What can Upper Iowa University offer you? Everything. Whether you are looking for an educational center near your home offering evening and weekend classes, or global access to online and independent study courses, we've got it.  Founded in 1857, Upper Iowa University is a private, not-for-profit university providing degree programs and leadership development opportunities to nearly 7,000 students—nationally and internationally. Upper Iowa University is a recognized innovator in offering accredited, quality programs through flexible, multiple delivery systems.

What sets UIU apart?

Classroom Flexibility
Our educational centers offer evening and weekend classes at locations in Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, Louisiana, and Oklahoma.

Distance Learning Flexibility
We offer two distance learning programs to help you meet your educational goals regardless of location. 

The Independent Study Program started in 1973 and was one of the first of its kind in the nation. The program offers independent study distance learning courses, structured around written assignments and proctored exams. The program features open enrollment so you may enroll in a course at any time and take up to six-months to complete your course.

The Online Program offers asynchronous courses so that you can attend class anytime during the day that fits your schedule.  You will actively and substantively participate in discussions on course topics that enhance your learning.  The Online Program offers six eight-week terms each year so that you never need to wait more than two months to start classes.

Affordable
Our tuition is competitive, making UIU an affordable choice for your college education.

Transfer Credits
You can transfer up to 78 credits from an accredited two-year college or up to 90 credits from a four-year college when you join Upper Iowa as an undergraduate.  Up to 12 graduate credits from a regionally accredited college may be accepted towards a graduate degree.

Credit for Your Experience
We value your experience. You can earn credit for training you have completed through law enforcement, fire science, military and other formal training. We also offer the option to earn transfer credits for your experience through an experiential learning portfolio process. We will help you make the most of what you have already accomplished.

Unique balance of learning
Undergraduate students can take one or two full-credit courses during six eight-week terms each year.

Academics
Offer undergraduate degrees with 17 majors to choose from. Offer three graduate degrees.

Military-Friendly
Member of Post 9/11 GI Bill's Yellow Ribbon Program and works closely with Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges, GoArmyEd, the Navy College Program Distance Learning Program, the Army National Guard Education Support Program, the Coast Guard Institute, and the Air Force AU ABC program. UIU offers credit for military training, military spouse scholarship opportunities, and tuition discounts for the Total Military Family.

Diversity
Upper Iowa University celebrates 21 percent diversity among its student population.

Accreditation and Certification