The Most Military-Supportive Colleges in the VA Continental District – Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Wyoming
The Continental district stretches from the frigid northern border in North Dakota all the way down to the humid Texas Gulf Coast. In between is a lot of mountains, deserts, and forests. It’s what the folks on the coasts calls Flyover Country.
But the DoD recognizes it as a place that supports some of the best training opportunities anywhere in the country. Lots of sunshine and clear skies over Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas mean more predictable sorties for flight training. The mountains of Colorado invite long, punishing conditioning marches and survival skills training. And nestled deep beneath the miles of empty cropland and grazing range of Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, and Nebraska, lay the subterranean forests of America’s strategic nuclear deterrent, closely guarded by Air Force squadrons.
This means the Heartland is a place where many military personnel are stationed. And whether it’s the mountains and prairies that grab your imagination or the big city bustle of Dallas, Denver, or other major metros, you may very well decide this is a great part of the country to stay and get your college degree.
The Heart of the Country is Home to Many of the Most Military-Supportive Universities in the U.S.
No matter what state you decide to settle in across the central U.S., you’ll have plenty of choices for higher education. Superb state university systems exist across the region, and highly respected private schools exist in quiet small towns and big thriving cities.
Your biggest challenge will be deciding where to apply. And for that, this list of the top military supportive schools in the region will be priceless.
These are all schools that accept your military education benefits, and more: they all go the extra mile toward making both vets and active duty military students feel at home and offering the extra support they need to transition to higher education from military service.
How do we know all that? Well, we used the most important metric we could find:
Every school on our list offers Yellow Ribbon program funding to all qualified applicants, and fully funds their tuition to cover all tuition costs above GI Bill® limits.
Why is this criteria so important? It’s an amazing opportunity for veterans to attend some of the most elite schools in the region without a dime of out-of-pocket costs, of course. But more importantly, it means the school has skin in the game. They are putting cold, hard cash toward making sure that every military student can make the most of the education they offer.
Not all students need Yellow Ribbon, of course—it covers costs for out-of-state tuition rates or private schools that charge more than the GI Bill® maximum. But we found that if a school is willing to go that far, then they are probably also going to go the extra mile when it comes to other important benefits:
- Offering tuition and fee discounts to active duty personnel, veterans, or their families
- Providing scholarship offers for those not fully covered by official education benefits
- Recognizing military training and experience in the form of college credit awards
- Delivering dedicated counseling and academic advisory services
Learn more about how we select the most military-supportive colleges in the country
Editor’s Choice for 2023: Top Picks for the Most Military-Supportive Colleges and Universities in the Central U.S.
Explore Your Education Options by State
COLORADO (Public)
Colorado Mesa University
Grand Junction, CO
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Art and design
- Biological sciences
- Business
- Computer science and engineering
- Health sciences
- Kinesiology
- Languages, literature, and mass communication
- Mathematics and statistics
- Music
- Physical and environmental sciences
- Social and behavioral sciences
- Teacher education
- Theatre arts
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $38,520 (in-state), $95,640 (out-of-state). For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $2,040 below the state average for public schools!
- Dedicated student veteran lounge and resources and support through the Veteran Services Office
- Free dedicated veteran tutoring available
Colorado Mesa University is proud to offer the Yellow Ribbon Program, which is available to all eligible students. The Veterans Office serves as a hub of support for military veterans. Veteran students here are encouraged to schedule an appointment to begin creating their class schedule and reviewing their VA education benefits. On-campus veteran resources at Colorado Mesa abound, with dedicated veteran tutoring services, a veteran student lounge, and the Student Veterans Association, a student veteran-run club that serves to provide military veteran with the resources, support, and advocacy they need to succeed in college and beyond.
Western Colorado University
Gunnison, CO
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- School of Computer Science & Engineering
- School of Business
- School of Environment and Sustainability
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $38,520 (in-state) $74,400 (out-of-state). For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $2,040 below the state average for public schools!
