Overview
Founded in 1876 as the Iowa State Normal School, the University of Northern Iowa has evolved from a teacher training institution into a comprehensive public university while retaining its strong reputation in education preparation. Located in Cedar Falls, UNI is known for its College of Education and consistently ranks among the top producers of teachers in the Midwest. The university has expanded to offer strong programs in business, the arts, and sciences while maintaining smaller class sizes than many public universities.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Cedar Falls, Iowa |
| Founded | 1876 |
| Total students | 8,500 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 15:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 85% |
| Graduation rate | 65% |
| Average starting salary | $45,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $9,300 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $19,900 |
| Room & board | $10,200 |
| Average financial aid | $9,800 |
| Students receiving aid | 88% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 960-1210 |
| ACT range | 19-25 |
| Average GPA | 3.45 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Elementary Education
- Business Administration
- Communication
- Music
- Social Work
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.