President David Cook, Innovate at Iowa State

Office of the President

Iowa State University is a national leader

  • #3

    in the nation among public university systems that deliver the highest student return on investment according to FREEOPP.

  • #1 in Iowa, Top 25% in the U.S.

    for student outcomes as measured by graduation rates and graduates' salaries according to the Wall Street Journal.

  • #9

    in the nation for undergraduate entrepreneurship programs by The Princeton Review.

  • Top 3%

    in the nation for research according to the National Science Foundation's Higher Education Research and Development survey.

  • Top 10%

    in the nation for college affordability by Money.com.

Innovation initiatives

Iowa State University is innovating, creating and communicating to make lives better in Iowa and beyond. By combining academic excellence with experiential learning, interdisciplinary programs and entrepreneurial opportunities, Iowa State graduates are ready to work - and ready to innovate - to meet today's industry needs and tomorrow's challenges.

Strategic Plan infuses innovation into Iowa State's future

Iowa State's nine-year strategic plan invites new ideas that help the university achieve what it aspires "to be."

Students at Commencement

You Belong Here

From its inaugural ceremony in 1869, Iowa State University has opened its doors to all students, providing access and opportunity to reach their full academic and personal potential. Today, Iowa State continues to support the educational success of all students and cultivate an environment where all members of the ISU community can thrive.