PrivateTownLuther College
Luther Norse
Decorah, Iowa 52101-1045
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for health sciences — close-knit campus
Luther College is a private institution in Decorah with particular strength in health sciences and biology. With an average SAT of 1238, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A small campus of 1.5K undergraduates with a 10:1 student-faculty ratio. The town location creates a classic college-town feel.
75% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $59,850 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $25,635.
Rankings
More About This School
Varsity Sports — Iowa Intercollegiate
History & Fun Facts
- •History On October 10, 1857, the Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran Church (NELC) created a seminary to supply ministers for Norwegian congregations in the Upper Midwest.
- •Until the seminary was established in 1861, students studied at Concordia Seminary in St.
- •On October 14, 1859, Peter Laurentius Larsen was appointed professor to the Norwegian students at Concordia by the NELC.
- •On September 1, 1861, classes officially began with an enrollment of 16.
- •The following year classes moved to Decorah, Iowa, with NELC pastor Ulrik Vilhelm Koren successfully arranging the college's relocation and permanent settlement.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1238
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
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
40.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
4.1%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$22,200
Programs (43)
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
79%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
9
Peer Average
13
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