THE LORAS STORY

We are nationally recognized as a strong academic institution.  Loras earned the 14th spot in the Top Tier among Best Midwest Regional Colleges in the 2012 edition of “Best Colleges” by U.S. News Media Group while receiving one of the highest peer assessment scores on academic reputation among all regional rankings (3.2 out of 4).

We are a distinguished Catholic college.  Loras was named as a College of Distinction, one of only 20 among the 230 Catholic colleges and universities based on the best places to learn, grow and succeed.

We instill ethics and values throughout our students’ educational experience. According to the most recent National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) and by a margin of at least 25%, our recent graduates report they have developed a deep sense of ethics and values at Loras, compared to any other college or university category.

We demonstrate strong outcomes in our academic programs.  Examples include: In 2011-12, Loras accounting graduates again secured a high CPA pass rate 3rd among all Iowa colleges and universities. In 2011-12, Loras engineering graduates had a 100% pass rate on the rigorous FE national exam, compared to the national average of 50%. In 2011-12, the Loras teacher education program was granted a maximal accreditation of 7 years, while receiving commendation for adopting a model of continuous improvement.

We demonstrate strong outcomes in our co-curricular programs.  Examples include: Men’s Soccer is ranked #2 and Women’s Soccer #19 among all institutions in the largest athletic division in the country, NCAA Division III. The Mediation Team just finished #8 in the country. The Sport Management program just finished 2nd at a national case study competition and, as such, is the only program to finish in the top three in the last seven competitions which includes Loras winning 3 national championships.

We encourage our students to experience and serve the world. More than 94% of our students study abroad at one of our 6 affiliate sites, commit to serve on numerous domestic or international trips, engage in internships, student-faculty research or practicums and travel on any number of distinctive January term trips to great places like Greece, Mexico, Germany and many more.

We help students see God in all things. From a liturgical coordinator to FOCUS missionaries to a Dean for Campus Spiritual life, Loras provides an expansive staff to provide students with a wide variety of opportunities to pursue and enhance their faith lives.