For many, earning a bachelor’s degree often depends on access. Geography, family needs or work schedules can make attending classes on a university campus unrealistic.

That’s why UNI partners with every community college in the state of Iowa to offer bachelor’s degrees in high-demand workforce areas. Through the UNI@IACC (UNI at Iowa Community Colleges) partnership, the University of Northern Iowa has built a statewide partnership with all 15 of Iowa’s community colleges to help students complete a UNI bachelor’s degree close to home. 

UNI’s collaboration with community colleges opens the door to bachelor’s degrees in high-need workforce areas including education, business, human services, management and criminal justice. Program offerings are continuously reviewed and aligned with the state’s workforce needs. All courses are taught by the same faculty who teach on the UNI campus, ensuring the same academic quality, credentials and outcomes.

Since expanding statewide in 2022, more than 1,200 students have worked toward a UNI bachelor’s degree online without visiting Cedar Falls. More than 90% of graduates – nearly half who are first-generation students – have remained in Iowa, helping meet workforce needs while strengthening local communities. 

The UNI@IACC partnership is designed specifically for placebound students – those balancing work, family and community commitments who may not be able to relocate to complete a four-year degree. Most may have already completed an associate’s degree from a local community college. 

“Many have a very good job, but now want to move up into a managerial position. Very often those job descriptions may say ‘bachelor’s degree required,’” explained UNI@IACC Director Paul Sapp to the Iowa Board of Regents. “They have families now and many obligations – but are coming back to get a bachelor’s degree.”

While UNI@IACC expanded statewide in recent years, the partnership itself has deep roots. UNI’s 2+2 program to offer a bachelor’s degree in elementary education began in 1996, making it the longest-running partnership between a university and a community college in the state of Iowa.

Together, UNI and Iowa’s community colleges continue to provide a proven, flexible pathway to a bachelor’s degree – strengthening Iowa’s workforce and keeping talent in communities across the state. Check out all the programs available through this partnership at iacc.uni.edu.