The community college system in Iowa is a collective of small to large schools across the state. You can readily find community colleges in Iowa Falls, Creston, Waterloo, Calmar, Sioux City, Fort Dodge and beyond. Community colleges are public schools that primary focus on undergraduate degree programs and certificate programs. With a lower rate of tuition than private schools, community colleges also have a guaranteed admissions policy. This means that all qualifying students can apply and study at community colleges in the state to advance their body of knowledge, leveraging education to advance their vocational aspirations.

2024 Best Community Colleges in Iowa

Northwest Iowa Community College was recently named one of the top community colleges in 2012. Located in Sheldon, Iowa, the school provides the first step toward realizing post-secondary educational goals: programs of certification with a fast-track to the marketplace and associate degrees for students desiring to transfer to four-year colleges or universities following graduation. NCC offers traditional classes, of course, but in the spirit of educational flexibility and innovation, they also provide online classes to accommodate students with scheduling or proximity challenges.

NCC students study hard, but they also know when it’s time to put down the books and play hard. The school offers an array of student clubs and organizations. From Crafter’s Anonymous and Rodeo Club to Phi Beta Kappa and Student Nursing Association, there’s something for everyone! The school’s state-of-the-art recreational facility is a particular matter of pride, providing students with seemingly endless fitness possibilities: Pilates, yoga, indoor cycling, and the opportunity to work out with certified personal trainers, to name just a few high points.

In an age when college expenses have soared out of control, you’ll be happy to hear that NCC tuition rates are affordable. Also, financial assistance is available in the form of scholarships, loans, and financial aid, which is awarded to qualifying students. Admission is open to students with a high school diploma or GED. For more information, contact the NCC admissions office.

Enrollment

1,747

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Iowa Lakes Community College is a public two year institution founded in 1967 and is located in Estherville, Iowa. The school is fully accredited and provides education opportunities for residents within its service area. The school serves the counties of Algona, Emmetsburg, Estherville, Spencer and Spirit Lake, which constitutes over 79,000 Iowa residents. Students may attend part or full time, and take day, night or weekend courses in order to create flexible scheduling options for individuals.

Academics

Iowa Lakes Community College offers a number of programs that allow for academic transfer or career training opportunities. Academic transfer programs allow students to pursue higher education opportunities by first completing the freshman and sophomore years of a four year education, followed by applying for transfer to a four year institution to complete their education. Career training programs allow students to pursue an education in a given field or industry for the purpose of entering the workforce as a qualified professional. Programs take between one and two years to complete and result in a certificate or degree upon completion.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

Iowa Lakes Community College is an open enrollment institution that allows any individual to enroll as long as they are a high school graduate or are eighteen years of age or older. Students must complete the admissions application, pay all fees, and supply previous transcripts and test scores. Students should participate in orientation and meet with a counselor prior to registration. Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships awarded based on need as determined by the information provided by the student's Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Enrollment

2,051

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

“Smart Decision.Smart Start.” These words describe a Southwestern Community College education. Today’s savvy young people recognize good quality when they see it. With an enrollment of only 1468 students, SWCC is a school where students can get a high-quality education in an intimate environment. Offering two-year educational programs in a variety of fields and continuing education in many areas, Southwestern is meeting the needs and exceeding the expectations of their students and shareholders. With their finger on the pulse of the community, SCC offers continuing education. Its SWCC@night for adults is an evening program designed to meet the needs of mature learners’ busy lives and schedules.

While the college offers solid instruction and pedagogy, the school realizes that learners need to take breaks from study to recharge their brains, get to know new friends, and renew themselves. SWCC has clubs and activities to meet various tastes and offers an abundance of sporting activities for student participation: cross country, volleyball, soccer, and more.

Extremely affordable tuition rates make an SWCC education one of the sweetest deals going. With its intimate campus and great tuition rates, SWCC is an attractive place to start down the path to your successful future. Call the admissions office for details on admission requirements.

Enrollment

1,547

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Northeast Iowa Community College was founded in Calmar, Iowa in 1966.  Originally known as Northeast Iowa Technical Institute, the school became a community college in 1988. When the college first opened it served 170 students, currently the school services of 5000. NICC Calmar operates several campuses and learning centers which can be found in Dubuque, Cresco, Manchester Regional Education Partnership, Oelwein, Town Clock Center and Waukon. Additionally, NICC Calmar has made agreements with many 4 year institutions ensure that students' credits will transfer.

