| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Law & Legal Studies | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
History and Heritage:
Founded by Bishop Mathias Loras, the first bishop of the Diocese of Dubuque, Loras College has a rich history rooted in Catholic traditions.
Originally called Saint Raphael Seminary, it later became Loras College in honor of its founder.
Location:
City: Dubuque, Iowa.
Dubuque is a historic and vibrant city located along the Mississippi River, offering a safe, welcoming environment and access to cultural and outdoor activities.
Type of Institution:
Private, co-educational liberal arts college.
Affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church.
Campus Size:
The campus spans 65 acres, featuring modern facilities, historic architecture, and beautiful landscapes.
Accreditation:
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Recognized for its academic rigor and focus on experiential learning.
Student Population:
Approximately 1,400 students, allowing for a small and close-knit community.
Students come from across the United States and several international countries.
Academic Programs:
Loras offers 40+ undergraduate majors, 12 pre-professional tracks, and several graduate programs.
Popular areas of study include business, biology, education, psychology, engineering, and media studies.
Core Values:
Loras College emphasizes Catholic intellectual traditions, ethical leadership, diversity, and community engagement, aiming to prepare students for meaningful lives and careers.
Undergraduate Programs:
Offers a strong liberal arts curriculum, allowing students to gain critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Popular majors include Biology, Business Administration, Education, Engineering, and Criminal Justice.
Graduate Programs:
Offers master’s programs in:
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Business Analytics
Coaching Leadership
Pre-Professional Tracks:
Pre-Med
Pre-Law
Pre-Dental
Pre-Pharmacy
Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Internship and Research Opportunities:
Loras places a strong emphasis on hands-on learning through internships, service-learning, and undergraduate research.
Study Abroad Programs:
Offers opportunities to study in countries such as Ireland, Spain, Italy, and Australia.
Semester-long and short-term international programs are available.
Residential Campus:
Loras is a residential college, and most students live on campus.
Housing options include traditional residence halls, apartments, and suites.
Clubs and Organizations:
More than 60 student-led organizations, including academic clubs, service groups, cultural organizations, and recreational clubs.
Popular clubs include Student Union, Loras College Dance Marathon, and the Gaming Club.
Athletics:
Loras College is part of NCAA Division III and competes in the American Rivers Conference (ARC).
Offers 23 varsity sports for men and women, including soccer, basketball, track and field, and wrestling.
Strong intramural and club sports programs for non-varsity athletes.
Community Engagement:
Service is a core value at Loras. Students participate in numerous volunteer activities, community outreach programs, and service-learning projects.
Arts and Culture:
The campus has a vibrant arts scene with opportunities in theater, music, and visual arts.
Regular performances, art exhibits, and cultural events are hosted on campus.
Religious Life:
As a Catholic institution, Loras provides opportunities for spiritual growth through:
Campus ministry
Daily mass and prayer services
Retreats and service trips
Interfaith activities for students of all religious backgrounds
Acceptance Rate:
Approximately 75%, making it moderately selective.
Application Process:
Students can apply through the Loras College Application or the Common Application.
Required materials include high school transcripts, a personal statement, and at least one letter of recommendation.
Test-Optional: SAT/ACT scores are optional but can strengthen an application.
Deadlines:
Early Action: November 1
Regular Decision: Rolling admissions
International Students:
Loras welcomes students from across the globe and provides dedicated support for visa processing, orientation, and cultural adjustment.
International applicants must provide English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo).
Tuition Fees:
Undergraduate tuition: Approximately $38,000 per year.
Room and board: Approximately $10,500 – $12,000 per year.
Scholarships and Aid:
Loras offers generous merit-based scholarships ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 per year.
Need-based financial aid and grants are also available.
Additional scholarships are available for athletics, music, and community service.
U.S. News & World Report:
Ranked among the Top Regional Colleges in the Midwest.
Niche.com:
Rated B+ overall, with high marks for academics, campus life, and value.
Washington Monthly:
Recognized for its commitment to community service and student outcomes.
Career Placement:
Loras College boasts a 95% career placement rate within 6 months of graduation.
