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Upper Iowa University and Mercy College of Health Sciences are both private nonprofit institutions — Upper Iowa University in Fayette, IA and Mercy College of Health Sciences in Des Moines, IA. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Fayette, IA · Private
Acceptance rate: 96.5%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,994
Tuition: $19,475/year
Student-faculty ratio: 25.0:1
Graduation rate: 33.9%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Psychology, Education
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Fayette, IA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Psychology.
Des Moines, IA · Private
Acceptance rate: 99.7%
Undergrad enrollment: 867
Tuition: $17,664/year
Student-faculty ratio: 7.0:1
Graduation rate: 65.5%
Top programs: Health professions
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Des Moines, IA with published program strength in Health professions.
| Factor | Upper Iowa University | Mercy College of Health Sciences |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 96.5% | 99.7% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1090 average |
| 980 average |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 17–23 | 16–21 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 1,994 | 867 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $19,475/year | $17,664/year |
| Average net price after aid | $20,942 | $26,924 |
| Graduation rate | 33.9% | 65.5% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $52,766 | $62,234 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 25.0:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Fayette, IA | Des Moines, IA |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Psychology, Education | Health professions |
Upper Iowa University is more selective (96.5% vs 99.7% acceptance rate). Upper Iowa University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($20,942 vs $26,924). Mercy College of Health Sciences reports the higher graduation rate (65.5% vs 33.9%). Upper Iowa University is the larger undergraduate campus (1,994 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Upper Iowa University and Mercy College of Health Sciences
Upper Iowa University has an acceptance rate of 96.5%; Mercy College of Health Sciences is around 99.7%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Upper Iowa University tuition is $19,475/year. Mercy College of Health Sciences is $17,664/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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