It doesn't matter if you ask a long-time professor, recent graduate, passionate alum, or a fresh-eyed first-year student. Pick a member of the Grand View community at random and ask him or her what it means to be a Viking, and you will most likely get a one-word answer: Family.
Housed in a city, unlike any other, our students gain an education unlike any other. The whole city is our classroom, and our students emerge not just with a diploma, but with experiences that could only happen at Grand View University. Whether you want to follow in the footsteps of giants or forge a new path, this is the place to start.
When it comes to education, Grand View University means business...and biotechnology and theatre and 40+ other majors and pre-professional programs.No matter which program you choose, you'll be immersed in the Viking culture. Our creative, innovative, hands-on learning style means that no two experiences are the same. It's all about making your education your own. Our theory? Learn what you love, and you'll love to learn.
Founded more than 100 years ago in 1896, Grand View offers a high-quality education to a diverse student body in a career-oriented, liberal arts-grounded curriculum in Des Moines, Iowa, a metropolitan area of more than half a million people. Grand View offers bachelor's and master's degrees and welcomes traditional students and adult learners representing a wide range of religious and cultural backgrounds.
At Grand View, students find a winning combination of high-quality programs, experienced professors, and caring individuals. With approximately 2,000 students (around 1,650 full time), an average class size of 16, and a student-to-faculty ratio of 14 to 1, students get to know their professors and other students well. They learn independence and seek responsibility in Grand View's educational environment.
Learning is an interactive process at Grand View—students engage in lively discussions, work on real-world projects, and participate in career-related work experiences. Grand View welcomes and supports students from all walks of life, geographies, religions, and ethnicities. The core values at Grand View University provide a foundation for faculty, staff, and students to fulfill the mission and achieve the institution's vision.
Grand View University engages, equips, and empowers students to fulfill their potential and serve society. Committed to the development of the whole person – mind, body, and spirit – and to preparing students for successful careers and responsible citizenship both in their communities and in a diverse and changing world, Grand View offers a liberal arts education that:
- Challenges students to inquire with a disciplined and critical mind, communicate effectively, and display an awareness of the global issues that affect us all.
- Creates a community of learners where differing perspectives are welcome, where friendly interaction is the norm, and where intellectual and personal integrity is expected and modeled.
- Offers a supportive environment where students can engage in community with others, discern life purpose, and grow in leadership.
- Affirms Christian faith and ethics as a vision for life. This vision enhances our respect for all people's diversity and dignity, for relating to others, and for the pursuit of lifelong learning.
With boldness and confidence, we will…
- Provide a rigorous education that prepares students for successful careers and inspired lives.
- Afford this opportunity to all qualified students, including those who have been underrepresented in college populations.
- Preserve the virtues of independent, residential, church-related, liberal arts education for future generations.
- Blend the strengths of engaging and interactive in-class experiences with appropriate technologies to enrich learning and extend our reach.
- Build community ties that enhance life in the region and add value to our students.
By doing these things well, we can emerge as a leader within the higher education community and provide excellence in teaching the next generation of students.
At Grand View University, we are committed to producing well-rounded individuals committed to others' scholarship and leadership. To get the most out of your time on campus, we encourage you to get involved with campus life and throughout the Des Moines and Polk County communities. From cheering on the Viking athletic teams to serving those in need at the Des Moines Food Bank, the social programs and service opportunities available to our students are unparalleled.
How do you know if you're Viking material? It's easy. Vikings are family. We're welcoming and inclusive. We believe in the greater good. We're the first to volunteer for demanding tasks. We love a challenge. We think before we act, and our actions are rooted in integrity and compassion. Being a Viking means taking chances to solve complex global challenges while still taking the time to do the simple things that make a big difference, like smiling at a stranger.
No matter who or where you are, there is a place for you at Grand View. We want to give you the tools you need to have an unforgettable college experience, land your dream job, and help change the world for the better. That's the Viking way. If you are curious and not afraid to take risks, this is the university for you. Whether you're ready to fill out the application or planning ahead, all the information you need is here.
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