Top Employers:
Alumni work at organizations such as Mayo Clinic, Deloitte, IBM, and various school districts and nonprofit organizations.
Graduate Success:
Many students pursue advanced degrees at prestigious universities, including the University of Iowa and Notre Dame.
Loras College offers more than 40 undergraduate majors, along with minors and interdisciplinary fields of study. Some of the popular undergraduate programs are:
1. Business and Economics:
Accounting
Business Analytics
Finance
Management
Marketing
2. Social Sciences:
Criminal Justice
Economics
Political Science
Psychology
Sociology
3. Natural Sciences and Mathematics:
Biology
Biochemistry
Chemistry
Neuroscience
Environmental Science
Engineering
Mathematics
4. Arts and Humanities:
English (Creative Writing and Literature)
History
Media Studies
Philosophy
Religious Studies
Spanish
Music
Theater
5. Education:
Elementary Education
Secondary Education
Special Education
6. Health Sciences:
Kinesiology
Pre-Physical Therapy
Pre-Medical Studies
Loras College offers several master’s degree programs designed for working professionals and recent graduates:
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling:
Focus on providing mental health services and counseling.
Prepares students for licensure as mental health counselors.
Master of Science in Business Analytics:
Emphasizes data analysis and decision-making in business contexts.
Master of Arts in Coaching Leadership:
Designed for professionals pursuing leadership roles in sports or coaching.
For students planning to pursue careers in specialized fields, Loras College offers pre-professional advising tracks that prepare them for further study and professional certifications:
Pre-Medicine
Pre-Dentistry
Pre-Law
Pre-Pharmacy
Pre-Engineering (3+2 dual-degree program with partner universities)
Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Pre-Physical Therapy
Pre-Occupational Therapy
Pre-Theology
Liberal Arts Core Curriculum:
All students complete the liberal arts core, focusing on critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and effective communication.
Interdisciplinary Programs:
Students can combine fields of study to create personalized majors and minors.
Study Abroad Opportunities:
Loras College offers programs in Ireland, Spain, South Africa, and more.
Short-term international service trips and semester-long programs are available.
Honors Program:
Designed for high-achieving students, providing opportunities for research, leadership, and advanced study.
Hands-On Learning:
Many programs include internships, research projects, service-learning, and experiential opportunities to prepare students for real-world challenges.
Small Class Sizes:
A student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1 ensures personalized attention and mentorship.
Emphasis on Ethics and Leadership:
Rooted in its Catholic tradition, Loras College integrates ethics, service, and leadership into its academic programs.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Accounting |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Biochemistry |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Biology |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Business Administration |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Business Analytics |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Criminal Justice |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Elementary Education |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Engineering |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
English (Creative Writing) |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Environmental Science |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Finance |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
History |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Kinesiology |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Marketing |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Media Studies |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Music |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Neuroscience |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Philosophy |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Political Science |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Religious Studies |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Sociology |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Spanish |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Special Education |
4 years |
$36,500 |
|
Theatre |
4 years |
$36,500 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
2–3 years |
$11,550 (based on $642/credit) |
|
Master of Science in Business Analytics |
1–2 years |
$14,850 (based on $825/credit) |
|
Master of Arts in Coaching Leadership |
1–2 years |
$9,630 (based on $535/credit) |
Quality Education:
Loras College offers 40+ undergraduate majors, 12 pre-professional programs, and 3 graduate programs, covering a wide range of disciplines.
Its liberal arts foundation ensures students develop critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Small Class Sizes:
The student-to-faculty ratio is 11:1, providing international students with personalized attention and opportunities to build strong relationships with professors.
Welcoming Community:
International students from around the world are part of the Loras community, fostering a culturally diverse and inclusive environment.
Support for International Students:
Loras provides dedicated resources for international students, including assistance with visas, orientation programs, and academic advising.
Location:
Situated in Dubuque, Iowa, a safe and friendly city along the Mississippi River, international students enjoy a peaceful and supportive environment while being close to major metropolitan areas like Chicago and Minneapolis.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities:
Loras emphasizes experiential learning, offering internships, service-learning, and study abroad programs to help students gain practical experience.