- All eligible veteran students and their dependents enjoy in-state tuition rates
- Outstanding opportunities for service members and veterans to connect with military-friendly employers through the Hire Heroes USA Virtual Career Fair
Western Colorado University rewards service members and veterans with course credit for military service and is a proud member of the Yellow Ribbon Program. Here, all eligible students receive Yellow Ribbon Program funding to cover any and all tuition expenses not covered by the Post-9/11 GI Bill® (for those qualifying for maximum benefits)! We also love their dedicated career fair called Hire Heroes USA Virtual Career Fair, which connects service members and veterans with military friendly employers. And did we mention that Western offers all qualified veteran students and their dependents in-state tuition?
Fort Lewis College
Durango, CO
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- School of Arts and Sciences
- School of Business Administration
- School of Education
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $28,200 (in-state), $70,800 (out-of-state). For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $12,360 below the state average for public schools!
- All active-duty members and their dependents are eligible for in-state tuition rates
- All veterans and their dependents receiving VA educational benefits are eligible for in-state tuition rates
- Military-centric learning features outstanding opportunities for experiential learning and small class sizes that offer personalized support and attention
Fort Lewis College is naturally structured to accommodate the needs of today’s military service members and veterans. In addition to offering in-state tuition rates for all eligible service members, veterans, and their dependents, Fort Lewis is a proud member of the Yellow Ribbon Program, which covers all tuition expenses that the Post-9/11 GI Bill® doesn’t (for those qualifying for maximum benefits). Just some of the military-centric benefits of Fort Lewis College include small class sizes (student-to-faculty ratio is just 15:1) for personalized support… no less than 55 majors that come with outstanding experiential learning opportunities… and dedicated academic support and assistance.
Colorado State University
Ft. Collins, CO
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Arts, Humanities, and Design
- Environmental and Natural Resources
- Global and Social Sciences
- Health, Life and Food Sciences
- Land, Plant and Animal Sciences
- Organization, Management, and Enterprise
- Physical Sciences and Engineering
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $50,160 (in-state), $115,920 (out-of-state)
- Exciting opportunities to earn college credit for your prior military education and training
- Ranked among the top Best for Vets public schools in both Colorado and the nation by the Military Times
- Home to more than 2,000 student veterans, service members, and their dependents
Colorado State University boasts a military supportive learning environment that includes in-state tuition for active-duty service members (and their spouses and dependents), veterans, and Colorado National Guardsmen! CSU has long served our nation’s military, and today this university is home to more than 2,000 student veterans, service members, and their dependents. CSU has been recognized as a Best for Vets college by the Military Times, and in recent years, has ranked in the top five universities in both Colorado and the nation! Just some of the military-focused services and resources offered here include privately funded scholarships, a Women’s Veteran Initiative, outstanding career counseling and placement services, and a network of support that addresses physical, mental, and emotional challenges.
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Denver, CO
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- College of Business
- College of Health and Applied Sciences
- College of Letters, Arts, and Science
- School of Education
- School of Hospitality
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $44,400 (in-state), $103,080 (out-of-state)
- Outstanding support and guidance offered through the Veteran and Military Student Services
- Generous credit transfer policy allows students to earn college credit for their prior military training and experience
- Named a Best for Vets college by the Military Times
The Metropolitan State University of Denver extends in-state tuition to Colorado National Guardsmen and active duty service members and their dependents! We also love the university’s generous credit transfer policy that allows service members and veterans to earn college credit for their prior military education and training. Plus, MSU Denver offers additional transfer credits and waivers for students who have completed at least two years of active duty in the U.S. Military and for those were deployed abroad for at least six months, and additional semester hours for those who have served at least two terms of four years or attained the rank of E5 or above. It’s this type of support that earned MSU Denver a ranking among the Military Times’ Best for Vets list!
University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, CO
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Education and Behavioral Sciences
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- College of Business
- Natural and Health Sciences
- Performing and Visual Arts
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $43,800 (in-state), $84,960 (out-of-state)
- All active duty service members and Colorado National Guardsmen enjoy in-state tuition
- Home to an outstanding network of services and resources for military-affiliated students that include Veterans Services and the PAVE (Peer Advisors for Veteran Education) Program
The University of Northern Colorado is where you’ll find a generous credit transfer policy that allows you to trade your military experience and training for up to 30 semester hours of college credit and an outstanding network of support services and resources through Veterans Services. Plus, in 2020, UNC launched the national PAVE (Peer Advisors for Veteran Education) Program to provide students vets and service members with unmatched support throughout their academic journey. And if you’re an active duty service member or Colorado National Guard member, you’ll enjoy in-state tuition here!
