History and Legacy
The history of Iowa State University exemplifies the development of land-grant universities. Established in 1858 under the Morrill Act, it was originally named the Iowa Agricultural College and Model Farm, making it one of the earliest institutions of higher learning in the United States to implement the “land-grant” concept.
The university’s founding is steeped in legend. Even before the land-grant legislation took effect, the Iowa State Legislature had already passed a resolution to establish an agricultural college, demonstrating the state’s foresight in agricultural education. After intense competition for the site, the college was ultimately established in Story County, which later developed into present-day Ames.
Throughout its long history, the institution underwent several name changes—from Iowa Agricultural College to Iowa State College of Agriculture and Mechanical Arts—before formally adopting the name Iowa State College of Science and Technology in 1959, commonly known as Iowa State University. In 1879, it established the nation’s first state-supported veterinary college, a pioneering achievement that cemented its leadership in veterinary medicine. Today, the university motto “Science with Practice” continues to guide its educational direction, emphasizing the close integration of theory and practice.
Academic Reputation and Rankings
Iowa State University holds a significant position in the global higher education landscape. As a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU), a consortium of top North American universities, it is classified by the Carnegie Foundation as a top-tier Research University (R1).
ISU excels particularly in specialized disciplines. Its veterinary medicine and statistics programs rank #1 nationally—the university’s oldest and strongest fields. Bioengineering and agricultural engineering rank #2 in the U.S., while aerospace engineering, civil engineering, materials engineering, and numerous other engineering programs consistently place within the top 30 nationally. In design disciplines, Architecture and Landscape Architecture rank 13th and 8th nationally, respectively, underscoring the strength of its College of Design. Its business school also ranks 50th in the U.S. News Best Business Schools list.
In comprehensive rankings, Iowa State University placed 63rd among U.S. institutions and 167th globally in the 2021 CWUR World University Rankings. The university has produced two Nobel laureates, including Dan Shechtman, winner of the 2011 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Notable alumni include former U.S. Vice President Henry A. Wallace and Vince D. Kauffman, Chairman of Lockheed Martin.
Research Strength and Innovation
Iowa State University’s research prowess is evident in its deep collaborations with national and industrial partners. The university is the birthplace of the world’s first computer, the Atanasoff-Berry Computer, a pioneering achievement that altered the course of human history. The Ames National Laboratory, jointly managed by the university and the U.S. Department of Energy, participated in the renowned Manhattan Project during World War II, making significant contributions to the Allied victory. Notably, among the few national laboratories in the United States, Ames is the only one located on a university campus.
In technology commercialization, ISU consistently ranks among the nation’s leading universities. Recent years have seen bold research transformations in critical fields including agricultural biotechnology, plant and animal genetic engineering, bioinformatics, agricultural product and market development, human nutrition, human-computer interaction, bio-recycling, and food safety. This ability to translate cutting-edge research into practical applications embodies the university’s motto: “Knowledge and Action as One.”
The university also boasts several world-renowned professors, including John Atanasoff, inventor of the first electronic computer; Dan Shechtman, 2011 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry; Jane Smiley, 1992 Pulitzer Prize winner; and Theodore Schultz, 1979 Nobel Laureate in Economics. The convergence of these academic giants provides a continuous source of momentum for ISU’s scientific research and innovation.
Geographic Location and Urban Resources
Iowa State University is located in Ames, Iowa, a quintessential Midwestern college town. Ames is renowned as one of America’s safest cities and ranks among the nation’s most livable communities. With low unemployment and high average personal income, the city exudes a vibrant artistic atmosphere and dynamic energy.
Geographically, Ames is conveniently located just a 40-minute drive from Des Moines, the state capital. As Iowa’s economic hub focused on trade and finance, Des Moines offers students ample internship and career opportunities. The city maintains a relatively low cost of living, with distinct seasons characterized by hot, humid summers and snowy, cold winters.
The campus itself spans approximately 1,984 acres and features over 160 buildings, many of which are National Register-listed historic structures. The Stanton Memorial Bell Tower, situated on the Campanile Campus, stands as the university’s most iconic landmark, serving as a must-visit spot for students and visitors alike. The campus boasts scenic beauty, ranking among the 25 most beautiful campuses in the United States. Its landscaped environment provides students with a pleasant space for both study and daily life.
Employment and Career Development
Iowa State University demonstrates strong employment competitiveness. According to IDP data, approximately 95% of graduates secure employment within six months of graduation, with many others pursuing further studies.Buy a Diploma
The university offers dedicated career development services providing comprehensive support for student employment. Each of ISU’s 10 colleges maintains specialized student employment teams responsible for collecting and analyzing key data including full-time salaries, internship wages, employment rates, and interview statistics. The university also regularly hosts workshops covering career research, resume building, interview techniques, connecting with target companies, and negotiation skills to enhance students’ employability.
For Chinese international students, ISU is one of the U.S. institutions recognized by China’s Ministry of Education, offering distinct advantages for employment upon returning home. The university’s extensive alumni network spans diverse industries, providing valuable connections and career development support for current students and graduates. ISU graduates from China are widely recognized by employers in fields such as engineering, business, and design.
