Established in 1857, Upper Iowa University is a private institution located in rural northeastern Iowa, in the town of Fayette. The idea of founding Upper Iowa University was that of a local pioneer woman named Elizabeth Alexander, who in 1894 obtained $10,000 from her husband, and $5,000 plus ten acres from her son in law and used these donations to create the university. In January of 1857, the first classes began in what was then known as the “Fayette Seminary of the Upper Iowa Conference,” and was affiliated with the Methodist Church. In 1858, the name of institution was changed to Upper Iowa University. Upper Iowa University maintained its affiliation with the Methodist Church, until 1928 and then separated from the church and became an independent university. Until the time of the separation, the Methodist Church had helped to maintain and support the university. As result of the separation, the university broadened its curriculum and added academic advisors to assist with personalizing the education of its students.

Upper Iowa offers an online program that makes it easier for students that need a more flexible schedule to earn a degree, and offers post-secondary degree program majors, master’s degree programs and certificate programs. The online program is internet-based, and allows students to work on their own schedule. Students participating in the online program can begin taking classes in any of the terms during the year.