University of Denver
Denver, CO
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Daniel Felix Ritchie School of Engineering & Computer Science
- Daniels College of Business
- College of Natural Sciences & Mathematics
- College of Arts Humanities & Social Sciences
- Josef Korbel School of International Studies
- Morgridge College of Education
- University College
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $221,040
- Ranked among the Best Colleges for Veterans by U.S. News & World Report
- Superb resources and services for veteran students include alumni and industry professional mentors
- Military supportive environment features a low, student-to-faculty ratio of just 12:1
The University of Denver is there to provide its student military community with exceptional support and guidance throughout their academic journey and beyond. The Office of Veterans & Military Resources provides unmatched academic and financial services, while the Veterans & Military Resources Lounge serves as a quiet space to connect with peers, ask questions, and relax. We love the Veteran’s Peer-to-Peer Network program here that pairs incoming vet students with experienced alumni mentors to ease the transition from military life to college life, and the Right Foot Forward career prep program that matches student veterans with industry-professional mentors based on their career aspirations. This is why the University of Denver was ranked among U.S. News & World Report’s list of the Best Colleges for Veterans!
COLORADO (Private)
Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design
Lakewood, CO
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Animation
- Art education
- Fashion design
- Fine arts
- Game art
- Graphic design
- Illustration
- Illustrative design
- Interior design
- Photography
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $83,160
- Outstanding discounted tuition rate of just $250 per credit hour for active duty service members, Guardsmen, and reservists
- Outstanding services and resources include lifelong access to the college’s Career and Alumni Services
Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design is where service members and veterans can embark upon a new career in a military-supportive environment! RMCAD offers both on-campus and online programs for the best in convenience and flexibility and a superb tuition rate of just $250 per credit hour for active duty service members, Guardsmen, and reservists! We really love RMCAD’s Renew Program, which provides graduates with the opportunity to keep their skills current by offering any current course within their original degree program free of charge! As a military graduate here, you’ll also have lifelong access to Career and Alumni Services for job placement service and career advice!
Colorado Technical University
Greenwood Village / Colorado Springs, CO
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Business and management
- Engineering and computer science
- Healthcare
- IT
- Nursing
- Project management
- Security studies
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $61,200, For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $17,880 below the state average for private schools!
- Undergraduate tuition rate of just $315 per credit available to all service members, Guardsmen, reservists, and their spouses
- CTU named among Military Times’ Best for Vets: Colleges 2021 rankings of online and nontraditional schools
- Opportunities to earn college credit for your previous military experience and education
Colorado Technical University is dedicated to providing service member and veteran students with the support and guidance they need for success. CTU’s Military Education Benefits Specialists work closely with service members, veterans, and their dependents to ensure they’re using all military benefits they qualify for. And with your choice of online or on-campus study (or a blend of the two), going back to school and earning your degree has never been easier or more convenient – even if you’re stationed across the country or across the world! Best of all, if you’re an active duty service member, reservist, Guardsmen, or the spouse of one, you’ll enjoy an undergraduate military tuition rate of just $315 per credit! Other perks of choosing CTU include opportunities to earn credits for your previous military experience and training and the CTU Patriot Scholarship, which is available to eligible disabled service members and veterans and their families.
Johnson & Wales University
Denver, CO
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Business
- Criminal justice
- Culinary management
- Health science
- Hospitality
- HR Management
- Liberal studies
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $59,400. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $19,680 below the state average for private schools!
- Outstanding legacy of providing career-focused educational programs for our nation’s military
- Flexible, online courses allow service members and vets to earn their degree wherever and whenever it’s most convenient
Johnson & Wales University enjoys a long legacy of providing career-ready educational degrees to service members and their families. In fact, it was a leader in educating women to fill positions of men serving overseas during WWI. And once the war ended, they also provided returning vets with job training to transition back into civilian life. JWU continues this storied history of serving our nation’s military by offering career-focused degrees that are delivered in a flexible, online learning environment. Choose JWU and you may be able to earn college credit for your previous military experience and training!
