Sheldon, Iowa — Northwest Iowa Community College (NCC) officials tell us that the Sheldon school has been named #3 in University Magazine’s 2026 list of “Best Online Colleges in Iowa.”
NCC officials say the statewide recognition spans all online providers—including community colleges, four-year colleges, and universities—and underscores NCC’s long-standing leadership in flexible, affordable online education.
University Magazine’s 2026 list of Best Online Colleges in Iowa includes:
1. Southeastern Community College – Iowa
2. Upper Iowa University
3. Northwest Iowa Community College
4. Eastern Iowa Community College
5. Waldorf University
According to University Magazine, “Northwest Iowa Community College has become a leader in delivering affordable online degree programs in Iowa. As part of the Best Online College in Iowa 2026, it offers flexible scheduling, accredited coursework, and dedicated faculty support. Students can complete associate degrees or certificates in career-focused fields, preparing for immediate employment or transfer to four-year universities. Its commitment to affordability, high-quality teaching, and student success makes it a reliable choice for both young learners and working adults.”
NCC officials tell us that online learning has been part of NCC’s story for more than 25 years, steadily growing each year to meet the needs of students. During the 2024–25 academic year, more than 2,200 students—about 77% of NCC’s total enrollment—took at least one online course, accounting for nearly 19,000 credit hours. Many combined online learning with on-campus classes.
For a complete list of University Magazine’s 2026 “Best Online Colleges in Iowa,” you can click here:
https://www.universitymagazine.ca/best-online-colleges-in-iowa/
KIWA Staff Photo
