In Iowa, 42% of jobs require a bachelor's degree, but only 22% of the state's residents currently hold one, according to a 2025 report by the Community Colleges for Iowa. That gap suggests strong demand for workers with bachelor's degrees.
State employment projections by the Department of Labor also show a high demand for master's degree holders over the next decade. Explore this page for top online colleges in Iowa, average costs, in-demand careers, and scholarships to make your degree more affordable.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.Top Affordable Online Colleges in Iowa
Price Check
According to NCES data, college costs in Iowa are about average compared to the rest of the country. In-state students pay $10,121 in average annual tuition and fees, while out-of-state students pay $29,072 (2022–2023, adjusted to 2026 dollars).
5 Fast-Growing Jobs in Iowa
The fastest-growing jobs in Iowa are split between healthcare and technology. The Department of Labor projects the highest growth for nurse practitioners (52.9%) from 2022-2032, while medical and health services managers will have the most new openings (8,350).
| Job | Projected Growth, Iowa (2022-2032) | Median Annual Wage, Iowa, May 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse Practitioner | 52.9% | $129,420 |
| Data Scientists | 37.3% | $97,980 |
| Physical Therapist Assistants | 36.5% | $60,720 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 34.7% | $100,750 |
| Information Security Analysts | 33.6% | $112,950 |
Degrees to Consider to Prepare for Iowa's Job Market
Some degrees may lead to high-demand careers in Iowa over the next decade. The following options can help you find jobs faster after graduation and stay employed long term.
Nursing
There are multiple paths to becoming a nurse practitioner. The most common is earning a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), followed by a master of science in nursing (MSN) or doctor of nursing practice (DNP), along with national certification and state licensure.
Another option is to become a registered nurse with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) and then complete an RN-to-MSN or RN-to-DNP bridge program, which includes additional undergraduate and graduate coursework.
STEM
Careers in data science and information security offer flexibility in choosing which degree to pursue. For example, data scientists may hold bachelor's, master's, or Ph.D. degrees in fields like data science, computer science, statistics, or analytics.
A bachelor's in cybersecurity or information security is the most direct path to becoming an information security analyst. You can also qualify with a degree in computer science or information technology. For advancement or specialization, consider a master's in cybersecurity or information assurance.
Healthcare Administration
Medical and health services managers typically earn degrees in healthcare or business administration, such as a bachelor's in healthcare administration, health management, or business. Higher-level roles may require a master's in healthcare administration or a master's of business administration with a healthcare focus.
What Is the Cost of College in Iowa?
Iowa students attending in-state, public four-year schools paid an average of $10,121, while out-of-state students paid $29,072 (2022–2023, adjusted to 2026 dollars). Students at private four-year colleges paid an average of $37,623. However, online degree programs typically cost less than on-campus programs, so your education may be cheaper as an online student.
| Institution Type | Average Tuition & Required Fees in Iowa (adjusted to 2026 dollars) | Average Tuition & Required Fees in the U.S. (adjusted to 2026 dollars) |
|---|---|---|
| Public Four-Year (In-State) | $10,121 | $10,443 |
| Public Four-Year (Out-of-State) | $29,072 | $30,307 |
| Private Four-Year | $37,623 | $35,248 |
Scholarships and Cost Savings for Online Colleges in Iowa
Robert D. Blue Scholarship
The Robert D. Blue Scholarships awards scholarships between $500-$1,000 to Iowa residents who attend or plan to attend an Iowa-based school. You must submit GPA information, reference letters, and a 500-word essay. The application deadline is mid-May.
Brian Pearson Memorial Scholarship
The Brian Pearson Memorial Scholarship awards two $1,000 scholarships to athletes who participate in the Iowa Games. Additional criteria include academic achievement, athletic accomplishments, and school and community volunteer service. Applications are due in early April.
Iowa National Guard Service Scholarship
The Iowa National Guard Service Scholarship helps Iowa residents pay for a degree or certificate at an approved Iowa school. You must be an active National Guard member while receiving the scholarship and submit the FAFSA. For 2024–2025, the maximum award is $9,034.
Greater Iowa Credit Union Project Scholar
Greater Iowa Credit Union offers the Project Scholar scholarship for Iowa high school seniors. Six $1,000 scholarships are available each spring, with a late March deadline. Applicants must be Iowa residents planning to attend college or a career-training program full-time and must complete a required financial education course.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Iowa
While there are no fully online-only four-year colleges in Iowa, at least 27 schools offer fully online programs. These include Morningside University, Simpson College, and Buena Vista University, where most undergraduate or graduate students are enrolled in online programs.