Webster University
Greenwood Village / Peterson AFB, CO
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Advertising and Marketing Communications
- Counseling
- Criminal Justice
- Cybersecurity
- Data Analytics
- Education
- Educational Leadership
- Health Administration
- Human Resources Development
- National Security Studies
- Management & Leadership
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $54,360. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $24,720 below the state average for private schools!
- Outstanding tuition rate of just $250 per credit for all eligible active-duty military, Guardsmen, and reservists
- On-site courses available at 27 military bases across the country
- Online and hybrid courses offerings provide maximum convenience and flexibility
Webster University is where our nation’s military is educated! Offering in-person classes at its 27 military base locations and online courses for those with schedules that don’t accommodate in-person learning, Webster is a leader in military education. Other benefits of choosing Webster include the opportunity to earn college credit based on your previous military education and experience, a discounted tuition of just $250 per credit for active-duty military, Guardsmen, and reservists, and outstanding support and guidance through their Office of Military Affairs.
Denver College of Nursing
Denver, CO
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program: RN to BSN
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $51,360. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $27,720 below the state average for private schools!
- Asynchronous, online learning environment allows military students to earn their BSN wherever and whenever it’s most convenient for them
- Transfer your previous nursing or general education credits toward your BSN
Denver College of Nursing’s RN to BSN program offers a truly convenient and flexible way to transition into a nursing role. Earn up to 90 credits from your previous RN education and military training and you’ll be able to complete your degree in as little as 15 months! And thanks to the asynchronous, online format, you’ll be able to earn your BSN regardless of where you’re stationed! Don’t have an RN license? No problem! You can transfer your previous general education courses to get a head start on your BSN.
IOWA (Public)
Purdue University Global
Cedar Rapids / Urbandale / Mason City, IA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Aviation
- Business
- Communication
- Criminal Justice
- Education
- Fire Science
- Health Sciences
- Human Services
- Information Technology
- Legal Studies
- Nursing
- Professional Studies
- Psychology
- Public Policy
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $50,400 (in-state), $66,840 (out-of-state). Only public institution in Iowa accepting Yellow Ribbon Program benefits
- About one-third of all students have a military affiliation
- 55% undergraduate tuition discount for all service members
- 38% undergraduate tuition discount for all veterans
- Fully online programs offer outstanding convenience and flexibility
Purdue University Global is part of the esteemed Purdue University System, which offers more than 175 degrees, specializations, and certificates. They’ve long supported our nation’s military students – about one-third of the university’s student body has a military affiliation. Through Purdue University, service members and veterans can complete convenient and accessible online degree programs that align with their career goals or personal interests. Purdue University Global’s commitment to our nation’s military includes a 55% undergraduate tuition discount for current service members and a 38% undergraduate tuition discount for veterans! Check out their online Associate in Small Group Management – it’s specifically designed for service members and veterans and can be transferred to a Purdue Global bachelor’s degree program!
IOWA (Private)
Grand View University
Des Moines, IA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Art and Design
- Biology
- Business Administration
- Chemistry/Physics
- Communication
- Computer Science
- Criminal Justice and Sociology
- Education
- English
- History
- Graduation with Honors
- Kinesiology and Health Promotion
- Liberal Arts
- Mathematics
- Modern Languages
- Music
- Nursing
- Organizational Studies
- Paralegal Studies
- Political Science
- Psychology and Human Services
- Social Work
- Theatre Arts
- Theology and Philosophy
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $251,400
- Outstanding tuition discount of $100 per credit hour for all active duty military students and their spouses
- Generous credit transfer policy allows students to earn college credit for their previous military training and experience
- Online and on-campus programs provide military students with maximum flexibility and convenience
Grand View University is where military students reach their academic and personal goals! We love Grand View University for its generous credit transfer policy that allows military students to earn college credit for their prior military training and experience, as well as for its convenient and flexible undergraduate learning environment that includes your choice of on-campus or online programs. Military-affiliated students are sure to appreciate its career-focused programs that come complete with outstanding student support and tech-forward curricula. In fact, Grand View has long been heralded for its uniquely designed programs for working adults. Did you know that Grand View has boasted a 98% employment rate among graduates for almost two decades?
