2026 Best Value Special Education Schools in Iowa

1

University Of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA

For return on investment in special education, no school beat University Of Northern Iowa this year. Located in the city of Cedar Falls, University Of Northern Iowa is a large public university. In-state tuition and fees average $9,936, compared with $21,712 for out-of-state students. Special Education graduates carry a median of $22,635 in student loans. Special Education graduates of University Of Northern Iowa earn a median of $60,588 early in their careers. Set against $22,635 in median debt, that is a healthy payoff. The acceptance rate is 93%.

2

Buena Vista University
Storm Lake, IA

Buena Vista University came in at #2 on our 2026 list of the best value special education schools. Located in the town of Storm Lake, Buena Vista University is a mid-sized private not-for-profit university. Expect in-state tuition and fees of around $41,798. Special Education graduates carry a median of $29,317 in student loans. Early-career special education graduates make about $44,780. Set against $29,317 in median debt, that is a healthy payoff. Buena Vista University admits about 78% of applicants.

3

Morningside College
Sioux City, IA

Students looking for strong value in special education will find it at Morningside College, which ranked #3. Located in the city of Sioux City, Morningside College is a mid-sized private not-for-profit university. Expect in-state tuition and fees of around $39,519. Special Education graduates carry a median of $27,281 in student loans. Soon after graduation, special education degree recipients from Morningside College generally make around $55,760. That is a strong return on a $27,281 median debt. Morningside College admits about 71% of applicants.

4

Upper Iowa University
Fayette, IA

Upper Iowa University is a great value for students pursuing a degree in special education, landing the #4 spot this year. Set in the rural area of Fayette, Upper Iowa University is a moderately-sized private not-for-profit institution. Students from in state pay about $19,475 in tuition and fees. Students borrow a median of $35,455 to complete the special education program here. Special Education graduates of Upper Iowa University earn a median of $50,052 early in their careers. That is a strong return on a $35,455 median debt. Roughly 96% of applicants are accepted.

5

Northwestern College Iowa
Orange City, IA

A rank of #5 makes Northwestern College Iowa one of the best values for special education. Northwestern College Iowa is a mid-sized private not-for-profit school located in the town of Orange City. The average in-state cost of tuition and fees is $36,710. Students borrow a median of $25,415 to complete the special education program here. Early-career special education graduates make about $54,845. Set against $25,415 in median debt, that is a healthy payoff. The acceptance rate is 80%.