Best Certificate Programs in Iowa

A certificate program in Iowa is the perfect way to get a career education without spending a lot of time and money. The goal of a certificate program is to increase your marketability and boost your resume by focusing on skills rather than academics.

Better job opportunities and higher salaries are the benefits of investing in your education. It is estimated that Iowa workers earn $39,070 per year on average. In general, the highest earners make about $81,660, whereas the lowest earners typically make $23,160 a year.

Find out more about Iowa certificate programs in the ranking below. There, you will find summaries from different schools regarding their certificate program offerings.

At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.

Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that is best for you.

This site is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Showing 30 schools

    Filter

    School Name


    Location


    Program


    Learning Format


    School Type


    Avg Tuition per YearTuition is the price you pay to attend classes. Tuition varies by school, and does not include costs associated with room and board, books, school supplies, meal plans, or transportation.

    $<1,000$100,000

    $<1,000 - $


    #1

    St Luke's College

    Sioux City, IA

    Graduation Rate

    100%

    Enrollment

    211

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $19440

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $19440

    From its campus in Sioux City, Iowa, St Luke's College enrolls students as a private institution. With both academic and technical programs, the school helps learners reach their career goals. The institution's degree and certificate programs offer coursework that prepares learners for a career in their field. Applicants may qualify for a waiver for standardized test scores. Flexible admission score requirements make it easier to enroll. The school supports learners with tutoring and career services. The school's average cost per credit is unknown. The accredited school qualifies for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. St Luke's College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    #2

    Allen College

    Waterloo, IA

    Graduation Rate

    Not Provided

    Enrollment

    678

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $17864

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $17864

    From its campus in Iowa, Allen College administers 36 total programs. Degree-seekers enroll in rigorous, top-ranked programs at the school. The school has a student-to-faculty ratio of 11-to-1. The average amount of aid awarded per student is not available. The graduation rate is unknown. Real-world experience helps candidates stand out on the job market. The school offers experiential learning in the form of internships, research opportunities, and practicums. The institution's admission rate is currently unknown. Some programs let applicants apply without submitting test scores.

    #3

    Drake University

    Des Moines, IA

    Graduation Rate

    78%

    Enrollment

    4,774

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $44188

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $44188

    A private institution, Drake University enrolls students on its campus in Des Moines, Iowa. With both academic and technical programs, the institution helps students reach their career goals. During a bachelor's degree, enrollees take lower-division and upper-division coursework. Undergraduates also complete general education credits. Upper-division courses emphasize advanced concepts in the major. Learners benefit from support services, which include tutoring and career counseling. The college charges an average of 733 per credit. Learners at the accredited institution qualify for federal aid programs, including the Pell Grant. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #4

    Northwest Iowa Community College

    Sheldon, IA

    Graduation Rate

    61%

    Enrollment

    1,666

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $5340

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $5640

    A public institution, Northwest Iowa Community College grants degrees and certificates from its campus in Sheldon, Iowa. Enrollees study with experts in many different fields. Students who complete a technical or academic program may enter the workforce. The amount students pay per credit is currently unknown. At the accredited school, students qualify for financial aid, including federal loans, scholarships, and grants. The institution reports that 89% of students receive aid, and 16% receive loans. The public school reports a 61% graduation rate. The institution's admission rate is currently unknown. Admissions advisors can provide more information about application requirements and start dates. Northwest Iowa Community College holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #5

    Northwestern College

    Orange City, IA

    Graduation Rate

    69%

    Enrollment

    1,496

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $32700

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $32700

    A private institution, Northwestern College enrolls students on its campus in Orange City, Iowa. With both academic and technical programs, this school can help learners reach their educational goals. The institution offers coursework that gives students the chance to build industry-specific knowledge. Applicants may qualify for a waiver for standardized test scores. Test-optional policies make it easier to apply. The school supports learners with tutoring and career services. The school's average cost per credit is unknown. Learners at the accredited school can pay for their educational costs with federal student aid programs. The school holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