Cornell College
Mount Vernon, IA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- American Politics and Public Policy
- Anthropology
- Archaeology
- Art: Studio
- Art History
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- Biology
- Business
- Chemistry
- Civic Engagement
- Classical Studies
- Computer Science
- Dance
- Data Science
- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
- Economics
- Education
- Engineering
- English
- Environmental Justice and Sustainability
- Environmental Science and Sustainability
- Environmental Studies
- French
- Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies
- Geology
- German Studies
- History
- International Relations
- International Relations and Comparative Government
- Kinesiology
- Latin American Studies
- Mathematics & Statistics
- Medieval & Early Modern Studies
- Music
- Musical Theatre (B.F.A.)
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Political Thought
- Politics
- Psychology: Behavioral Neuroscience, Psychology Specialist, Psychological Services, General Psychology
- Race, Ethnicity, and Social Justice
- Religion
- Russian Studies
- Sociology and Anthropology
- Spanish
- Statistics (Applied)
- Sustainability, Climate Change, and Geology
- Theatre and Dance
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $194,040
- Flexible, block-style semesters and the convenience of its One Course At A Time program allows students to participate in a fully engaging academic experience
- Most students at Cornell graduate in four years or less
- Superb selection of majors and minors to choose from
Cornell College is home everything today’s military students are looking for! Flexible, block-style semesters and the One Course At A Time program allow both active duty and veterans schedule their courses around their busy lives and participate in a truly engaging academic experience. Take just one course at a time instead of struggling to focus on several courses at the same time! This personalized undergraduate course of study allows most students of Cornell College to graduate in four years or less!
Luther College
Decorah, IA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Accounting
- Africana Studies
- Applied Leadership Studies
- Anthropology
- Art
- Art History
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Chinese
- Classical Studies
- Communication Studies
- Computer Science
- Counseling
- Dance
- Data Science
- Economics
- Education
- English
- Environmental Studies
- Exercise Science
- Foreign Culture
- French
- German
- Global Health
- History
- Identity Studies
- International Business
- International Studies
- Journalism
- Law and Values
- Linguistics
- Management
- Mathematics
- Mathematics/Statistics
- Museum Studies
- Music
- Music Education
- Musical Theatre
- Neuroscience
- Nordic Studies
- Nursing
- Paideia
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Religion
- Social Welfare
- Social Work
- Sociology
- Spanish
- Theatre
- Visual Communication
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $190,080
- Highly engaging, student-centered experience features plentiful, hands-on learning experiences and a low, 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Superb record of student success includes a 96-98% employment rate among graduates within eight months of graduating
- Outstanding selection of undergraduate majors and minors to choose from
Luther College is home to highly engaging undergraduate programs of study that are ideally designed to appeal to today’s military-affiliated students! We love the immersive nature of a Luther education – all students here participate in highly engaging, hands-on learning experiences that include internships, research, student teaching, study abroad, or service learning. We’re also impressed with Luther’s outstanding record of student achievement that includes a 96-98% employment rate among graduates within eight months of graduating. Choose from more than 60 areas of learning here!
Simpson College
Indianola, IA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Department of Biology & Environmental Science
- Department of Business Administration & Economics
- Department of Chemistry
- Department of Computer Science
- Department of English
- Department of Graphic Design
- Department of History
- Interdisciplinary Studies Program
- Department of Mathematics
- Department of Multimedia Communication
- Department of Music
- Department of Philosophy
- Department of Physics
- Department of Political Science
- Department of Psychology
- Department of Religion
- Department of Sociology & Criminal Justice
- Department of Sport Science & Health Education
- Department of Teacher Education
- Department of Theatre Arts
- Department of World Language and Culture Studies
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $176,760
- Outstanding record of student success includes a 98.6% employment rate for students within six months of graduation
- Military-centric learning experience features flexible online, hybrid, and on-campus courses, accelerated, eight-week terms, and multiple start dates throughout the year
- Earn college credit for your prior military training and experience
Simpson College’s commitment to our nation’s service members, veterans, and their dependents includes outstanding support and guidance. Work closely with the registrar to ensure you’re taking full advantage of all VA resources… connect with other student veterans… and enjoy personal attention from the dedicated faculty and staff. Simpson is also where you’ll find a decidedly military-centric academic experience that includes your choice of online, hybrid, or on-campus courses; accelerated, eight-week classes; and multiple start dates per year. Best of all, your prior military training and experience can earn you college credit here!
