Buena Vista University
Storm Lake, Iowa
About Buena Vista University
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1891, Buena Vista University is a 4-year college serving students in Storm Lake, Iowa. With a tradition of academic excellence, Buena Vista University prepares graduates for success in Education, Business, Public Administration, and more.
A Diverse Community in Storm Lake
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. Campus housing options foster community and connection among students. With a 13:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
Buena Vista University is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $14,583, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This need-aware policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.
Research That Shapes the World
Buena Vista University emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.
Outcomes for Buena Vista University students
| Graduation rate (within 6 years) | 62% |
|---|---|
| Graduation rate (within 4 years) | 54% |
| First-year retention rate | 76% |
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $46,276 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $49,156 |
| Median debt at graduation | $25,000 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at Buena Vista University
| Total enrollment | 1,264 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 810 |
| Graduate students | 454 |
| International students | 1% |
| First-generation students | 35% |
What you can study at Buena Vista University
92 programs, most of them in these fields:
Education (20)
Art Teacher Education, Biology Teacher Education, Chemistry Teacher Education, and more
Business Management Marketing Support (11)
Accounting, Banking and Financial Support Services, Business Administration and Management, General, and more
Visual and Performing Arts (11)
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects, Art/Art Studies, General, Commercial and Advertising Art, and more
Communication Journalism (8)
Communication Management and Strategic Communications, Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other, Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia, and more
Computer Information Sciences (5)
Artificial Intelligence, Computer and Information Sciences, Other, Computer Science, and more
Agriculture (4)
Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations, Agriculture, General, Animal Sciences, General, and more
Multi Interdisciplinary Studies (4)
Biological and Physical Sciences, General Studies, Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General, and more
Social Sciences (4)
Political Science and Government, General, Political Science and Government, Other, Public Administration, and more
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