Academics

NICC offers associate degrees, diplomas and certificates for students pursuing career or transfer to a four year institution. The school has many vocational programs as well as offering GED services and distance learning opportunities. NICC offers a quality education for a reasonable price to meet the needs of the community.

Programs offered include:

  • Business Administration
  • Carpentry
  • Cosmetology
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Massage Therapy
  • Radiologic Technology

Admissions and Financial Aid

Students interested in enrolling at NICC Calmar should complete the online application and visit the school on one of its “Welcome Wednesday Visit Days” or schedule an appointment for a visit at one of the desired campuses. Students will also need to supply the school with high school and/or college transcripts, placement test scores and ACT/SAT test scores (If Applicable). Students interested in receiving financial aid should contact the financial aid office and request more information.

Enrollment

4,449

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

About
Western Iowa Tech Community College, located in Sioux City, Iowa, was founded in 1966 and first received its accreditation in 1977. The school is a comprehensive community college operating five campuses in northwest Iowa, specifically in Sioux City (The main campus), Mapleton, LeMars, Cherokee and Denison, all of which operate in order to provide coverage and opportunities for residents of the school's service area. The school is also one of the few two year institutions to provide student housing options, specifically two halls that combined allow for the housing of 300 students. The school is dedicated to providing the best education possible for its current and future students through modern programs and facilities that are under constant review and revision.

Academics
Western Iowa Tech Community College offers a variety programs designed to provide academic and career opportunities for enrolled students. Academic transfer programs allow students to complete the freshman and sophomore years of a four year education, followed by applying for transfer to a four year institution in order to finish their final two years and earn a bachelor's degree in one's desired field. Transfer to public Iowa institutions is made easier through agreements in place that guarantee admission to students that meet specific academic requirements. Transfer to out of state or private institutions will have varying requirements, and students desiring to do so should meet with a counselor to discuss curriculum and options.

Career and technical programs provide an education in a specific area of study with the purpose of providing skill and ability development for entry into the workforce as a professional. Students will have a mix of traditional courses and practical courses, with practical courses simulating real world environments to assist in the perfection of skills and methods often used in one's chosen field. Programs take between one and two years to complete and result in a certificate or degree that demonstrates competency and assists in the obtaining of entry level employment.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid
Western Iowa Tech Community College is an open enrollment institution that allows any individual to enroll by supplying an application for admission and paying associated fees. Individuals should be at least eighteen years of age or older or have a high school diploma or equivalent. Students should supply transcripts and standardized test scores if available, and may be asked to take a placement exam prior to registration. Students are encouraged to participate in orientation and to meet with a counselor to discuss goals, program enrollment and curriculum.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the information from which is used by the school to determine need and aid program eligibility for the student. Financial aid must be reapplied for prior to each academic year.

Enrollment

5,674

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Allen Community College, located in Iola, Kansas, was founded in 1923 and was originally known as Iola Junior College. The school served the city of Iola until 1965 when a community college district was established for the school, expanding its service area and changing its name to Allen County Community Junior College. The name was again changed in 1980 to Allen Country Community College to better reflect the changing role of the school and its service to the community. Recently the school again shortened its name to the current, to reflect its growth and expansion over the years, including the addition of a new campus and programs.

Academics

Students at Allen Community College will be able to choose from academic transfer and career training programs. Academic transfer programs allow for the completion of a curriculum that mirrors the first two years of a four year education. Upon completion students will apply to four year institutions to continue their education and eventually earn a bachelor's degree. Career programs allow students to pursue education and training in one of several high demand fields with the purpose of entering the workforce as a professional upon completion. Programs take between one and two years to complete and result in a degree or certificate.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

Allen Community College is an open enrollment institution that admits any individuals that are at least eighteen years of age or have a high school diploma, submit an application, and pay all related fees. Students are asked to provide any previous transcripts and test scores and may be required to take a placement exam prior to registration. Participation in new student orientation and meeting with a counselor are also encouraged. Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships which are awarded based on need a determined by the information provided by students on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Enrollment

2,540

Student to Faculty Ratio

22:1

Indian Hills Community College is a two-year community college in southeast Iowa with locations in Ottumwa and Centerville.  Each location offers both associate degrees and certification programs. The college’s aim is to help students develop academically and personally, and their well-rounded educational program is designed to help them develop the skills and abilities that will help them be successful in life. Although course offerings include an array of options, the school is particularly proud of its Culinary Arts and Criminal Justice programs.

