Undergraduate Students
Whether you’re earning your degree on our Storm Lake Campus or through one of our locations in Iowa, or online — you will build something amazing with a BVU undergraduate degree.
Undergraduate Degree Options
- On Campus
- Online
On Campus
See What You Will Experience
At Buena Vista University, you won’t come here just to sit in a big lecture hall with hundreds of other students.
You’ll experience hands-on learning in state-of-the-art facilities, and you might even get paid to do it. That’s right, whether you’re into agriculture, marching band, esports, or more, you can find a scholarship that is fit for you.
Discover our Experiences
We are dedicated to getting you the answers you need to help your students through the college search process. Take a look at a collection of resources for families and counselors.
Family ResourcesCounselor ResourcesCollege Planning Workbook
How to Apply to BVU
- Complete our online application or the Common Application
- Send your high school transcript to BVU
We also accept GED or HiSet Submit your official SAT or ACT score
(requirement WAIVED for 2024-25)- Send official college transcripts, from every institution you have attended, to BVU
- Talk to your BVU admissions counselor and schedule a visit. This can be done at any time!
Ask a Student
Get real answers to your questions about academic programs and college life at Buena Vista University, directly from our students! Learn about the undergrad experience on our Storm Lake campus.
Chat with a Student
Video of academics and activities: we’re devoted to your success from start to finish—because we’re Beavers, and Beavers build. Explore BVU Video
Visit Campus
BVU is more than a university. As a student, BVU is your community and a home away from home. To truly experience what life is like here, you have to see for yourself.
If you are entering BVU in the Fall, make an on-campus visit now and receive a $1,000-per-year BVU scholarship!
Visit and together we can build a future worthy of your dreams.
Schedule a VisitSee Programs and MajorsON CAMPUS & ONLINE
Affordable College
Ranked a Best Value School among regional universities in the Midwest by U.S. News and World Report 2022, BVU is committed to keeping college tuition affordable — that’s why 100% of our students who apply for financial aid receive it. So whatever you love, we’ll give you all the support you need to pursue it.
Tuition & Fees Scholarships & Financial Aid
Athletics
Become a Beaver. Get an instant family by joining a sport at BVU. Nearly half of our students are involved in athletics — and it’s for good reason. There’s something to say for bonding with teammates on the field and on road trips near and far. Interested? Our coaches want to talk to YOU.
RecruitmentAccepted Senior Overnights
Have you been accepted to BVU for next fall? Join us for an Accepted Senior Overnight! Sit in on a class, meet with professors, admissions, and others based on your interests. Register to Attend
Online
How to Apply to BVU (Online Students)
- Complete the Online Application. Apply >
- Request that official transcript(s) from each college or university previously attended be sent to BVU.
Send to:
Admissions
Buena Vista University
610 West 4th St.
Storm Lake, IA 50588
Without official transcripts and records, a student will not be allowed to register beyond the initial semester.
- If you will be applying for financial assistance including student loans, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.fafsa.gov. When you file, be sure to use Buena Vista University's code: 001847.
Earn Your Degree Your Way
BVU’s online learning options allow you to earn your degree without uprooting your life. You will earn the same high-quality, personalized education, regardless of where you study. These flexible courses empower students of all ages and life situations to earn a degree, advance their careers, and pursue their dreams—all with the benefits of the supportive BVU community.
Learn Online
See Programs and MajorsONLINE
Affordable College
We're committed to making high quality private education affordable for you. More than $14 million in institutional gift aid was awarded this year to our students and 75 percent of our financial aid is made up of grants and scholarships.
Online Tuition & Fees Undergraduate Financial AidCommunity College Partners
We have seamless transfer agreements with community colleges across Iowa. Find out how you can earn your bachelor's degree through BVU, close to home!
Learn more
The next step to becoming a BVU student is to apply! There is no essay or application fee, and we accept on a rolling basis.
Find out how to apply for aid and see what grants and scholarships are available to you as a hybrid or online student.
Apply
No essay or application fee, and we accept on a rolling basis. Know if you’re accepted two weeks later. Fill out a housing application if you plan to live on campus.
Apply
Deposit
When you know, you know. $200 will secure your spot at BVU so you can begin planning all that you want to participate in and accomplish at college.
