LUTHER COLLEGE, DECORAH, IA
Nestled in the scenic Driftless Region of Decorah, Iowa, Luther College is 600 acres of natural beauty. Known for its strong focus on sustainability and the arts, Luther offers students a balanced education steeped in tradition and innovation.
Quick Facts:
• Type: Private
• Undergraduate Enrollment: 1,463
• Admit Rate: 73%
• Financial Aid Forms Required: FAFSA
• Retention Rate: 79%
• Average Class Size: 15
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Curriculum Highlights:
• Top Programs: Biology, Music, Education, Environmental Studies, Business Administration, and Nursing (with seniors interning at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN)
• Newly redefined Core Values include: Excellence, Inclusivity, Curiosity, Sustainability, and Community
• Luther emphasizes a global perspective, with over 60% of students studying abroad
Environmental stewardship is a cornerstone of the curriculum. Students engage with sustainability-focused coursework and initiatives, such as the college’s wind turbine and solar farm
• Paideia Program focuses on first year experience program focused on developing critical thinking and communication skills across disciplines
• Follows a “flexible” common core curriculum
• J Terms available
• Music plays an important role on campus with multiple choirs and opportunities for students of all majors to participate (Fun Fact for parents: Dave Matthews released a live album recorded here in the late 90s)
• Nordic studies program is considered among the best in the country
Student Body:
• While affiliated with the Methodist Church, students shared that all are welcome, at the time of our tour, they reported about 1/2 of students identified as other than Christian
• Attracts students who value community, service, and a global mindset.
• Over 120 clubs and organizations offer something for everyone, from intramural sports to environmental activism
• Attract students from 40 states and 70 countries
• About 10% of students participate in Greek Life, which focuses on service and leadership
• Outdoor enthusiasts thrive here, with plenty of trails and parks and a river to explore
• Luther Norse teams compete in NCAA Division III in the America Rivers Conference. Their rivals are Warthog and Coe College. Particularly strong in swim and dive
Admissions Process:
• Holistic admissions process
• Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and students are encouraged to highlight their leadership, service, and extracurricular achievements
Financials:
• Need and merit offered, with merit up to $30,000 annually
• About 90% of students receive some form of financial aid
photo courtesy Luther College