Not all students are able to spend several years on campus learning in the brick and mortar classroom setting. That’s why Indian Hills also offers online courses as a complement to their traditional fare. And when it’s time to close the books, students at IHCC can participate in extracurricular activities such as intramural sports, student clubs, and performing arts, to name a few.

Smart students know that a quality education doesn’t have to tie them to years of student loan repayment. If you do a little research on paying for college these days, you will realize that an IHCC education is both a fantastic value and a smart choice. Students holding a high school diploma or GED are eligible to apply for admission to IHCC. Contact the admissions office for more information, and make plans to attend Indian Hills. Your successful future is waiting!

Enrollment

3,918

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Three community colleges make up the Eastern Iowa Community College District: Clinton Community College in Clinton; Scott Community College in Bettendorf; and Muscatine Community College in Muscatine. The schools also offer classes at five technology centers throughout the district. EICC’s accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission is proof that they are committed to academic excellence in education. They offer a broad palette of educational choices from associate degree programs to professional re-licensure courses and senior citizen programs, showing their commitment higher education and the local community.  Degree-seeking students can find programs concentrating on business, legal concerns, health services, and technology, to name a few.

College students make a lot of sacrifices in order to put in the study time necessary to achieve success. But when study time is over, they want excitement, entertainment, and good friends to share them with! EICC schools offer a plethora of extracurricular clubs and activities. Log on to the schools’ web sites to check out the fun.

In today’s economy, people want to be assured they are getting the best value for their money. EICC understands this concern and has managed to keep tuition costs low. To help defray costs, EICC offers scholarships based on special interests, academic achievement, and need; grants; work study; and student loans. EICC’s commitment to excellence, their extracurricular activities, and their affordable tuition make starting your future at EICC an attractive and smart choice.

Enrollment

7,771

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Central Iowa Community College, located in Fort Dodge, Iowa, began operations in 1966 as a merge of 9 school districts in order to form a community college. Prior to its formation three area junior colleges provided educational opportunities to the various counties, each operated by the local school district. In 1971 a fourth location was added in Storm Lake, which at first offered career training but has since expanded into offering full community college programs. The school also has an agreement in place with Buena Vista College to allow students to pursue a bachelor's degree. Students on this track will complete the first two years of their education at Central Iowa Community College, then complete the last two years at Buena Vista College.

Academics

As with most community colleges, Central Iowa Community College provides a large number of programs that assist in the development of career and technical skills, or allow students to begin their academic education in a low cost two year transfer program. Career and technical programs provide the skills and experience necessary to enter the workforce as professionals capable of completing tasks and duties required of entry level employees in their field of study. Academic programs allow students to complete the first two years of a four year education then apply for transfer to another school in order to complete their bachelor's degree. Noncredit courses are also available to individuals who wish to return to school, or simply want to explore their interests in a classroom setting.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

Central Iowa Community College is an open enrollment institution, and as such has the barest minimum in regards to student enrollment requirement. Students interested in enrollment must complete the application and submit all pertinent test scores and transcripts. Some students may need to take a placement exam to determine which general education course levels they will begin with. If all requirements are met, students will be eligible for registration at the start of the subsequent semester.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans and grants. Students in need of aid must obtain a Federal PIN number then complete and submit a copy of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The school will receive information regarding one's financial status, and may in turn request additional documentation in order to make a determination on need, eligibility and awards.

Athletics

Central Iowa Community College participates in a number of intercollegiate athletics through the National Junior College Athletic Association and the Iowa Community College Athletic Conference. Athletic provides students with a variety of skills, including discipline and teamwork, which is beneficial for academic and professional success.  The school's Mascot is the Triton.

