Overview of Buena Vista University
Buena Vista University (BVU), located in Storm Lake, Iowa, is a private university known for its commitment to providing a personalized and practical education. Established in 1891, BVU has a long history of preparing students for successful careers and engaged citizenship. The university’s distinctive features include its dedication to experiential learning, a strong sense of community, and a diverse range of academic programs.
Academic Programs: Buena Vista University offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. The university is organized into several academic schools, including the Harold Walter Siebens School of Business, the School of Education, and the School of Science. BVU provides majors and minors in fields such as business, education, arts and sciences, social sciences, and healthcare.
The faculty at BVU are dedicated educators who prioritize teaching and mentorship. The university’s commitment to small class sizes fosters an interactive learning environment, allowing students to engage with their professors and classmates in meaningful ways.
Experiential Learning and Real-World Application: One of BVU’s distinguishing features is its emphasis on experiential learning. The university integrates practical experiences into the academic curriculum, providing students with opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. Internships, research projects, and community engagement are integral components of BVU’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers.
The BVU Guarantee is a unique program that promises students the opportunity to complete at least two internships, research projects, or student teaching experiences during their time at the university. This initiative reflects BVU’s commitment to ensuring that students graduate with practical skills and real-world experience.
Community Engagement and Service: Buena Vista University values community engagement and service as essential components of the educational experience. The university encourages students to participate in service-learning projects, volunteer opportunities, and community service initiatives. BVU’s commitment to social responsibility is reflected in its efforts to instill a sense of civic engagement and ethical leadership in its students.
Global Engagement and Study Abroad: BVU recognizes the importance of global perspectives in today’s interconnected world. The university offers study abroad programs that allow students to explore different cultures, broaden their worldview, and gain international experiences. BVU’s commitment to global engagement aligns with its mission to prepare students for success in a diverse and globalized society.
Athletics and Student Life: Buena Vista University has a vibrant student life, with numerous extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations. The Beavers, BVU’s athletic teams, compete in NCAA Division III sports. Athletics contribute to school spirit, physical fitness, and a sense of community among students.
The Harold Walter Siebens Forum serves as a hub for student life, providing spaces for dining, socializing, and hosting events. Student organizations and clubs contribute to the overall campus culture, offering opportunities for leadership development, cultural exploration, and creative expression.
Campus and Facilities: BVU’s campus is situated on the shores of Storm Lake, providing a picturesque and serene setting for learning and living. The campus features modern facilities, including the Estelle Siebens Science Center, the Lamberti Recreation Center, and the William W. Siebens American Heritage Center. The diverse range of facilities supports academic, recreational, and cultural activities on campus.
Online Learning: Recognizing the evolving landscape of education, BVU offers online learning options. The university provides a variety of online courses and degree programs, allowing students to pursue their education in a flexible and accessible format. Online courses at BVU maintain the same commitment to academic excellence and practical relevance found in traditional on-campus programs.
Alumni Success: BVU has a proud and accomplished alumni network. Graduates of BVU can be found in various professions, including business, education, healthcare, and more. The university’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers and a life of purpose is reflected in the achievements of its alumni.
Innovation and Collaboration: Buena Vista University fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration. The university encourages interdisciplinary approaches to problem-solving and provides spaces for creative thinking and collaboration. Programs like the BVU Institute for Agriculture, Food, and Resource Management showcase BVU’s commitment to addressing real-world challenges through innovative solutions.
Sustainability Initiatives: BVU is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The university has implemented various initiatives, including energy-efficient practices, recycling programs, and sustainability-focused courses. The commitment to sustainable practices aligns with BVU’s broader mission of preparing students to be responsible global citizens.
Buena Vista University stands as a student-focused institution dedicated to providing a practical and personalized education. With its commitment to experiential learning, community engagement, and a diverse range of academic programs, BVU continues to play a vital role in shaping the educational experiences and future successes of its students.