International students can pursue any of the undergraduate or graduate programs at Loras College. Some popular programs include:
Undergraduate Programs:
Business Administration
Media Studies
Engineering
Biology (Pre-Med)
Criminal Justice
Psychology
Finance
Computer Science
Graduate Programs:
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Master of Science in Business Analytics
Master of Arts in Coaching Leadership
Loras College provides specialized services to help international students transition to life in the U.S. and succeed academically and socially:
International Student Office:
Offers guidance on F-1 visas, I-20 processing, and maintaining legal status.
Helps with cultural adjustment and navigating life in the U.S.
Orientation Programs:
International students participate in orientation sessions to familiarize themselves with campus resources, academic expectations, and American culture.
Academic Advising and Tutoring:
Personalized advising is available to help students with course selection, career goals, and adjusting to the U.S. education system.
Free tutoring services are provided to ensure academic success.
Cultural Exchange:
International students are encouraged to share their cultures through events like International Education Week, Global Coffee Hour, and other campus activities.
English Language Support:
Assistance is available for students who need help improving their English proficiency, including writing and language skills.
Explore the undergraduate majors, graduate programs, or pre-professional tracks offered at Loras College to ensure alignment with your academic and career goals.
Loras offers 40+ undergraduate programs and 3 master’s programs, as well as several pre-professional tracks (e.g., Pre-Med, Pre-Law, Pre-Engineering).
Students can apply via:
The Loras College Application portal (available on the official website).
The Common Application (widely used for U.S. college admissions).
Application Fee: Loras College does not charge an application fee, making it easier for students to apply.
Application Form:
Complete the application form through the college portal or Common Application.
High School Transcripts:
Submit official transcripts from your high school.
Transcripts must indicate successful completion of coursework with competitive grades (a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale is preferred).
Standardized Test Scores (Optional):
Loras College is test-optional, meaning SAT/ACT scores are not required for admission.
Students who choose to submit test scores can use the following institution codes:
SAT: 6370
ACT: 1318
Typical test score ranges (if submitted):
SAT: 1050–1200
ACT: 21–27
Personal Statement/Essay:
Write a personal essay (250–500 words) outlining your academic goals, extracurricular achievements, and why you are interested in attending Loras College.
Letter of Recommendation:
Submit at least one letter from a teacher, counselor, or mentor who can speak to your academic abilities, leadership, and character.
In addition to the above requirements, international students must provide:
English Language Proficiency Test Scores:
Non-native English speakers must submit one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105.
English proficiency waivers are available for students who have studied in English-medium schools or are from English-speaking countries.
Financial Documentation:
Provide proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses. Acceptable documents include:
Bank statements.
Sponsorship letters.
Affidavits of financial support.
Passport Copy:
Submit a copy of your valid passport for visa processing purposes.
Transfer Applicants (if applicable):
International transfer students must submit transcripts from previously attended colleges or universities, along with an evaluation of foreign credentials (e.g., via WES or ECE).
Bachelor’s Degree:
Submit transcripts showing completion of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
A minimum GPA of 3.0 is generally required (varies by program).
Resume or CV:
Include details of your academic and professional experience.
Personal Statement:
Write a statement explaining your goals, reasons for pursuing a graduate degree, and how Loras College aligns with your career aspirations.
Letters of Recommendation:
Submit two letters from academic or professional references.
Additional Requirements:
Some programs may require interviews, portfolios, or additional test scores. For example:
GRE/GMAT: May be waived depending on the program or prior academic performance.
Loras College offers rolling admissions, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received. However, the following deadlines are recommended:
Semester |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|
|
Fall Semester |
May 1 |
|
Spring Semester |
November 1 |
International students are encouraged to apply early to allow time for visa processing.
Admitted students must:
Confirm Enrollment:
Submit the enrollment deposit (approximately $200, non-refundable) to secure your spot.
Submit Housing Application:
Complete the housing application to reserve on-campus accommodation.
Submit Final Transcripts:
Provide official final high school or college transcripts after graduation.
Loras College provides support to help international students obtain their F-1 Student Visa:
I-20 Form:
After admission and submission of financial documents, Loras College will issue the I-20 Form, required for an F-1 visa application.