Buena Vista University
Storm Lake, IA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- School of Business
- School of Education
- School of Liberal Arts
- School of Science
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $154,560
- Superb record of student achievement includes a 99% employment rate within six months of graduation
- • BVU has been a leader in online education for more than 15 years
- More than 10 community college have partnered with BVU to provide convenient transfer options and the opportunity to complete your degree fully online
- Online programs are ideally designed to accommodate the needs of today’s busy military students
Buena Vista University is home to the best in flexibility and convenience that includes your choice of study at the school’s Storm Lake campus or through online or hybrid courses. Choose from Buena Vista’s online and hybrid undergraduate programs and you’ll complete your degree wherever and whenever it’s most convenient for you! Online study here includes accelerated, eight-week courses, six start dates per year, and outstanding support from dedicated student success specialists, advisors, and financial specialists from start to finish! Plus, you can start your degree through one of Buena Vista’s community college partners (there’s many throughout Iowa) and then transfer your credits to BVU and finish fully online!
Loras College
Dubuque, IA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Accounting
- Analytics
- Applied Physics
- Athletic Training 3+2 (Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology + Master of Athletic Training)
- Biochemistry
- Biological Research
- Biology
- Business Administration
- Business Analytics
- Catholic Studies
- Chemistry
- Coaching
- Computer Science
- Criminal Justice
- Data Science
- Economics, Education – Elementary, Education – Secondary
- Engineering (Mechanical, General w/ other tracks)
- English – Creative Writing, English Literature
- Ethics
- Finance, Financial Planning and Wealth Management
- Gender Studies
- History
- Instrumental Music
- Insurance and Risk Management
- International Studies
- Irish Studies
- Journalism
- Kinesiology
- Management Information Systems
- Marketing
- Mathematics
- Media Studies
- Music, Music – Liturgical
- Neuroscience
- Nursing 3+2 (Loras Bachelor’s degree in select major + NICC degree in Nursing)
- Peace and Justice
- Philosophy
- Politics
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Public Relations
- Racial Justice
- Religious Studies and Theology
- Rhetoric & Public Writing
- Social Work
- Sociology
- Spanish
- Sport Management
- Sustainability
- Vocal Music
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $138,960
- Student-centered learning environment features a low, 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Outstanding record of student success includes a near-90% employment rate among 2019 graduates within one year of graduation
- Home to one of the few ABET-accredited, four-year engineering degrees
Loras College offers what today’s military students demand! In addition to being a proud partner of the Yellow Ribbon Program, Loras is committed to providing its military students with a streamlined path to their undergraduate degree, which is why nearly 90% of all students in 2019 graduated in four years or less. And Loras also boasts an outstanding record of student excellence that includes a 98.8% employment rate among graduates within a year of graduation. And did you know that Loras is just one of a few colleges in the nation that offers an ABET-accredited, four-year engineering degree?
Iowa Wesleyan University
Mt. Pleasant, IA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Biology
- Business administration
- Criminal justice
- Digital media design
- Educational services
- Elementary education
- Exercise science and wellness
- Humanities
- Human services
- Music (k-12 licensure)
- Music
- Nursing (RN to BSN)
- Nursing (pre-licensure)
- Physical education
- Secondary science education
- Secondary business education
- Psychology
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $134,160
- Transfer up to 75% of your bachelor’s degree with previous college, military, and/or work credit
- Fully online programs require no campus visits and the flexibility of studying whenever and wherever it’s most convenient for you
- Free laptop and free tuition during the last two terms for all military-affiliated students
Iowa Wesleyan University is where your previous military training and experience can earn you valuable college credits toward your bachelor’s degree! You can transfer up to 75% of your bachelor’s degree with previous college, military, and/or work credit! It’s also fully committed to the success of its military-affiliated students (including military spouses and dependent) by offering tuition discounts and incentives like a free laptop after the completion of your first two classes, and free tuition during your last two terms! Military students are sure to appreciate its fully online programs that feature no campus visits and the flexibility of completing your program whenever and wherever it’s most convenient for you! Iowa Wesleyan’s outstanding record of academic excellence and student success has earned it national accolated as a Top Regional College in the Midwest and a Top Performer on Social Mobility by U.S. News & World Report.