    #6

    Emmaus Bible College

    Dubuque, IA

    Graduation Rate

    83%

    Enrollment

    194

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $19250

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $19250

    A top-ranked school, Emmaus Bible College enrolls learners in programs from its campus in Dubuque, Iowa. Degree-seekers take courses with experts in diverse disciplines. The school offers academic and technical tracks to help learners meet a variety of professional goals. Visit the program's website to find information on the typical timeline for completion. Applicants may qualify for a standardized test score waiver. Flexible admission score requirements make it easier to apply. The admissions department can provide more information on the process. Financial aid provides options for degree-seekers to pay for their education. Emmaus Bible College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #7

    Loras College

    Dubuque, IA

    Graduation Rate

    70%

    Enrollment

    1,404

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $33500

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $33500

    From its campus in Dubuque, Iowa, Loras College awards degrees and certificates as a private institution. Instructors bring expertise in their fields. The school offers academic and technical programs that prepare graduates for a successful career. Data on the school's average cost per credit is currently unavailable. At the accredited school, learners qualify for financial aid, including federal loans, scholarships, and grants. At the institution, 100% of students receive aid and 67% receive loans. The private institution reports a graduation rate of 70%. Hopeful learners can expect admission rates of 58%. Prospective students can contact an admission advisor to learn more about applying. Loras College holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

    #8

    Iowa State University

    Ames, IA

    Graduation Rate

    75%

    Enrollment

    31,822

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $8042

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $23230

    From its campus in Ames, Iowa, Iowa State University grants college degrees as a public institution. The school offers academic and technical programs to help learners reach their educational goals. During a bachelor's degree, enrollees take lower-division and upper-division coursework. Students also complete general education credits. Upper-division credits emphasize advanced concepts in the major. Learners benefit from support services, which include tutoring and career counseling. Data on the school's average cost per credit is unavailable. At the accredited institution, learners qualify for federal student aid programs, such as the Pell Grant. Iowa State University has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #9

    Simpson College

    Indianola, IA

    Graduation Rate

    71%

    Enrollment

    1,267

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $41466

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $41466

    A private institution, Simpson College educates students on its campus in Indianola, Iowa. With both academic and technical programs, the school helps learners reach their professional goals. Students prepare for a successful career by completing the program's coursework. Some programs may offer test-optional admission policies. The waiver makes it simpler to enroll. Enrollees receive support in the form of tutoring and career services. Information on the school's cost per credit is unavailable. The accredited school qualifies for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. Simpson College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    #10

    University of Iowa

    Iowa City, IA

    Graduation Rate

    72%

    Enrollment

    30,318

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $8073

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $30036

    A public institution, University of Iowa grants degrees from its campus in Iowa City, Iowa. With both academic and technical programs, the school helps students reach their professional goals. During a bachelor's degree, undergraduates take lower-division and upper-division coursework. Students also complete general education credits. In upper-division classes, undergraduates learn advanced concepts in their major. Learners receive support in the form of tutoring and career services. The college charges an average of 661 per credit. Learners at this accredited institution also qualify for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. University of Iowa is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    #11

    Mercy-St Luke's School of Radiologic Technology

    Cedar Rapids, IA

    Graduation Rate

    Not Provided

    Enrollment

    22

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $3750

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $3750

    Iowa-based Mercy-St Luke's School of Radiologic Technology offers 1 certificate programs. For students who need to earn a credential quickly, most certificate and diploma programs last weeks or months, rather than years. The credential programs at the school commonly attract students looking to advance their careers quickly. Students build new skills that may lead directly to better employment. The school has been accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. For specific information about Mercy-St Luke's School of Radiologic Technology's application process, students can contact the school's admissions department. After completing their program, students can purse their career.

    #12

    UnityPoint Health-Des Moines School of Radiologic Technology

    Des Moines, IA

    Graduation Rate

    Not Provided

    Enrollment

    15

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $3600

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $3600

    UnityPoint Health-Des Moines School of Radiologic Technology is a private school that operates a main campus in Iowa. Learners seeking a faster course of study can choose from 1 certificate programs at the school. The coursework teaches core topics and specialized training. The programs deliver rigorous curricula. Graduates seek opportunities in related fields after finishing a certificate. As an accredited school, students can receive federal financial aid. The school's admissions office is available to field any questions about the application process. The school holds accreditation from the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology.