SEVIS Fee:
Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee to activate your I-20.
Visa Application:
Apply for an F-1 visa at your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Prepare for the visa interview by bringing your I-20, passport, financial proof, and admission letter.
Loras College offers generous merit-based scholarships and financial aid to help students manage tuition costs. Key options include:
Merit-Based Scholarships:
Awards range from $10,000 to $25,000 per year, based on academic performance.
International Student Scholarships:
Automatically awarded during the admission process for eligible international students.
Need-Based Financial Aid:
U.S. students can apply for need-based aid by submitting the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
International students can apply for institutional aid by completing a financial aid form.
Loras College provides an extensive orientation program for all new students:
First-Year Orientation:
Helps students transition to college life and familiarize themselves with campus resources.
International Student Orientation:
Focuses on cultural adjustment, visa compliance, and connecting international students with the campus community.
Loras College operates on a semester system, with two primary intakes:
Intake Period |
Application Deadline (Recommended) |
Semester Start |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Semester |
May 1 |
Late August |
|
Spring Semester |
November 1 |
Mid-January |
Rolling Admissions: Loras College has a rolling admissions policy, meaning applications are reviewed as they are submitted. Students are encouraged to apply early for priority consideration and to ensure ample time for visa processing (for international students).
Eligibility requirements for admission to undergraduate programs include academic performance, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities.
For Domestic Students:
High School Diploma:
Applicants must have completed high school (or equivalent) with a competitive GPA.
A minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale is preferred.
Standardized Test Scores (Optional):
Loras College is test-optional, meaning SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission.
Students may submit scores if they believe it strengthens their application:
SAT: Recommended range 1050–1200.
ACT: Recommended range 21–27.
Personal Essay:
A 250–500-word essay highlighting academic goals, leadership experiences, and interest in Loras College.
Letter of Recommendation:
At least one letter from a teacher, counselor, or mentor.
Extracurricular Involvement:
Participation in leadership roles, sports, arts, or volunteer activities is valued.
For International Students:
High School Diploma:
Equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma with competitive grades (minimum 2.5 GPA preferred).
English Language Proficiency:
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following tests:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105.
Applicants from English-speaking countries or those who have studied in English-medium schools may request a waiver.
Transcripts:
Official high school transcripts translated into English (if applicable).
Financial Documentation:
Proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses, such as bank statements or sponsorship letters.
Personal Essay:
Same as domestic students.
Letter of Recommendation:
At least one letter from a teacher, counselor, or mentor.
Passport Copy:
Submit a copy of a valid passport for visa processing.
Eligibility for master's programs at Loras College includes academic credentials, professional experience, and personal goals.
Bachelor’s Degree:
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is preferred.
Program-Specific Requirements:
For some programs, prior experience or coursework in a related field is required (e.g., mental health counseling or business analytics).
English Language Proficiency (for international students):
TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English test scores as per undergraduate requirements.
Personal Statement:
A detailed statement explaining your career goals, reasons for pursuing a graduate degree, and how the program aligns with your ambitions.
Resume or CV:
Required for graduate applicants, highlighting professional experience and academic achievements.
Letters of Recommendation:
Two letters of recommendation from professors, supervisors, or mentors.
Additional Requirements:
Certain programs may require interviews, writing samples, or portfolios (e.g., for Clinical Mental Health Counseling).