Athletic programs offered:

  • Basketball
  • Bowling
  • Cross Country
  • Golf
  • Marching Band
  • Rodeo
  • Soccer
  • Swimming
  • Track and Field
  • Baseball (Men Only)
  • Football (Men Only)
  • Wrestling (Men Only)
  • Softball (Women Only)
  • Volleyball (Women Only)
  • Cheer Squad (Women Only)

Enrollment

5,390

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

About
Kirkwood Community College, located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was founded in 1966 through the support of the community and the need for higher education in the area. Today the school serves seven counties and maintains a large student enrollment through its multiple campuses, which include locations in Iowa City, Belle Plaine, Marion, Monticello, Vinton, Washington,Williamsburg and Tipton. The school is named after Samuel J. Kirkwood, who was governor of Iowa during the Civil War and an abolitionist. The school offers career and transfer programs alongside continuing education and adult education programs to ensure that community needs are met.

Academics
Students at Kirkwood Community College may choose from programs that allow for assist in workforce development through training in a high demand field academic transfer to pursue higher levels of education. Workforce development assists in local job growth by providing career training programs that are aimed at providing skill development and education for the purpose of entering the workforce as a professional upon completion. Courses are often offered through a mix of traditional classroom and practical settings, providing theory as well as practice in regards to the types of activities and skills necessary in order to be considered for employment. Practical courses are supervised by experienced industry professionals. Programs typically take two years to complete, and upon completion give students a certificate or degree that demonstrates competency and assists in the procurement of employment by bolstering employer conference.

Academic transfer is accomplished through a two year program that mirrors the course of study and curriculum a student pursuing a bachelor's degree would take, after which the student will apply to a four year college or university, and if accepted, enter as a junior in order to complete the final two years of their education and earn a bachelor's degree. Students who apply to a public college or university in the state of Iowa will find the requirements for transfer eased through agreements in place, facilitating the intrastate admissions process. Transfer to out of state or private institutions will have separate requirements that should be discussed with a counselor in order to develop an appropriate curriculum.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid
Kirkwood Community College is a public, two year open enrollment institution that is dedicated to providing postsecondary educational opportunities for all interested residents in its service area, and as such any individuals who wish to enroll may do so by completing an application for admission and paying all accrued fees, as well as provide any previous transcripts and standardized test scores if available. Students may be required to take a placement exam prior to registration, and are also encouraged to meet with a counselor and participate in orientation prior to their first semester.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the information provided within which will be used by the school to determine the extent of one's needs and aid program eligibility when constructing his or her aid packet. Financial aid must be reapplied for every year and should be applied for prior to any posted deadlines to ensure funds are disbursed in a timely manner.

Athletics
The Kirkwood Community College Eagles participate in intercollegiate athletics through the Iowa Community College Athletic Conference (ICCAC) and the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA). Athletic programs provide an excellent forum for students to excel outside of the classroom while learning valuable skills such as leaderships, discipline and teamwork. Student who wish to participate must maintain a minimum passing GPA and must be ready to invest time outside of their normal school schedule for practices. Interested students should complete the form necessary to begin the tryout and participation process.

Athletic programs offered:

  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Volleyball
  • Softball
  • Golf

Enrollment

13,906

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Marshalltown Community College, located in Marshalltown, Iowa, was founded in 1927 when it was known as Marshalltown Junior College. Originally operating within the Marshalltown Community School District, the school was given its own district in 1966 known as the Iowa Valley Community College District, which better represents the area and communities served by the school and includes two other community colleges. Unlike most two year institutions, the school offers on campus housing through 48 apartments split between two buildings. The school also has an active campus life through clubs, organizations and athletics, both intercollegiate and intramural.

Academics

MCC offers a variety of programs aimed at transfer or career development. Students are able to enroll in programs dedicated to assisting in the transfer to four year institutions by completing the first two years of a bachelor's degree. Once completed students will apply to a college or university to complete the final two years at their desired school, transferring earned credits as part of the process. Career programs allow students to develop the skills and abilities necessary to enter the workforce as qualified professionals in their chosen field. Programs take up to two years to complete and result in a certificate or degree that demonstrates competency in the field.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

Students interested in enrollment at MCC may do so by submitting an application for admission, registering for classes and paying all accrued fees. Students should also supply transcripts and test scores, and may be required to take a placement exam prior to registration. Students are also encouraged to meet with a counselor to discuss future plans, program enrollment and curriculum.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants, and scholarships. Aid is applied for through the submission of a completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the information from which will be used by the school to determine aid program eligibility and financial need for the given student. Aid must be reapplied for prior to each academic year.

