A private, faith-based, nonprofit school, Waldorf University calls the rural Midwest home. Our intimate and charming campus sits on a prominent corner in Forest City, Iowa, and has a rich history dating back to 1903, when we welcomed our first students to campus.

In 2010, more than a century later, we created online programs — from business to nursing — so more students can experience a Waldorf University education. As a result, we’re proud to provide a solid foundation for career success, family engagement and community impact for people anywhere and everywhere.

When you choose to experience Waldorf University campus life, you get to enjoy our state-of-the-art science labs, television and recording studios, classrooms, performing arts center, athletic facilities and beautiful library — all on a safe and walkable site.

If you pursue your program online, you’ll benefit from technology that mimics the classroom experience without the limitations of scheduled classes and lectures. This format ensures flexibility without sacrificing a high-quality education.

Because we’re accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, you can be confident that Waldorf University’s diverse certificate, associate, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs conform to industry best practices and weave emerging trends into curriculum.

Whether studying on campus or online, our low student-to-faculty ratio cultivates a high level of interaction between you and your professors.

The Waldorf University Experience

Waldorf’s four pillars describe the education experience we provide to students on campus and online. They are foundational to Waldorf’s history, reflective of Waldorf’s present and aspirational to Waldorf’s future.

Tradition

Founded in 1903, Waldorf has built a reputation for academic excellence, traditions in fine arts and a broad athletics program. We believe we have a responsibility to serve the world. But most importantly, we understand this experience as a gift from God that comes with a responsibility to serve the world.

Passion

Well-rounded people excel, which is why we encourage students to pursue their passions, whether those focus on extracurricular activities, faith, academics, or all the above.

Community

Our faculty, staff and students create our community. Together, we carry and instill Waldorf University's values, traditions and mission inside and outside the classroom, on campus and online. Our students come from every U.S. state and many countries worldwide, adding to our learning community. You’ll understand the uniqueness of the Waldorf community from your very first interaction.

Success

We define success as the triumph of the human spirit and use our successes to serve others. Whether you study on our Forest City campus or not, you receive an academic experience that fits your needs to succeed on your terms.

Well-Rounded Waldorf University Campus Life

Waldorf Warriors believe in building a well-rounded education. Participating in the arts and sports, volunteering and community involvement are just as important as education.

The Waldorf community offers a safe environment to not only focus on academia but also become a better athlete or performer, a more engaged community member and an individual who knows how to lead.

There are many ways to get involved in Waldorf University campus life through extracurricular activities, from chess clubs, intramural sports and a student-run radio station to the student senate and groups dedicated to aspiring journalists. Nothing but possibilities await.

Because Waldorf is located in Forest City, Iowa, it’s easy to get connected not only on campus but also off campus. Students can enjoy miles of bike trails, public parks, Winnebago River canoeing, a disc golf course, a golf course and many more recreational opportunities—with just a quick, two-hour commute to Minneapolis or Des Moines, Iowa.

Waldorf Warriors are Dedicated to Lives of Service

On and off campus, the Waldorf community is shaped by veracity, discipline, dignity, responsibility, a commitment to service and faith in God.

Founded by Norwegian immigrants as a Lutheran college, Waldorf Warriors have always emphasized stewardship and service to others. Whether our graduates become teachers, scientists, doctors, entrepreneurs or musicians, they seek out lives of service.

Waldorf University faculty are also dedicated to these goals and tenets. They are effective teachers who share a personal commitment to the faith, values and traditions of our college.