Ranking Organization |
Ranking/Rating |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
U.S. News & World Report |
#7 in Best Regional Colleges (Midwest) |
Ranked highly for academic quality, student engagement, and value in the Midwest region. |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
#13 in Best Value Schools (Regional Colleges Midwest) |
Recognized for affordability and strong return on investment for students. |
|
Niche.com |
B+ Overall Grade |
Highly rated for academics, value, and campus life. |
|
Niche.com |
#5 Best Catholic College in Iowa |
Recognized for its strong Catholic tradition and emphasis on service and leadership. |
|
Washington Monthly |
Top 15 Midwest Liberal Arts Colleges |
Featured for contributions to public service, research, and promoting social mobility. |
|
College Factual |
Top 20% for Most Focused Criminal Justice Program |
Highlighted for its strong emphasis on criminal justice and law enforcement preparation. |
|
Forbes |
America’s Top Colleges |
Ranked for affordability, academic quality, and career outcomes of graduates. |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD) |
Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
Awarded based on academic achievement (e.g., GPA, test scores). |
$10,000 to $25,000/year |
Automatically considered for all students during admission. Renewable for up to 4 years. |
|
Legacy Scholarship |
Students with a parent, sibling, or grandparent who graduated from Loras. |
$1,500/year |
Renewable for up to 4 years. |
|
Endowed Scholarships |
Awarded based on academic performance, leadership, and/or financial need. |
(up to $5,000/year) |
Funded by private donors and foundations; specific criteria may vary. |
|
All-Iowa Opportunity Scholarship |
Iowa residents with financial need; must complete FAFSA. |
Up to $4,644/year |
Available to students from Iowa who demonstrate significant financial need. |
|
Catholic High School Scholarship |
Graduates from a Catholic high school or those actively involved in their parish. |
$1,500/year |
Encourages students from Catholic schools to continue education in a Catholic environment. |
|
Scholarship for Diversity and Inclusion |
Students from underrepresented backgrounds or those committed to diversity. |
(up to $3,000/year) |
Designed to promote inclusivity and support for diverse students. |
|
Music and Theatre Scholarships |
Talented students in music or theatre; requires an audition or portfolio review. |
Up to $2,000/year |
Renewable with active participation in music or theatre programs at Loras. |
|
Athletic Scholarships |
Talented athletes participating in NCAA Division III sports. |
N/A |
Awarded based on athletic ability and coach recommendations. |
|
Transfer Merit Scholarships |
Transfer students with strong academic performance. |
$7,000 to $17,000/year |
Based on GPA from prior institution. Renewable for the remainder of undergraduate study. |
|
International Student Scholarships |
International students with academic merit and financial need. |
$10,000 to $25,000/year |
Automatically considered during admission for international applicants. |
Facility |
Details |
Cost (USD) Per Year |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Loras College is located at 1450 Alta Vista Street, Dubuque, Iowa, USA, in a scenic, historic area. |
Not Applicable |
|
Campus Size |
The campus spans 65 acres, featuring historic buildings, modern facilities, and green spaces. |
Not Applicable |
|
Housing Options |
Loras College provides on-campus housing options for first-year students, upperclassmen, and transfer students. |
|
|
- Traditional Residence Halls |
Shared rooms with communal bathrooms and common areas; suitable for first-year students. |
$4,380–$5,060/year |
|
- Suite-Style Housing |
Semi-private housing with shared living spaces and private/semi-private bathrooms. |
$5,560–$6,050/year |
|
- Apartment-Style Housing |
Apartments with kitchens, living rooms, and private bedrooms; designed for upperclassmen. |
$6,300–$6,760/year |
|
Meal Plan Options |
Required for on-campus residents; includes a range of dining dollars and meal swipes. |
$5,390–$5,800/year |
|
Dining Facilities |
Multiple on-campus dining options, including the Café Bon Appetit and the Pub Grille. |
Included in meal plan costs |
|
Amenities in Housing |
Wi-Fi, free laundry facilities, study lounges, and recreational spaces. |
Included in housing costs |
|
Academic Facilities |
Modern classrooms, labs, library, and study spaces equipped with technology. |
Included in tuition fees |
|
Recreation Facilities |
Athletic & Wellness Center, gymnasium, fitness center, and outdoor recreational areas. |
Included in tuition fees |
|
Spiritual Life Facilities |
On-campus Christ the King Chapel and spaces for prayer and reflection. |
Not Applicable |
|
Parking Facilities |
Student parking available with a parking permit. |
$100/year (approx.) |
1. Campus Community
Loras College fosters a close-knit community with approximately 1,400 students, ensuring a personalized experience.
The college emphasizes collaboration, inclusivity, and leadership, providing a welcoming atmosphere for students from all backgrounds.
With small class sizes and a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, students receive personalized attention both inside and outside the classroom.
2. Residential Life
Loras College is a residential campus, and most students live on-campus throughout their college years.
