University of Northern Iowa

The University of Northern Iowa (UNI) is a public university founded in 1876 as the Iowa State Normal School. It became a university in 1967 and is the smallest of the three public universities in the Iowa Board of Regents system.

UNI is recognized for its teacher education programs, business programs, and liberal arts focus. The university emphasizes accessible, high-quality undergraduate education and is considered a student-centered institution.

The university's smaller size provides students with more direct access to faculty, smaller class sizes, and a close-knit campus community.

Primary Campus: Cedar Falls, Iowa

Cedar Falls is located in northeastern Iowa and is adjacent to the city of Waterloo. Together, Cedar Falls and Waterloo form the Cedar Valley metropolitan area.

The campus is approximately 100 miles northeast of Des Moines and 65 miles from Iowa City. The Eastern Iowa Airport in Cedar Rapids provides regional air connections.

The University of Northern Iowa offers programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels through five colleges:

• College of Business Administration
• College of Education
• College of Humanities, Arts and Sciences
• College of Social and Behavioral Sciences
• Graduate College

Degree levels include bachelor's and master's degrees, with doctoral programs available in select fields. Specific program availability should be confirmed directly with the university.

UNI is considered an accessible institution with admission requirements that evaluate academic performance in high school and standardized test scores where applicable.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and meet financial documentation requirements for student visa purposes.

Official Admissions: uni.edu/admissions

As a public institution, the University of Northern Iowa charges different tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state/international students. UNI's tuition is generally lower than the other Iowa Board of Regents institutions:

Tuition and fees change annually. Students must verify current rates directly with the university. UNI Tuition Information

UNI offers institutional merit scholarships, need-based financial aid, work-study opportunities, and student loan options. The university's relative affordability makes it an accessible option for students seeking lower-cost public education in Iowa.

Graduate assistantships are available in select departments, providing tuition support and stipends for qualifying students.

Financial Aid Office: uni.edu/financialaid

UNI enrolls international students and provides support through its International Programs office. Services include visa documentation support, international student orientation, and cultural programming.

English language proficiency documentation is required for international applicants. The university may offer conditional admission pathways for students working to meet English requirements.

International Programs: uni.edu/international

The University of Northern Iowa is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Individual programs hold specialized accreditations from relevant bodies, including AACSB for the College of Business Administration and NCATE/CAEP for education programs.

Accreditation details: UNI Accreditation