At A Glance
About Upper Iowa University
Founded in 1857, Upper Iowa University is a private, nonprofit institution dedicated to offering undergraduate and graduate degree programs to approximately 7,100 students each year. Located in Fayette, Iowa, the university extends its reach beyond its main campus to educational centers across the U.S., demonstrating its role as a recognized innovator in providing accredited, affordable, and quality academic programs. Upper Iowa University prides itself on its flexible, multiple delivery systems, which include online and self-paced degree options, catering to the varied needs of its student body.
With a focus on developing leaders and lifelong learners, Upper Iowa University is committed to empowering students by providing an inclusive, supportive learning environment. Here, diverse perspectives are valued, and academic excellence is not just a goal but a standard. This approach ensures that graduates are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to their communities and professions.
UIU At a Glance
Note: Unless specifically stated otherwise, data provided are for the entire University as of the official Census Day. Source of data: IPEDs, UIU’s offices – Alumni, Student Affairs, Enrollment Management, Academic Affairs & Institutional Effectiveness, and Registrar.
Leadership
- President
- Kathy Franken
- Board of Trustees Chair
- Peter Clemens
- University Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Number of Academic Schools
- 1
Enrollment (12-month, July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025)
- Undergraduate Students
- 5,595
- Graduate Students
- 1,520
- TOTAL
- 7,115
Undergraduate Enrollment 2025 (Fall Headcount)
- Fayette Campus
- 477
- US center locations
- 1011
- Online
- 396
- Self-Paced
- 130
- Special Programs
- 1,915
- TOTAL
- 3,929
Graduate Enrollment 2025 (Fall Headcount)
- Fayette Campus
- 40
- US center locations
- 126
- Online
- 528
- Special Programs
- 313
- TOTAL
- 1,007
Student Demographics Fall 2025
- Women
- 53%
- Men
- 47%
- Students of color (Domestic students)
- 25%
- Undergraduate students age 25+
- 67%
- Average age of full-time students (graduate & undergraduate)
- 32
- Military Domestic Students
- 10%
Locations
- Residential campuses
- 1
- US centers (excludes Fayette Campus)
- 11
Degree Programs
- Associate degree programs offered
- 4
- Bachelor’s degree programs offered
- 40
- Master’s degree programs offered
- 6
Degrees Awarded (2023–2024)
- Associate degree
- 93
- Bachelor’s degree
- 676
- Master’s degree
- 242
Faculty
- Full-time faculty
- 41
- Part-time faculty
- 134
- Student-to-faculty ratio (university wide)
- 32:1
Outcomes
Retention Rate
- First-time, full-time bachelor’s degree seeking students (IPEDS Fall 2025)
- 65%
Graduation Rate
- 6-year graduation rate
- 42%
Post-Graduation (Alumni Office Database)
- UIU graduates employed or continuing their education within 12 months of graduation
- 93%[1]
Additional Resources
- Time retention rates, graduation rates, degrees granted, bachelor’s degrees granted, and master’s degrees granted (PDF download)
- Career outcomes
- UIU history
Community Links
Sources
- ^ 2024-25 Graduate Survey/Application
Updated March 2026