Living in residence halls and apartments encourages a sense of belonging and community.
Residence halls offer modern amenities, including free laundry, study lounges, and recreational spaces.
3. Clubs and Organizations
Loras has over 70 student-led clubs and organizations catering to diverse interests, including academics, arts, sports, service, and recreation.
Examples of popular student organizations include:
Student Union (Loras Student Government): Provides leadership opportunities and ensures student voices are heard.
Loras College Dance Marathon: A service-based organization that raises funds for children’s hospitals.
Gaming Club: For students interested in video games, board games, and esports.
Active Minds: Promotes mental health awareness and advocacy.
4. Athletics and Recreation
Varsity Sports:
Loras is a member of NCAA Division III and competes in the American Rivers Conference (ARC).
Offers 23 varsity sports teams for men and women, including:
Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball, Track and Field, Wrestling, and Tennis.
Loras is known for its strong athletic tradition and success in conference championships.
Intramural and Club Sports:
Students can participate in recreational leagues and club sports, including flag football, dodgeball, and ultimate frisbee.
Fitness and Recreation:
The Athletic and Wellness Center includes a fitness center, gymnasium, and outdoor facilities for students to stay active.
5. Arts and Culture
Theatre and Music:
Students can join the Loras Players, the college’s theatre group, to perform or assist in stage productions.
Opportunities in music include choir, band, and instrumental ensembles, with regular performances on campus and in the community.
Creative Writing and Media:
Students interested in writing can contribute to the Loras College literary journal or join media-related organizations such as the Loras College Television Station (LCTV).
6. Service and Volunteer Opportunities
Service is a cornerstone of student life at Loras College, reflecting its Catholic values and mission to promote ethical leadership.
Students participate in various service activities, including:
Alternative Break Trips: Volunteer trips to underserved communities in the U.S. and abroad.
Campus Ministry Outreach: Opportunities to serve the local Dubuque community.
Service-Learning Courses: Combines academics with hands-on community engagement.
7. Spiritual Life
As a Catholic college, Loras integrates faith and spirituality into campus life while welcoming students of all faiths.
Key spiritual opportunities include:
Christ the King Chapel: Hosts daily Mass, prayer services, and special liturgical celebrations.
Retreats and Reflection: Students can attend spiritual retreats to connect with peers and reflect on their faith journey.
Interfaith Dialogues: Programs promoting understanding and respect for diverse religious traditions.
8. Diversity and Inclusion
Loras College values diversity and strives to create an inclusive campus environment:
Multicultural Student Services: Provides support and programming for students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Events like Cultural Celebrations and International Education Week celebrate the diversity of the student body.
Scholarships for Diversity and Inclusion: Financial support for students committed to fostering inclusivity.
9. Study Abroad and Global Engagement
Loras offers a robust study abroad program, giving students the opportunity to study in countries like:
Ireland, Italy, Spain, South Africa, and Australia.
Short-term service trips and international internships are also available.
On campus, international students and global ambassadors contribute to fostering a sense of global community.
10. Career Development and Professional Growth
Loras College’s Center for Experiential Learning helps students prepare for life after graduation:
Offers internships, job shadowing, and professional development workshops.
Alumni networking events connect students with successful Loras graduates.
On-campus jobs and internships are available for students seeking work experience.
Students receive individualized support for career planning, including resume building, interview prep, and graduate school applications.
11. Events and Traditions
Loras College celebrates many annual traditions that bring students together, including:
Homecoming Week: Celebrations include parades, athletic events, and alumni gatherings.
Founders Day: Honors the college’s Catholic heritage and history.
Christmas on Campus: A festive celebration with music, decorations, and holiday events.
12. Dining and Social Spaces
Students can enjoy a variety of dining options on campus, including Café Bon Appetit and the Pub Grille.
Social spaces like lounges, coffee shops, and outdoor gathering areas provide opportunities for students to relax and connect with friends.
Graduates from Loras College pursue careers in a variety of industries, leveraging their liberal arts education and specialized training. Key industries include:
Business and Finance:
Management, marketing, sales, finance, and analytics roles.
Common employers: Wells Fargo, Deloitte, John Deere, IBM, and Principal Financial Group.
