countries, with 37% minority representation and a 45% male to 55% female ratio. Briar Cliff offers 32 undergraduate, 5 master’s, and 3 doctoral programs, maintaining a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Known for its strong academic foundation and supportive community, the university fosters student growth both inside and outside the classroom. Athletically, the Briar Cliff Chargers compete in 16 NAIA varsity sports within the Great Plains Athletic Conference (GPAC), reflecting a tradition of excellence in academics and athletics.

Dordt University, a Christian Reformed Church affiliate, provides a comprehensive education anchored on a Reformed Christian perspective. Renowned as a top regional university by U.S. News & World Report, Dordt has a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio, numerous majors, and specific accreditations in nursing, education, social work, and engineering. The school promotes a dynamic student life by providing several athletic and club options. Off-campus programs are available all over the world, and 98% of students get financial help totaling more than $18.5 million per year. The Wall Street Journal routinely recognizes Dordt's commitment to student engagement.

Dordt University, founded in 1955 in Sioux Center, Iowa, is a Reformed Christian liberal arts institution with over 90 academic programs. Named after the 1618–1619 Synod of Dordrecht, the university emphasizes biblical, Christ-centered education and servant-leadership. It offers accredited degrees in engineering, nursing, and social work, alongside global study programs in 10+ countries. The 115-acre campus includes a modern Campus Center with a bowling alley and recording studio. Dordt’s athletic teams, the Defenders, compete in the NAIA’s GPAC conference. With 98% of students receiving financial aid, the university fosters academic excellence, faith integration, and strong community engagement.

Emmaus University, formerly Emmaus Bible College, is a private Christian university in Dubuque, Iowa, affiliated with the Plymouth Brethren. Founded in 1941 in Toronto, it moved to Chicago in 1947 and Dubuque in 1984. It offers double majors in professional and biblical studies, a new master’s program, and online courses. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and ABHE, Emmaus has around 200 students and competes in NCCAA Division II athletics. The campus is served by The Jule transit system.

Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary, located in Ankeny, Iowa, is a private Christian institution founded in 1921 as the Omaha Bible Institute. Affiliated with the General Association of Regular Baptist Churches (GARBC), it moved to Ankeny in 1967 and adopted its current name. The school offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in biblical studies, theology, and ministry. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the Association for Biblical Higher Education, it also competes in NCCAA Division II athletics as the Eagles.

Loras College, founded in 1839 and rooted in Catholic tradition, promotes service, faith, and academic distinction. Founded as St. Raphael's Seminary, it changed names several times before settling on its current one in 1939. It is North Central Association of Colleges and Schools accredited and provides a wide range of undergraduate programs, pre-professional tracks, and graduate degrees. The Duhawks, who play in NCAA Division III, have had significant success in soccer. The scenic Dubuque campus, which includes 23 buildings, is home to historic monuments like as Christ the King Chapel and focuses on continuous growth and intellectual development.

Northwestern College (NWC), a private Christian college in Orange City, Iowa, was founded in 1882 and enrolls over 1,700 students in 135+ programs. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, it offers bachelor's and master's degrees with strong business, nursing, and education programs. NWC has a 15:1 student-faculty ratio, a 99% job placement rate, and a $31,500 average financial aid package. Its 100-acre campus has seen $80 million in improvements since 2008. The college competes in the NAIA’s GPAC and offers study abroad programs in Oman and Romania. Rooted in faith, NWC emphasizes academic excellence and career readiness.