Finance and Financial Management Services at University of Iowa

University of Iowa's finance program delivers strong early earnings that climb impressively over time—$60,000 right out of school, jumping to over $76,000 by year four. That 27% growth trajectory suggests graduates are landing roles with real advancement potential, not hitting a ceiling. With debt around $23,000, you're looking at roughly five months of first-year salary to cover the full balance, which is exceptionally manageable.

The program ranks in the 75th percentile nationally, outperforming three-quarters of finance programs across the country. Within Iowa, it sits at the 60th percentile, trailing only Drake and essentially matching Loras, but besting Iowa State and UNI. Given Iowa's admission rate above 80%, this represents solid value—you're not paying elite-school tuition or fighting through hyper-selective admissions, yet outcomes rival more exclusive programs.

The combination of accessible entry, moderate debt, and earnings that significantly exceed both state and national medians makes this a smart choice for students targeting finance careers, particularly those planning to stay in the Midwest. Four years out, these graduates are earning nearly $24,000 more than the Iowa median for this degree—a gap that compounds considerably over a career.