    #13

    Maharishi International University

    Fairfield, IA

    Graduation Rate

    43%

    Enrollment

    2,015

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $16000

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $16000

    Maharishi International University, a private organization located in Fairfield, Iowa, offers multiple programs. Enrollees earn an accredited degree that prepares them for the workforce. Learners benefit from academically rigorous programs at an affordable price. The school boasts several programs that appear in national rankings. Data on the school's average cost per credit is currently unavailable. Degree-seekers attending the accredited institution may qualify for federal financial aid programs, such as the Pell Grant. The institution offers both academic and technical programs. Depending on their major, students complete foundational courses, technical classes, and general education requirements. Maharishi International University has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #14

    Upper Iowa University

    Fayette, IA

    Graduation Rate

    27%

    Enrollment

    3,610

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $31950

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $31950

    A private institution, Upper Iowa University grants degrees from its campus in Fayette, Iowa. With both academic and technical programs, the college helps learners reach their educational goals. Students prepare for a successful career by completing the program's coursework. Depending on the program, applicants may need to submit test scores. Applicants may find it easier to enroll without a test score requirement. The school supports learners with academic help and career services. Data on the school's average cost per credit is currently unavailable. Learners at the accredited school qualify for federal student aid programs. Upper Iowa University has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    #15

    North Iowa Area Community College

    Mason City, IA

    Graduation Rate

    52%

    Enrollment

    2,681

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $4973

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $7459

    Located in Mason City, Iowa, North Iowa Area Community College awards degrees and certificates as a public institution. The institution's faculty brings expertise in multiple fields. The school offers academic and technical programs that prepare graduates for a successful career. The amount students pay per credit on average is unknown. The accredited institution meets the requirements for federal financial aid programs, including the Pell Grant. The institution reports that 96% of students receive aid, and 28% receive loans. The school reports a graduation rate of 52%. The school's admission rate is unknown at this time. Contact the admissions department for more details about application requirements. North Iowa Area Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    #16

    Hamilton Technical College

    Davenport, IA

    Graduation Rate

    70%

    Enrollment

    120

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $14250

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $14250

    A private institution, Hamilton Technical College enrolls students on its campus in Davenport, Iowa. With both academic and technical programs, the school helps learners reach their professional goals. Students complete coursework to prepare them for advanced roles. Depending on the program, applicants may need to submit standardized test scores. Students may find it easier to apply without a test score requirement. Learners receive support in the form of tutoring and career services. The amount students pay per credit on average is currently unknown. Learners at the accredited school qualify for federal student aid programs. Hamilton Technical College holds accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.

    #17

    Morningside College

    Sioux City, IA

    Graduation Rate

    60%

    Enrollment

    2,411

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $32460

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $32460

    From its campus in Sioux City, Iowa, Morningside College educates college students as a private institution. The school offers academic and technical programs to help learners reach their educational goals. The institution's bachelor's programs incorporate lower-division and upper-division coursework. The degree typically requires general education credits. Upper-division credits emphasize advanced concepts in the major. Enrollees receive support in the form of tutoring and career services. The amount students pay per credit on average is unknown. Learners at the accredited institution qualify for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. Morningside College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    #18

    Iowa Lakes Community College

    Estherville, IA

    Graduation Rate

    46%

    Enrollment

    2,288

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $6016

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $6368

    Iowa Lakes Community College enrolls learners from its Estherville, Iowa campus. Enrollees study with experts in many different fields. With academic and technical tracks, the school's programs help learners meet their professional goals. Depending on the degree or certificate type, enrollees can spend anywhere from a few months up to as many as seven years completing a program. Applicants may qualify for a waiver for standardized test scores. These policies make it easier to apply. The admissions department provides additional resources on submitting an application. Financial aid helps degree-seekers pay for their education. The school holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #19

