University of Dubuque
United States
University of Dubuque
Dubuque, United States
Founded
1852
Institution Type
Private
Total Students
1,757
Student-Faculty Ratio
11:1
Discover the University of Dubuque: History and Mission
Discover the University of Dubuque: History and Mission
The University of Dubuque (UD) is a private, coeducational university affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), located on a 77-acre campus near the scenic bluffs along the Mississippi River in Dubuque, Iowa. Founded in 1852 by Reverend Adrian Van Vliet as a small seminary to train ministers for incoming immigrants, the institution has grown into a comprehensive university offering undergraduate, graduate, and seminary programs.
UD is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers programs across liberal arts, sciences, business, aviation, nursing, education, and theology. The university is especially recognized for its aviation and nursing programs, which attract students from across the country. With small class sizes and a student-faculty ratio of 11:1, UD emphasizes personalized academic support and mentorship.
Over the past two decades, the University of Dubuque has invested over USD 250 million in new campus construction and renovations, transforming its facilities into modern learning environments. The university prepares students for meaningful careers through academics, community engagement, character development, and stewardship, staying true to its mission of fostering intellectual growth and ethical responsibility.
Key Milestones
- 1852: Founded by Reverend Adrian Van Vliet as the German Theological College and Seminary to train ministers for immigrant communities in the upper Midwest.
- 1920: Officially adopted the name University of Dubuque after a legal dispute over naming rights with another local college.
- 2004: Dedicated South Campus, the most significant land use development since the early 1900s, anchoring the university along Highway 20.
- 2017: Received a transformational USD 60 million estate gift from Edward and Shirley Babka to fund student scholarships, boosting the endowment to over USD 150 million.
Academic Structure and Programs at the University of Dubuque
Academic Structure and Programs at the University of Dubuque
The University of Dubuque offers a diverse range of academic programs organized across several schools and departments. With more than 40 undergraduate areas of study and multiple graduate programs, UD combines liberal arts foundations with professional preparation in high-demand fields such as aviation, nursing, business, and education.
School of Aviation
One of the most recognized programs at UD, the School of Aviation offers FAA-accredited flight training and aviation management degrees. The program is accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International and has partnerships with major airlines including American Airlines.
- Flight Operations (BS)
- Aviation Management (BS)
- Aerospace Technology and UAS (BS)
School of Business
The School of Business prepares students for leadership roles in diverse industries through programs in accounting, marketing, human resource management, and business administration. Graduate students can pursue an MBA with flexible scheduling options.
- Business Administration (BS/MBA)
- Accounting (BS)
- Marketing (BS)
School of Natural and Applied Sciences
This school offers rigorous programs in the natural sciences, mathematics, computer science, and health-related fields. Students benefit from modern laboratory facilities in the University Science Center and hands-on research opportunities.
- Nursing (BSN)
- Medical Science (BS)
- Biology (BS)
School of Education
The School of Education prepares future teachers for elementary, secondary, and special education careers. Programs emphasize classroom experience, pedagogical theory, and state licensure preparation across multiple teaching disciplines.
- Elementary Education (BS)
- Health Education Teaching K-12 (BS)
- Music Education Teaching K-12 (BS)
School of Humanities and Social Sciences
This school encompasses programs in communication, criminal justice, psychology, philosophy, politics, and history. Students develop critical thinking, writing, and analytical skills applicable to a wide range of careers and graduate study.
- Criminal Justice (BS)
- Communication (BA)
- Psychology (BA)
Theological Seminary
The University of Dubuque Theological Seminary (UDTS) is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools and offers graduate-level programs for those pursuing ordained ministry and theological scholarship. It has served the church since the university's founding.
- Master of Divinity (MDiv)
- Master of Arts in Mission and Discipleship
- Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
Admission Requirements for the University of Dubuque
Admission Requirements for the University of Dubuque
Undergraduate Admission
- ApplicationCommon Application or UD online application (no application fee)
- TranscriptsOfficial high school transcripts required
- Standardized TestsTest-optional; SAT or ACT scores accepted but not required
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 70 for international students
- RecommendationsLetters of recommendation welcomed but not required
Graduate Admission
- ApplicationOnline application with application fee
- TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all previously attended institutions
- Standardized TestsGRE or GMAT may be required depending on program
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 70 for international applicants
- Supporting DocumentsPersonal statement, resume, and letters of recommendation
Applications accepted on a rolling basis for the fall semester beginning in August. Early application is recommended.
Applications accepted on a rolling basis for the spring semester beginning in January.
Priority deadline for financial aid applications. Submit the FAFSA as early as possible for maximum consideration.
Graduate program deadlines vary by department. Contact the specific program for the most current deadline information.