Enrollment

1,931

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Southeastern Community College is an educational institution with roots deep in the local community.  With campuses in Burlington, Ft. Madison, and Keokuk, Iowa, SCC is educating Iowa! Offering a broad range of programs from TV Animation and Film to Welding and Graphic Communications, SCC is a great school for students seeking job certification or those wishing to earn an associate degree and transfer to a baccalaureate institution following graduation. Of course, Southeastern students invest a good deal of time in the pursuit of knowledge. But everyone knows that well-rounded students do more than study. In order to keep their mental faculties sharp and primed, they need rest and recreation! SCC students interested in joining a campus club will be pleased with the cultural, academic, artistic, and social groups available to them. Southeastern’s in-state and out-of-state tuition rates are extremely attractive, running literally thousands of dollars below U.S. college and university national averages.  Students who want a high-dollar education at a very attractive price will find SCC the smart choice. Those who need financial assistance can apply for financial aid and/or take advantage of Southeastern’s many scholarships.

Enrollment

2,548

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) is a two-year community college in Central Iowa. DMACC offers transfer study programs for students wishing to transfer to a four-year university or college to complete a bachelor's degree. DMACC grants associates degrees and professional certificates in more than 130 programs. Students can receive a professional certificate from the reputable Iowa Culinary Institute or the Electronic Crime Institute.

DMACC offers a PreProfessional Program, to prepare students for advanced studies in medicine, law, engineering, business or education.  Online classes are offered through the DMACC Signature Series. There are 8-week evening programs, continuing education programs, high school programs, study abroad programs, and more at DMACC.

History

DMACC was founded in 1966. It got its official name in 1968,when its first classes were held.

Academics

The academic calendar for Des Moines Area Community College follows the semester format, with fall, spring and summer "terms." Each term is broken up into several shorter sessions.

Colleges and Schools

The academic units for DMACC are divided into departments and programs, rather than into colleges or schools. Departments at DMACC range from subject areas such as Architectural Technologies to Welding.

Student Life

Students at Des Moines Area Community College's Ankeny Campus can choose from several pre-professional and special interest clubs and organizations outside the classroom. Student clubs available at the Ankeny Campus include a range of interests, including Agribusiness, Concert Choir, Environmental Conservation Club, Horticulture, Game Renegades, Veteran's Club, and more.

Student services at DMACC include:

  • Academic Achievement Center
  • Advising
  • Alumni Association
  • Campus Health
  • Campus Recreation
  • Career Center
  • Career & Transfer Resource Center
  • Child Care - Ankeny
  • Counseling
  • Disability Services Office
  • Distance Learning Program
  • Evening Weekend College
  • Food Services
  • Financial Aid
  • Health Services
  • Honor Society - Phi Theta Kappa
  • Housing
  • Information Center
  • International Student Office
  • Library
  • Ombudsperson
  • Student Activities Council - Ankeny
  • Study Abroad Program

Traditions

The school colors for Des Moines Area Community College are blue and white. The DMACC mascot is the bear, and the athletic teams are nicknamed the DMACC "Bears."

Athletics

The DMACC Athletics Program is located on the college's Boone Campus, near Iowa State University in Ames. The DMACC "Bears" athletic teams compete in the Iowa Community College Athletic Conference and the National Junior College Athletic Association. DMACC sports include:

Men's Sports:

  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Cross Country
  • Golf
  • Volleyball

Women's Sports:

  • Basketball
  • Cross Country
  • Golf
  • Soccer
  • Softball
  • Volleyball
  • Dance Team

Satellite Campuses

DMACC has several campuses and learning sites, which include:

  • Ankeny Campus (Ankeny, IA)
  • Newton Campus (Newton, IA)
  • Boone Campus (Boone, IA)
  • Urban/Des Moines Campus (Des Moines, IA)
  • Carroll Campus (Carroll, IA)
  • West Campus (West Des Moines, IA)
  • Success Center (Des Moines, IA)
  • Transportation Institute (Des Moines, IA)
  • Career Academy/Hunziker Center (Ames, IA)
  • Harding Hills (Des Moines, IA)
  • Iowa Building (Des Moines, IA)

Community Life

DMACC offers several community partnership programs:

  • Distance or cross learning with other schools in Iowa
  • Business and industry training programs
  • Community education and workforce training

Enrollment

23,474

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Iowa Western Community College, located in Council Bluffs, Iowa, was founded in 1967, though planning for the school began in 1964. The school was established to meet the growing educational needs of the community, and its founding was authorized by seven counties. When determining where campuses should be located, the addition of Clarinda Junior College, founded in 1923 and known for its liberal arts curriculum, to the new school was approved, serving as one of the campuses with a new one to be built in Council Bluffs. Since its establishment the school has expanded, offering additional centers to its service area to maximize its offerings and services. Currently the school offers over eighty programs of study to a student body of over 5,500 annually.

Academics

Iowa Western Community College offers a large variety of career and technical programs as well as liberal arts programs aimed at academic transfer. Career and technical programs allow students to learn the skills and abilities for a particular field, preparing them for entry into the workforce as a professional. These programs are designed for students looking to sustain long term careers, and as a result provide theoretical and practical education, allowing students to implement methodologies and techniques learned in the classroom to real world settings through controlled environments. Programs take between one and two years to complete resulting in a certificate or diploma and allow the student to pursue a career starting at the entry level after graduation.

Academic transfer is achieved by completing the first two years of a bachelor's degree at IWCC, followed by applying to a college or university to transfer earned credits and complete the final two years of study. Every school has its own requirements for transfer and as a result it is recommended that students wishing to follow this track to meet with a counselor to discuss goals and develop a curriculum that best meets the transfer requirements of the student's desired school or schools.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

IWCC is an open enrollment institution that allows any student that wished to enroll to do so by meeting the minimum requirements for admission, submitting a completed application and paying all associated fees. Students should also provide transcripts and standardized test scores, and the absence of one or both may require the student to take a placement exam prior to registration. New students are encouraged to participate in orientation in order to familiarize themselves with the campus and policies, as well as to meet with a counselor to discuss goals, program enrollment and curriculum.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the information provided from which will be used by the financial aid office to determine a student's financial needs and aid program eligibility. Aid must be applied for prior to the start of each academic year and students may be chosen at random to provide additional information regarding their finances to be compared to their FAFSA in order to ensure its accuracy. This is due to new regulations by the federal government regarding the disbursement and acceptance of financial aid.

Enrollment

5,962

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Ellsworth Community College was founded in Iowa in 1890 as a private business academy. Over the years the school has seen many changes, including being coming a four years institution, music conservatory, and public junior college until it finally merged with the Iowa Valley Community College District.

ECC is the only Iowa Community College to rank in the top thirty by The Washington Monthly. The campus is situated along the Iowa River and is within walking distance of downtown Iowa Falls. The campus is scenic, a mix of historic and modern buildings and facilities surrounded by nature.

Academics

Ellsworth Community College offers career and transfer programs. Students choosing to transfer to a four year degree will pursue an associate's degree in the arts or sciences. Most of the programs at ECC are geared toward career educations. Students entering certificate or degree career programs will be prepared to work in their field of study once the program is completed.

Programs offered include:

Ellsworth Community College also offers online programs for those who require flexible schedules.

Admissions and Financial Aid

Enrollment at Ellsworth Community college requires the completion and submission of the application form alongside all necessary transcripts and relevant test scores (GED, ACT, SAT, COMPASS…). Student seeking financial aid should complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and visit the financial aid office regarding awards or eligibility.

Enrollment

796

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

About Hawkeye Community College, located in Waterloo, Iowa, was founded in 1966 when it was known as the Hawkeye Institute of Technology and established to replace the Waterloo Area Vocational School. The school became a community college in 1992, adding liberal arts and science courses, this resulted in a name change to the current the following year.