Healthcare and Medicine:
Graduates in pre-medical programs or biology often go on to medical schools or work in hospitals, clinics, or research institutions.
Employers: Mayo Clinic, UnityPoint Health, MercyOne.
Education:
Many graduates pursue careers in K-12 education, special education, and higher education.
Employers: Local school districts, private schools, and universities.
Media and Communications:
Loras’s Media Studies graduates excel in journalism, public relations, digital media, and television production.
Employers: WHBF-TV, KCRG-TV, The Telegraph Herald.
Criminal Justice and Law:
Graduates work in law enforcement, corrections, and legal professions.
Employers: Local police departments, FBI, and regional law firms.
Nonprofit and Public Service:
Many graduates join nonprofits or service organizations such as AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and local advocacy groups.
Technology and Engineering:
Engineering and computer science students pursue careers in technology firms, manufacturing, and design.
Employers: General Electric, 3M, Medtronic, and Alliant Energy.
Loras College emphasizes experiential learning through internships, job shadowing, and service-learning programs. Students benefit from the college's strong ties to businesses, nonprofits, and government organizations.
Local, National, and International Internships:
Students can intern in companies in Dubuque, Iowa, as well as major metropolitan areas like Chicago, Minneapolis, and beyond.
Study abroad programs often include internship opportunities in countries like Ireland, Italy, and Spain.
Hands-On Learning:
Internships provide students with practical experience in fields like marketing, healthcare, finance, and education.
Support from Career Services:
The Center for Experiential Learning helps students secure internships, build professional resumes, and prepare for interviews.
The Center for Experiential Learning and the Career Development Office play an integral role in helping students prepare for careers and advanced education.
Career Counseling:
One-on-one guidance to explore career interests, set goals, and create a professional development plan.
Job and Internship Support:
Students have access to the Handshake Platform, which connects them with employers and job opportunities nationwide.
Resume and Cover Letter Assistance:
Workshops and individual sessions to craft professional resumes and cover letters tailored to specific industries.
Mock Interviews:
Practice interviews help students build confidence and refine their communication skills.
Networking Opportunities:
Career fairs, alumni networking events, and employer panels connect students with potential employers.
Loras College provides excellent preparation for students pursuing advanced degrees in fields like medicine, law, business, and education.
Loras graduates frequently attend prestigious institutions such as:
University of Iowa
Notre Dame
Marquette University
Loyola University Chicago
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Pre-Professional Programs:
Loras offers advising for pre-medical, pre-law, pre-dental, and other professional tracks, ensuring students meet graduate school prerequisites.
Loras College has a strong and active alumni network that supports students with mentorship, internships, and job placements.
Alumni Mentorship:
Alumni volunteer to guide current students in their career paths.
Employer Partnerships:
Many alumni work in leadership positions at prominent companies and facilitate hiring of Loras graduates.
Lifelong Career Support:
Alumni can access career services even after graduation, providing long-term career support.
The median starting salary for Loras College graduates is approximately $50,000–$60,000, depending on the industry.
Top Employers:
Loras alumni work at companies and organizations like:
John Deere
Deloitte
IBM
Mayo Clinic
Wells Fargo
UnitedHealth Group
An acceptance rate of 58–65% reflects that Loras College evaluates applicants holistically, focusing on academic performance, extracurricular activities, leadership qualities, and personal achievements.
While the college is not highly selective, it ensures that admitted students align with its values of academic excellence, community engagement, and Catholic heritage.
Academic Performance:
A minimum GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) is preferred.
Rigorous high school coursework, such as honors or AP classes, is valued.
Test Scores (Optional):
Loras College is test-optional, meaning students are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores.
If submitted, typical scores for admitted students are:
SAT: 1050–1200.
ACT: 21–27.
Holistic Admissions Approach:
The admissions team evaluates more than just academic records, including:
Personal essays.
Letters of recommendation.
Leadership roles and extracurricular involvement.
International Students:
Loras is welcoming to international students and reviews applications based on academic achievements, English proficiency, and financial documentation.
Loras College
1450 Alta Vista Street,
Dubuque, Iowa, 52001, USA