Tuition, Fees, and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition, Fees, and Scholarship Opportunities
As a private institution, the University of Dubuque maintains a single tuition rate for all students regardless of state residency. The university is committed to affordability and provides generous financial aid packages, with the vast majority of students receiving some form of scholarship or grant assistance.
| Cost Category | Undergraduate (Annual) | Graduate (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | USD 38,260 | USD 7,740 |
| Fees | USD 1,805 | USD 1,280 |
| Room and Board | USD 12,660 | N/A |
| Books and Supplies | USD 0 (included) | Varies by program |
| Total | USD 52,725 | USD 9,020 (tuition and fees only) |
Babka Scholarship Fund
Established through a landmark USD 60 million estate gift, the Babka Scholarship Fund provides need-based scholarships to students, supporting more than USD 15 million in annual scholarship awards.
- Type: Need-based
- Eligibility: All enrolled students demonstrating financial need
- Application: Automatically considered upon FAFSA submission
Academic Merit Scholarships
The University of Dubuque awards merit-based scholarships to incoming students based on academic achievement, leadership, and extracurricular involvement. These awards are renewable for up to four years.
- Type: Merit-based
- Eligibility: Based on GPA, test scores, and leadership record
- Average Award: Contact the university for current award amounts
Campus and Facilities at the University of Dubuque
Campus and Facilities at the University of Dubuque
The University of Dubuque's 77-acre campus features a blend of historic and modern buildings set near the Mississippi River bluffs. Over USD 250 million in recent investments have transformed the campus with state-of-the-art academic, athletic, and residential facilities.
A premier performing arts and conference center featuring a concert hall, recital hall, and art gallery spaces for campus and community events.
A modern recreation facility offering fitness areas, courts, a swimming pool, and wellness programs for all students.
Located at Dubuque Regional Airport, the flight center houses a fleet of training aircraft and advanced flight simulators including a CRJ-200 Level 5 simulator.
Housing and Dining
On-Campus Housing
Students with fewer than 90 credits are required to live on campus. Multiple residence halls and apartment-style options are available to suit different preferences.
- Cassat, Donnell, and Aitchison Residence Halls
- University Park Village Apartments
- Seminary Village for graduate theology students
Dining Services
The university offers flexible meal plan options with dining locations on campus. Meal plans are included in the room and board charges for residential students.
- Peters Commons main dining hall
- Multiple meal plan options available
- Additional meal blocks can be purchased as needed
Student Life at the University of Dubuque
Student Life at the University of Dubuque
Life at UD extends well beyond the classroom. With a close-knit campus community, students enjoy a wide range of clubs, organizations, cultural events, and athletic competitions. The university fosters an inclusive environment where students from diverse backgrounds come together.
Dubuque, Iowa: A Historic River City
Dubuque, Iowa: A Historic River City
Life in Dubuque
Dubuque is a vibrant river city of nearly 60,000 residents in northeastern Iowa, situated at the junction of Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. Known for its stunning bluffs, rich history, and growing arts and culture scene, the city offers students an affordable and welcoming community with easy access to outdoor recreation and urban amenities.
National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium
A Smithsonian-affiliated museum offering interactive exhibits on river ecology, history, and wildlife, located along the scenic riverfront.
Fenton Place Elevator
One of the shortest and steepest funicular railways in the world, originally built in 1882, rising 189 feet up the bluffs for panoramic river views.
Outdoor Recreation
Miles of hiking, biking, and walking trails wind through the bluffs and along the Mississippi, with the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area nearby.
Field of Dreams Movie Site
The iconic baseball field from the 1989 film is located about 25 miles west of Dubuque near Dyersville, drawing visitors from around the world.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Notable Employers and Industry Partners
Practical Information for Prospective Students
Practical Information for Prospective Students
For International Students
UD provides dedicated support for international students, including assistance with visa processing, cultural adjustment, and academic advising. Students from approximately 22 countries are part of the campus community.
International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency with a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 overall or a TOEFL iBT score of at least 70. Conditional admission may be available.
International students may be eligible for institutional scholarships and merit-based aid. Contact the admissions office for details on available funding and work-study opportunities.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Dubuque Rankings
University of Dubuque Rankings
The University of Dubuque is recognized in several national and regional rankings for its academic programs and commitment to student success. As a smaller private institution, UD is primarily ranked among regional universities in the Midwest.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Aviation / Flight Operations | Pilot Colleges | Top 100 Flight Schools in USA |
| Health and Physical Education | College Factual | Highest ranked major at UD |
| Overall Best Colleges | College Factual | #1,224 of 2,152 |
| Nursing | Niche / Student Reviews | Recognized as a top program at UD |
Features
Programs like Aviation, Nursing, Education, Business, Theology, and Criminal Justice report near-100% placement within six months .
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - June
Location
2000 University Ave. Dubuque IA, 52001
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