HCC's service area includes all or part of the counties of Benton, Black Hawk, Bremer, Buchanan, Butler, Chickasaw, Fayette, Floyd, Grundy and Tama. In order to ensure that the areas are properly covered, the school operates several centers located in Cedar Falls, Independence, Grundy County, Waverly and Waterloo.  
Academics Hawkeye Community College offers a variety programs designed to provide academic and career opportunities for enrolled students. Career and technical programs offer an education in a given field with the purpose of developing the skills and abilities necessary for entry into the workforce as a professional.

Students will participate in mix of traditional and practical courses, with practical courses simulating real world environments designed to assist in the perfection of skills and methods often used in one's chosen field. Programs take between one and two years to complete and result in a certificate or degree that demonstrates competency and assists in the obtaining of entry level employment.
Academic transfer programs allow students to complete the freshman and sophomore years of a four year education, after which transfer is achieved by applying to a four year institution in order to complete the final two years and earn a bachelor's degree.

Transfer to public Iowa institutions is made easier through agreements in place that guarantee admission to students that meet specific academic requirements. Transfer to out of state or private institutions will have varying requirements, and students desiring to do so should meet with a counselor to discuss curriculum and options.
Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid Hawkeye Community College is an open enrollment institution that allows any individual to enroll by supplying an application for admission and paying associated fees. Individuals should be at least eighteen years of age or older or have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Prospective Hawkeye students should supply transcripts and standardized test scores if available, and may be asked to take a placement exam prior to registration. Students are encouraged to participate in orientation and to meet with a counselor to discuss goals, program enrollment and curriculum.
Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the information from which is used by the school to determine need and aid program eligibility for the student. Financial aid must be reapplied for prior to each academic year.

Enrollment

5,263

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Finding the Best Community College in Iowa for You

If you are unsure where to start your search, take the time to check out Black Hawk College, Eastern Iowa Community College, Ellsworth Community College, and Northwest Iowa Community College. The information you gain from studying their profiles will help you narrow down your community college search regardless of where you decide to attend school. College-bound students that are unsure of a career path, it is not uncommon to earn an Associate of Arts (AA) and transfer to a 4-year college to complete their degrees in a designated field of study. On the other hand, many students know a career path in advance and take courses in a direct-entry degree program. Upon graduation, students will be ready to launch a career in a field they have been formally trained to perform. In both cases, a community college in Iowa may be a great starting point for many high school graduates and working professionals to get a leg-up in their career field of choice.

The following link may provide helpful information about community colleges in Iowa:

The following link may provide helpful information about community colleges in Iowa:

Community Colleges in Davenport, Moline, Rock Island

We have ranked the community colleges in the Davenport, Moline, and Rock Island area by the percent of students who either completed their degree or transferred to a 4-year institution. Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary in Davenport, IA ranked as the #1 community college in this area. Visit their official website at http://www.faith.edu

Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary Highlights
  • Serving students from Davenport and surrounding areas
  • 60% of students either graduated or transferred to a 4-year college/university
  • Tuition & fees are $18,200 per year
Top Community Colleges in Davenport, Moline, and Rock Island
Rate Institution Name Location Enrollment
60%Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological SeminaryDavenport, IA-
41%Blackburn CollegeMoline, IL1,000

Other Community Colleges in Iowa

The table below lists all the other community colleges in Iowa that do not belong to any large metropolitan or urban concentrated area. The table also displays the "Rate" column, which is the percent of students completing course work.

Rate Institution Name Location Enrollment
93%University of IowaCouncil Bluffs, IA32,000
91%University of Northern IowaMason City, IA11,000
78%Northwest Iowa Community CollegeCalmar, IA2,000
75%Iowa Lakes Community CollegeFort Dodge, IA2,000
67%Southwestern Community CollegeWest Burlington, IA2,000
56%Iowa Central Community CollegeOttumwa, IA5,000
37%William Penn UniversitySioux City, IA1,000
33%Mercy College of Health SciencesMarshalltown, IA1,000

The tuition information displayed is an estimate, which we calculated based on historical data and should be solely used for informational purposes only. Please contact the respective school for information about the current school year.

Source: IPEDS Survey 2012-2020: Data obtained from the US Dept. of Education's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Data may vary depending on school and academic year.

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