610 W. Fourth Street Storm Lake, IA 50588
Phone: (800) 383-9600
Email: admissions@bvu.edu
Web site: http://www.bvu.edu
Rankings: Buena Vista University
Located in Lake, IA, Buena Vista University is one of the best universities in the state of Iowa. On this page, you will find in-depth rankings for Buena Vista University in the following areas: graduation rates, teaching resources, financing opportunities, and alumni donations. Latest acceptance rate is also given to show how competitive is Buena Vista University.
Buena Vista University is a private university located in Storm Lake, Iowa. Founded in 1891, the university has grown to become a top-ranked institution among Midwest universities. According to US News & World Report, Buena Vista University was ranked #7 among regional universities in the Midwest in 2021. In addition, it was also ranked as one of the best value schools and was ranked #3 for best undergraduate teaching. This ranking reflects Buena Vista University’s commitment to providing students with an excellent education and preparing them for their future careers.
The university offers more than 50 academic programs that provide students with a wide range of educational opportunities. These programs are designed to prepare students for success in their chosen fields, whether that be business, engineering, or the liberal arts. The faculty at Buena Vista is committed to providing students with an engaging learning experience that will help them reach their goals and develop skills necessary for success after graduation.
In addition to its academic excellence, Buena Vista is also known for its vibrant campus life and extracurricular activities. The university’s student organizations offer numerous opportunities for students to connect with like-minded individuals and find new ways to get involved on campus. From student government organizations to Greek life, there are plenty of ways for students to get involved and make meaningful connections throughout their college experience. With its commitment to excellence in academics and student life, Buena Vista University is an ideal choice for those looking for a high-quality education at an affordable price point.
| Rankings, Ratings, and Admissions Statistics | |
| Overall Ranking: | 11 |
| Score: | 75 |
| Peer college rating (out of 5) | 3.1 |
| Graduation and retention ranking: | 18 |
| Average freshman retention rate: | 72.5% |
| 6-year graduation rate: | 58.0% |
| Predicted graduation rate: | N/A |
| Overperformance(+)/Underperformance(-): | N/A |
| Faculty resources ranking: | 4 |
| Classes with under 20 students (2020): | 70.3% |
| Classes with 50 or more students (2020): | 0.3% |
| Student faculty ratio (2020): | 10:1 |
| Percent of faculty who are full-time (2020) | 89.5% |
| Student selectivity ranking: | 32 |
| SAT/ACT 25th-75th percentile (2020) | 19-25 |
| 2020 Freshmen in top 10 percent of high school class: | 12% |
| Freshmen in top 25 percent of high school class (2020): | 38% |
| Fall 2020 Acceptance rate: | 75.3% |
| Financial resources rank: | 2 |
| Alumni giving rank: | 64 |
| Average alumni giving rate (2020): | 9.7% |
Essential Facts: Buena Vista University
- Buena Vista University has a total undergraduate enrollment of 1,619, with a gender distribution of 35 percent male students and 65 percent female students.
- Buena Vista University competes in 21 intercollegiate sports at the varsity level. The university is a NCAA Division III institution and a member of the Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.
- Buena Vista University is a private institution that was founded in 1891. Buena Vista University’s ranking in the 2020 edition of Best Colleges is Regional Universities Midwest, #32.
Rules and regulations Sports Activities
| General Information | |
| Percent of undergraduate students who live in college-owned, operated, or affiliated housing: | 86% |
| Percent of undergraduates who are members of a fraternity: | 0% |
| Percent of student body who are members of a sorority: | 0% |
| Average percentage of students on campus during weekends: | 60% |
| Are all students permitted to have cars on campus? | Yes |
| Percent of students who have cars on campus: | 50% |
| Is alcohol permitted on campus for students of legal age? | Yes |
| Additional policies and regulations: | class attendance policies set by individual instructors, smoking prohibited |
| Collegiate athletic association: | NCAA III |
| Men’s scholarship sports: | N/A |
| Women’s scholarship sports: | N/A |
| Student activities: | campus ministries, choral groups, concert band, dance, drama/theater, international student organization, jazz band, music ensembles, musical theater, pep band, radio station, student government, student newspaper, television station |