Briar Cliff University
Sioux City, Iowa 51104
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for biology — close-knit campus
Briar Cliff University is a private institution in Sioux City with particular strength in biology and health sciences.
A small campus of 626 undergraduates with a 12:1 student-faculty ratio. The urban location puts students at the center of city life.
49% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $54,475 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $21,590.
More About This School
Varsity Sports — Chargers
History & Fun Facts
- •They were led by Sister Mary Servatius Greenen, who was named the first president.
- •Briar Cliff University dedication, 1930 On September 18, 1930, the college, named after the hill on which it is located, was dedicated.
- •In 1937, the university's two-year program was extended to four years.
- •Fifty-five men were admitted to Briar Cliff in 1965 and co-education was formalized in 1966 with the admission of 150 full-time male students.
- •In 1967, the campus added the residence hall Toller to the facilities available to students, and continued in 1968 with the addition of Noonan Hall.
Source: Wikipedia
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Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
45.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
3.7%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$15,506
Programs (63)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
60%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
4
Peer Average
3
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus security, emergency notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from IA state average + city premium