    Saint Ambrose University

    Davenport, IA

    Graduation Rate

    64%

    Enrollment

    3,003

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $32478

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $32478

    Saint Ambrose University, located in Davenport, Iowa, enrolls students as a private institution. Learners take courses with experts in diverse disciplines. Students who complete a technical or academic program may enter the workforce. Learners can expect an average cost of 1012 per credit. At the accredited institution, degree-seekers qualify for financial aid, including federal loans, scholarships, and grants. A total of 100% of students receive financial aid and 68% take out loans at the school. The private school reports a graduation rate of 64%. The admission rate for incoming students is 74%. Applicants can reach out to the admissions office to learn more about enrolling. Saint Ambrose University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #20

    Graceland University-Lamoni

    Lamoni, IA

    Graduation Rate

    41%

    Enrollment

    1,517

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $30650

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $30650

    A private institution, Graceland University-Lamoni grants degrees from its campus in Lamoni, Iowa. Degree-seekers study with experts in many different fields. The school offers academic and technical programs that prepare graduates for the workforce or further study. Information on the school's cost per credit is unavailable. Students at the accredited institution qualify for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. The institution reports that 100% of learners receive financial aid, while 74% take out loans. Bachelor's students graduate from the school at a rate of 41%. Prospective enrollees can expect an 68% admission rate. Admissions advisors can provide more information about application requirements and start dates. Graceland University-Lamoni has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #21

    Northeast Iowa Community College

    Calmar, IA

    Graduation Rate

    47%

    Enrollment

    4,162

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $5280

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $6000

    Northeast Iowa Community College, a public institution in Calmar, Iowa, enrolls learners in multiple programs. With both academic and technical programs, the school helps learners reach their educational goals. Students prepare to contribute to their field by completing courses. Some applicants qualify for a waiver for standardized test scores. A waiver makes it easier to apply. Enrollees receive support in the form of tutoring and career services. The school's cost per credit is unknown. Learners at the accredited school can pay for their educational costs with federal student aid programs. Northeast Iowa Community College has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

    #22

    Southeastern Community College

    West Burlington, IA

    Graduation Rate

    33%

    Enrollment

    2,260

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $5700

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $5850

    Southeastern Community College, which offers programs from its West Burlington, Iowa campus, often ranks among the top schools. Students study with experts in many different fields. The school offers academic and technical tracks to help learners meet a variety of professional goals. Depending on the program, students can spend anywhere from a few months up to as many as seven years earning their degree or certificate. Applicants may qualify for test-optional admissions. The waiver makes it simpler to enroll. The admissions department provides more information about the application process. Financial aid helps degree-seekers pay for their education. Southeastern Community College holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #23

    Briar Cliff University

    Sioux City, IA

    Graduation Rate

    50%

    Enrollment

    1,076

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $31898

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $31898

    A private institution, Briar Cliff University educates students on its campus in Sioux City, Iowa. With both academic and technical programs, the school helps students reach their professional goals. The institution's bachelor's programs incorporate lower-division and upper-division coursework. Undergraduates also complete general education courses. In upper-division classes, undergraduates learn advanced concepts in their major. Learners benefit from support services, which include tutoring and career counseling. The cost per credit is unknown. Learners at the accredited institution qualify for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. Briar Cliff University has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #24

    Southwestern Community College

    Creston, IA

    Graduation Rate

    48%

    Enrollment

    1,503

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $5520

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $5730

    A public institution located in Creston, Iowa, Southwestern Community College educates students through multiple programs. Students leave the school with credentials that prepare them for the workplace. Learners benefit from academically rigorous programs at an affordable price. Many of the school's degrees make national rankings. The amount students pay per credit is unknown at this time. As an accredited institution, degree-seekers qualify for federal student aid programs, such as the Pell Grant. The institution reports that students receive an average aid award of $5588, lowering the average tuition cost after aid to $9182. The school offers both academic and technical programs. The school offers foundational courses, technical classes, and general education courses in multiple majors. Southwestern Community College holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

