The online undergraduate programs at Upper Iowa University are once again ranked among the top online bachelor degree programs nationwide by U.S. News & World Report. The recognition also includes being ranked among the best online programs for veterans.
“UIU is honored that our online programs are continually recognized at the national level,” UIU President William R. Duffy II said. “We are especially proud that UIU has repeated as providing among the best online bachelor’s programs for veterans. UIU’s unwavering commitment to accessible higher education and lifelong learning ensures that all students attain an Education Built for Life and routinely achieve career success. On behalf of the Board of Trustees and administration, I would like to express our appreciation to the faculty and staff who make this possible through their work each day.”
UIU, a private, nonprofit university founded in 1857, provides undergraduate and graduate degree programs to about 5,800 students worldwide. In addition to a traditional campus in Fayette, Iowa, 21 U.S. locations, as well as Hong Kong, UIU provides maximum flexibility to undergraduate and graduate students through its online education. Students are offered more than 40 majors to choose from, and all utilize a unique, flexible course schedule. Each academic year consists of five 8-week sessions and one accelerated 6-week summer session, so Upper Iowa students typically take less classes at a time.
The vast majority of students enrolled in the ranked programs have earned at least some college credit. Rather than first-time college students, they are more likely to be working professionals in their 20s to 40s looking to advance in or change their careers.
The factors U.S. News selected to make comparisons between programs were not measures like high school class rank or standardized test scores. Instead, U.S. News chose factors that weigh how these programs are being delivered and their effectiveness at awarding affordable degrees in a reasonable amount of time.
To determine the 2019 rankings, schools were evaluated on their scores for student engagement, student services and technology, faculty credentials and training, and expert opinions of high-ranking peer academic officials.
In addition to the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings, UIU has been repeatedly named a “Best College” for various individual undergraduate and graduate programs by other industry analysts, ”Best for Vets” college by Military Times and a “Top School” by Military Advanced Education & Transition and Victory Media.
Additional information about UIU and its academic programs, can be viewed at uiu.edu.