Deposit
Virtual Tour
Explore our picturesque 60-acre campus, located on the shores of Storm Lake in northwest Iowa. Discover the value and lifelong benefits of our liberal arts institution.
Tour
Housing Application
We want to match you up with the best fit possible, so be honest! Just how late do you like to study, and which residence hall is your first choice?
Housing AppThe FAFSA is your key to federal and state scholarships and financial aid. When you file, be sure to use Buena Vista University’s code: 001847. File the FAFSA
Find Your Program
Explore your future potential through our wide selection of outstanding undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
- Accounting
Become the numbers expert you’re made to be when you learn to develop, interpret, and communicate data in any organizational setting.
Learn More - Agricultural Business
From managing production risk, to operating your own business, to analyzing ag loans, BVU’s Ag Business degree sets you up for success in today’s fast-paced environment.
Learn More - Agricultural Education
Gain the skills and knowledge to teach agriculture science and business for traditional classrooms, as well as Extension and virtual environments. Spread your passion for agriculture on to the next generation.
Learn More - Agricultural Science
Dive into an agronomy and animal science curriculum that explores the science behind production and research practices that feed, clothe, and fuel the world.
Learn More - All Social Science for Secondary Education Degree
Education Bachelor's Degree Program The All Social Science for Secondary Education program will prepare students for a teaching career working with adolescent and young adult learners.
Learn More - Animation
Animation students begin their academic career by building a foundation in traditional art and then focusing on advanced courses in the art of animated storytelling.
Learn More - Art Education
An art education degree prepares future educators to teach art in grades K-12.
Learn More - Art Therapy
The pre-professional art therapy major prepares students to apply to graduate programs in art therapy.
Learn More - Biology
Develop exceptional professional competency by studying biology at BVU.
Learn More - Biomedical Sciences
The biomedical sciences bachelor’s degree program is fundamentally focused on the health sciences as a whole but leaves ample room for development of outside interests that enhance an application for professional schools.
Learn More - Business
With strong foundational classes, BVU’s business major offers concentrations in management, marketing, sports business, ...
Learn More - Communication Studies
Learn how to tune yourself to the important relationship building that happens through our interactions with others.
Learn More - Computer Science
A computer science degree prepares you for a career in software development, computer security, robotics, information technology, and more.
Learn More - Corporate Mathematics
Corporate math teaches you the quantitative, analytical, and critical thinking skills needed to excel in today’s data-driven corporate environment.
Learn More - Criminology and Criminal Justice
Make a difference in society by studying criminology.
Learn More - Digital Media
Students who major in digital media are prepared to become professional multimedia storytellers.
Learn More - Educational Studies
Designed for students who have an interest in an education-oriented career beyond becoming a licensed teacher.
Learn More - Elementary Education
An elementary education major prepares future teachers to teach grades kindergarten through six.
Learn More - English Secondary Education Degree
Education Bachelor’s Degree Program The English language arts for secondary education program will prepare pre-service teachers to enter the teaching field...
Learn More - English
With a degree in English, you will study the language, stories, and poetry that shape our lives. English students sharpen their communication skills and explore literature, critical theory, cultural studies, and creative writing. Prepare for careers in a world shaped increasingly by the powers of text, imagination, and tale.
Learn More - Game Design
BVU’s game design serves students who aspire to join the video game industry video game industry as artists, animators, programmers, directors, sound engineers, writers, etc.
Learn More - Gender Studies
The gender studies minor seeks to enable students to develop an understanding of women and other marginalized groups by considering perspectives of the past, present, and future.
Learn More - General - Distributive
Designed for students who are undecided on a major or whose academic interests do not coincide with a single department or discipline, this interdisciplinary major offers an exciting student-designed alternative.
Learn More - Graphic Design
The graphic design major prepares students to practice graphic design professionally in print, interactive, and motion design.
Learn More - History
The history major and minor at BVU focus on the human story: people’s experiences in the past, the choices they made, and the impact on future generations.
Learn More - Human Services
BVU’s human services major uses an interdisciplinary approach to prepare students to work in the social services industry.
Learn More - International Students Admissions
Welcome to your new home away from home.
Learn More - Kinesiology and Exercise Science
BVU’s kinesiology and exercise science bachelor’s degree provides students with a comprehensive and proactive academic and clinical education so that they can seek careers in a wide variety of health-related professions.