Briar Cliff University
Sioux City, IA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Business
- Communication Arts
- Education
- General Education
- Health Sciences
- Human Services
- Management
- Marketing
- Nursing Sciences
- Social Services
- Technology
- Wellness
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $130,080. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $1,560 below the state average for private schools!
- Private university atmosphere features exceptional support and resources and a low, 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio
Briar Cliff University is a proud partner of the Yellow Ribbon program and participant of the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program, which offers employment accommodations, job training, resume development, skills coaching, and job search assistance to veteran students. Decidedly military-centric, this small, private university boasts a low, 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio and the superb support and resources that help make your educational journey a success.
Allen College
Waterloo, IA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- School of health sciences
- School of nursing
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $82,440. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $49,200 below the state average for private schools!
- Excellent support and guidance offered through the college’s VA Benefits Coordinator
- Career-focused health sciences and nursing programs can be completed online for the best in convenience and flexibility
Allen College’s commitment to our nation’s veterans and service members is backed by exceptional support and guidance through the college’s VA Benefits Coordinator, who’s there to ensure you take full advantage of all VA benefits you’re eligible for. On-campus or online, the programs offered through Allen College can build on your previous military training and experience in areas like diagnostic medical sonography, medical imaging, healthcare leadership, nursing, and more or can prepare you for a whole new career.
Central College
Pella, IA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Accounting
- German Studies
- Actuarial Science
- History
- Anthropology (Cultural)
- Information Systems
- Art
- International and Global Studies
- Athletic Training
- Mathematics Biochemistry
- Music
- Biology
- Music Education
- Business Management
- Musical Theatre
- Chemistry
- Natural Science
- Communication Studies
- Philosophy
- Computer Science
- Physics Economics
- Political Science
- Education (Elementary)
- Psychology
- Engineering
- Religious Studies
- English
- Self-Designed Studies
- Environmental Studies
- Social Science
- Exercise Science
- Sociology
- French & Francophone Studies
- Spanish
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $79,200. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $52,440 below the state average for private schools!
- Four-year graduation guarantee or Central will pay for your ninth semester!
Central College understands that today’s military students don’t want to waste time earning their degree, which is why they guarantee that you’ll earn your bachelor’s degree in four years, or your ninth semester tuition is free! They’re also proud partners of the Yellow Ribbon Program, which covers all tuition costs that aren’t covered by the Post-9/11 GI Bill®. All qualifying students receive Yellow Ribbon Program benefits at Central!
St. Luke’s College
Sioux City, IA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- BSN
- Bachelor of Health Science
- ASN
- AS in Radiologic Technology
- AS in Respiratory Care
- Advanced Radiology Specialties
- Certificate in Medical Laboratory Science
- Certificate in Phlebotomy
- Clinical Pastoral Education
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $72,000. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $59,640 below the state average for private schools!
- Career-focused programs are ideal for today’s military students
St. Luke’s College is a proud partner of the Yellow Ribbon Program! Students using Post-9/11 GI Bill® benefits here are eligible for this program, which at St. Luke’s covers all remaining tuition expenses not covered by the Post-9/11 GI Bill® (for those qualifying for maximum benefits). You’re sure to love the career-focused healthcare programs here like the AS and BS in Nursing, the BS in Health Science, the AS in Respiratory Care, certificate in Phlebotomy, and more! Designed to appeal to today’s military students, whether service members or vets, St. Luke’s programs feature small class sizes, plenty of clinical experiences, and an outstanding record of job placement success.
Maharishi International University
Fairfield, IA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Art
- Business Administration
- Computer Science
- English: Creative Writing & Literature
- Exercise & Sport Sciences
- Maharishi Vedic Science
- Mathematics
- Cinematic Arts & New Media
- Physics
- Physiology & Health
- Regenerative Agriculture
- Sustainable & Regenerative Living
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $66,120. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $65,520 below the state average for private schools!
- Online programs provide military-affiliated students with superb convenience and flexibility
Maharishi International University offers what today’s military students are looking for – value, quality, and flexibility. In addition to the affordable tuition offered here, Maharishi University is a proud participant of the Yellow Ribbon Program, which is available to all eligible students and covers any tuition not covered by the Post-9/