Waldorf University
Waldorf University is a private nonprofit university in Forest City, IA ranked #1858 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of C-, enrolling about 1,827 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 77.0%. Students most often pursue Fire Protection and Human Resources Management and Services.
Academically, students benefit from a 22:1 student-faculty ratio, 44.1% first-year retention, and 21.1% six-year graduation. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
Families typically invest $19,693, about $2,695 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -35.9%, roughly 121.2 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $50,515. That's about $6,827 higher than national results. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Waldorf University has an acceptance rate of 77.0%, annual tuition of $25,978, average net price of $19,693, and a national rank of #1858 (Grade C-), with a 21.1% six-year graduation rate, about 1,827 undergraduates, and median earnings of $50,515 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Who is Waldorf University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Waldorf University graduates 21.1% of students within six years and keeps 44.1% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Waldorf University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $25,978 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,286 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $9,920 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $8,132 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $39,675 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 35.5% of Waldorf University students receive Pell Grants — in line with the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $16,448 to $23,667 depending on family income. Use Waldorf University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $21,244/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $23,667/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $50,515
- 10-Year Median Earnings $50,515
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $12,025
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 54.5%
- Employment Rate 91.6%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Waldorf University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Waldorf University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Waldorf University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Waldorf University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Waldorf University graduates earn $50,515 median, the -35.9% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
- SAT Math Not reported
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite Not reported
- SAT & ACTNot required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 1,827
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 44.1%
- Graduation Rate 21.1%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 22:1
How to Get Into Waldorf University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Waldorf University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 77.0%, Waldorf University is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: With a 77.0% acceptance rate, Waldorf University is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Waldorf University undergraduates. Quality Control and Safety Technologies/Technician, Business/Commerce, General, and Homeland Security draw the most students.
- Quality Control and Safety Technologies/Technician 24.3%
- Business/Commerce, General 15.1%
- Homeland Security 13.5%
- Psychology, General 11.8%
- Fire Protection 10.6%
- Human Resources Management and Services 6.9%
See more majors
- Health and Medical Administrative Services 6.8%
- Criminal Justice and Corrections 4.6%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Fire Protection $100,301
- 2. Fire Protection $79,231
- 3. Human Resources Management and Services $75,847
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Homeland Security $66,446
- 5. Quality Control and Safety Technologies/Technicians $65,908
- 6. Quality Control and Safety Technologies/Technicians $65,381
- 7. Business/Commerce, General $56,963
- 8. Criminal Justice and Corrections $53,890
- 9. Psychology, General $47,938
- 10. Health and Medical Administrative Services $46,923
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $64,605
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Fire Protection grads earn $100,301—114% more than Health and Medical Administrative Services ($46,923). Graduate: Business Administration, Management and Operations programs lead with $64,605 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Waldorf University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services (Bachelor's Degree, 12 graduates)
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Bachelor's Degree, 8 graduates)
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness (Bachelor's Degree, 7 graduates)
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 3 graduates)
- Teaching Assistants/Aides (Bachelor's Degree, 2 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (10 programs)â–¼
- Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Biology, General
- Teaching Assistants/Aides
- Music
- History
- English Language and Literature, General
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 1,827
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 62.9%
- Female Students 37.1%
- Caucasian 57.3%
- Asian 1.6%
- Hispanic 3.6%
- Black 16.3%
- Pell Grant Recipients 35.5%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Waldorf University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Waldorf University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Waldorf University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Waldorf University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Men make up 62.9% of undergraduates.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Waldorf University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Waldorf University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Waldorf University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -35.9% ROI. Ranked #1858 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $19,693 annual net price is moderately higher than state schools, offset somewhat by $50,515 median earnings. With 21.1% graduating within six years and 44.1% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Waldorf University's Positioning
With a C- grade and #1858 ranking, Waldorf University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $19,693 annually, Waldorf University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 44.1% retention rate suggests students value this environment.
Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $13,785 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The -35.9% ROI and $50,515 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $9,693+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Waldorf University ranks #1858 of 6101 institutions, with 627 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 21.1% six-year graduation rate sits 41.4 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 44.1% first-year retention is 32.7 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- -35.9% return on investment is 121.2 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $50,515 run about 16% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $19,693 is roughly $2,296 higher than the national median of $17,397.
Helpfulness for Students
- 22:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 44.1% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 91.6% employment rate within three years sits 23.4 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $19,693 is about $2,296 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 35.5% trails the national share by 3.6 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Waldorf University, a private nonprofit university in Forest City, IA, secures a C- grade in our latest review. It stands at #1858 among 6101 schools Grades by category break down as Completion D+, Support D+, Career Outcomes B+, and Affordability B.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
Student momentum is strong: 44.1% retention and 21.1% six-year graduation. Return on investment currently measures -35.9% for this program.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $19,693 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $39,675.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $19,982 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $12,025 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 35.5% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Median earnings come in near $50,515 six years after enrollment. Compared with the national median, that's 16% higher.
Employment outcomes report about 91.6% of alumni working within three years.
Plan around an ROI of about -35.9% according to the Scorecard data.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
77.0% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Waldorf University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Waldorf University's acceptance rate?
Waldorf University's acceptance rate is 77.0%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Waldorf University cost?
At Waldorf University, listed tuition and fees are $25,978 per year, and the average net price after aid is $19,693. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Waldorf University's ranking?
Waldorf University ranks #1858 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of C-, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Waldorf University's graduation rate?
At Waldorf University, the six-year graduation rate is 21.1%, and first-year retention is 44.1%.
What are Waldorf University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Waldorf University report median earnings of $50,515 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Waldorf University's student population?
Waldorf University enrolls about 1,827 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Forest City, IA 50436-1713
- Website www.waldorf.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationHigher Learning Commission (NCACHE)