Learn More - Master of Arts in Teaching - Secondary Education
This online master’s program equips individuals with the knowledge, skills, and certification necessary to effectively teach students in secondary schools in Iowa.
Learn More - Master of Arts in Teaching – Special Education
This online master’s program equips individuals with the knowledge, skills, and certification necessary to effectively teach students with unique needs in Iowa.
Learn More - Master of Education – Special Education
This online master’s in special education program is intended to advance the skills of practicing professionals.
Learn More - Master of Education – Teacher Leadership Curriculum Instruction
The online Master of Education – Teacher Leadership, Curriculum, and Instruction program provides four tracks designed for working teachers seeking to advance their career in the classroom.
Learn More - Master of Education in Educational Administration
This online master’s program equips currently licensed educators with the knowledge, skills, and certification necessary to effectively lead their K-12 school administration.
Learn More - Master of Science in Education – Clinical Mental Health Counseling
This CACREP-accredited program prepares students to address the growing need for accessible, professional mental health services.
Learn More - Master of Science in Education – Professional School Counseling
BVU’s master’s in school counseling equips you to make a difference in elementary, middle, and high schools. Professional school counselors promote growth, enhance learning, and contribute to student success.
Learn More - Mathematics
Become the numbers expert you’re made to be when you learn to develop, interpret, and communicate data in any organizational setting.
Learn More - Music Production and Technology
With the explosion of electronic devices and Internet access, music and video is used by just about everyone.
Learn More - Nursing 3+1 Program
Buena Vista University and Mercy College of Health Sciences offer an accelerated 3+1 nursing program that allows students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in four years without leaving the BVU campus.
Learn More - Organizational Communication
Prepare for careers that demand an intricate understanding of human interaction in both interpersonal and organizational settings.
Learn More - Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership
The master’s in organizational leadership provides the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively lead people in an ever-changing work environment and can be completed in as few as 1.5 years.
Learn More - Organizational Leadership
This organizational leadership program provides the cross-disciplinary tools and skills necessary...
Learn More - Physical Education and Coaching
Students majoring in physical education and coaching learn in a variety of contexts.
Learn More - Physics Engineering Program
As a physics engineering student at BVU, you’ll have access to a dual degree engineering program partnered with Washington University in St. Louis.
Learn More - Plus One Programs Overview
Already a Beaver? If a master’s degree is in your future, BVU has unique programs that can save you time and money.
Learn More - Political Science
Political science majors are, by nature, curious and ambitious people who seek an understanding of public problems and potential solutions.
Learn More - Pre-Law
As a pre-law major at BVU, you’ll gain a competitive edge through engaging courses taught by expert faculty, co-curricular activities, internships, leadership opportunities, and unique professional development experiences.
Learn More - Psychology
As a psychology major, study the cognition and behavior of humans and animals from an empirical, research-based perspective.
Learn More - Public Relations
Whether in business, politics, sports, or the arts, effective communication campaigns are the foundation of success.
Learn More - Rehabilitation Health Sciences
Learn from biology and exercise science faculty who will help prepare you for careers in physical therapy, occupational therapy, or athletic training.
Learn More - Scientific Illustration
At BVU the experience and practice of the visual arts is an interdisciplinary pursuit.
Learn More - Secondary Education
Secondary education students find their passion in a certifiable teaching subject with their desire to become a licensed educator in grades 5-12.
Learn More - Social Innovation
BVU’s social innovation minor is designed to heighten students’ abilities and commitments to collaboratively ...
Learn More - Social Science with Teaching Licensure (5-12) Degree
Guide the next generation as they explore the complexities of society, geography, and human relationships as a social science major.
Learn More - Social Work
As a social work major, help people by looking at the challenges of their lives and environment and then working to bring about change using their strengths.
Learn More - Spanish
The Spanish major enables students to become better communicators and more globally aware citizens.
Learn More - Studio Art
At BVU, the experience and practice of the visual arts is an interdisciplinary pursuit.
Learn More
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On Campus: Meet Your Counselors
On Campus: Meet Your Academic Recruitment Specialists
Additional Resources
We are dedicated to getting you the answers you need to help your students through the college search process. Take a look at a collection of resources for families and counselors.
REQUEST INFORMATION
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Experience what college should be at BVU.