    #25

    Western Iowa Tech Community College

    Sioux City, IA

    Graduation Rate

    39%

    Enrollment

    5,360

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $3792

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $3816

    Western Iowa Tech Community College, located in Sioux City, Iowa, enrolls students as a public institution. The institution's faculty brings expertise in multiple fields. The school's academic and technical programs prepare graduates for the workforce or further study. The institution's average cost per credit is unknown. Students at the accredited institution qualify for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. At the institution, 86% of students receive aid and 33% receive loans. Learners graduate from the school at a rate of 39%. The institution's admission rate is currently unknown. The admissions office provides more information about application requirements. The school holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #26

    Marshalltown Community College

    Marshalltown, IA

    Graduation Rate

    35%

    Enrollment

    1,836

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $4344

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $4680

    From its campus in Marshalltown, Iowa, Marshalltown Community College educates college students as a public institution. With both academic and technical programs, the school helps learners reach their professional goals. The institution offers coursework that gives students the chance to gain relevant knowledge and skills. Some programs offer a waiver for standardized test scores. A test score waiver makes it easier to enroll. Learners benefit from support services like tutoring and career counseling. The institution's average cost per credit is unknown. Learners at the accredited school qualify for federal student aid programs. Marshalltown Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    #27

    Eastern Iowa Community College District

    Davenport, IA

    Graduation Rate

    39%

    Enrollment

    7,081

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $5600

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $7744

    Located in Davenport, Iowa, Eastern Iowa Community College District grants college degrees as a public institution. The school's academic and technical programs help learners reach a variety of professional goals. Students prepare for a successful career by completing degree- or certificate-specific coursework. Many schools no longer require admissions tests such as ACT or SAT scores. This makes it easier to enroll. Learners benefit from support services, which include tutoring and career counseling. The amount students pay per credit on average is currently unknown. Learners attending the accredited school also qualify for federal financial aid programs, including the Pell Grant. The school holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

    #28

    Indian Hills Community College

    Ottumwa, IA

    Graduation Rate

    35%

    Enrollment

    3,279

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $4440

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $5880

    Located in Iowa, Indian Hills Community College offers 128 academic programs. Students enroll in top-ranked programs that offer a rigorous course of study. The school boasts a 14-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. The institution reports that of its total enrollees, 93% receive financial aid. The school reports a 35% graduation rate. Experiential learning opportunities help graduates on the job market. The institution's admission rate is currently unknown. Some programs offer a waiver for standardized test scores. The admission department can provide more information about application requirements and start dates.

    #29

    Clarke University

    Dubuque, IA

    Graduation Rate

    66%

    Enrollment

    855

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $34650

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $34650

    Located in Dubuque, Iowa, Clarke University often ranks among the best schools. The institution offers multiple degree-granting programs. With academic and technical tracks, the school's programs help students meet their professional goals. Typically, it takes students two years to complete an associate degree, four years to complete a bachelor's degree, 1-2 years for a master's degree, or 3-7 years for a doctoral degree. Some programs may no longer require standardized tests for admission. Test-optional policies make it easier to enroll. Admission advisors can help applicants complete the process. Financial aid helps students cover the cost of their degree. Clarke University has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    #30

    Kirkwood Community College

    Cedar Rapids, IA

    Graduation Rate

    33%

    Enrollment

    12,277

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $5040

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $6636

    From its campus in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Kirkwood Community College offers multiple programs as a public institution. Students leave the school with experience and credentials that prepare them for the workforce. Degree-seekers benefit from academically rigorous programs at an affordable price. The school boasts several programs that appear in national rankings. The cost per credit is unknown. As an accredited institution, degree-seekers qualify for federal student aid programs, such as the Pell Grant. Enrollees receive an average aid award of $5369, lowering the average tuition cost after aid to $8727. Learners choose from academic and technical programs. Depending on their major, students complete foundational courses, technical classes, and general education requirements. Kirkwood Community College has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting body.