A Destination University
We began this journey with a bold vision: to establish the University of Iowa as the top choice for the next group of talented students, faculty, and staff. Guided by our strategic plan, we have called on the entire UI community to help carry out this mission, and our efforts are producing remarkable results.
As we reach the midpoint of our 2022-2027 Strategic Plan, we have enjoyed a tremendous amount of progress and have already surpassed several key targets for retention rates, graduation rates, philanthropic support, research expenditures, and patient care capacity. While we are proud of what we have accomplished, there are more challenges, opportunities, and goals for our university to strive for in the coming years.
Together, we will continue to enhance the University of Iowa’s standing as one of the most distinguished public flagship universities in the country.
2022-2027 Strategic Plan Update
The University of Iowa completed a mid-cycle update of the 2022-2027 Strategic Plan in February 2025. This update aligns the plan with the recently amended Iowa Board of Regents’ Strategic Plan and ensures compliance with new state laws —including Iowa Code Chapter 261J. It also allows the university to assess progress, refine strategies, and set ambitious new goals.
You can also learn more about the update from Iowa Now. The full version of the mid-cycle update is available online.
Latest Updates
TRACERS: The next chapter in Iowa's space legacy
A July rocket launch will mark a major milestone in the Iowa-led $165.7 million NASA mission that was the university's largest ever externally funded research project. While on the ground, the project was a model of how to achieve our strategic plan goals.
Space Science Reviews Publishes TRACERS Article Collection
TRACERS continues the UI’s legacy of leadership in space physics and instrumentation and represents a major step forward in understanding the fundamental processes that shape space weather and Earth’s near-space environment.
Undergradautes support TRACERS project with replica model
In addition to advancing innovative research at Iowa, the TRACERS project is also creating new avenues for undergraduate students to engage in research and for the general public to learn about research.
Demonstrating the science of the TRACERS Mission
This past spring, faculty and students in the Department of Physics hosted interactive community demonstrations to explain the science of making plasmas, aurora, magnetic detection, particle detection, and rockets.
TRACERS: The milestone moments
With the TRACERS launch imminent, take a trip through the timeline of the university’s largest externally funded research project, which will examine the powerful interactions between the magnetic fields of the sun and Earth.
Priorities and Goals
The five priorities of the strategic plan are interconnected, building upon each other to position our institution for success.
Excellence in Teaching and Learning
Foster high-quality teaching and dynamic educational experiences that empower all students to achieve their aspirations.
Innovative Research and Creative Discovery
Advance the success of UI scholars, researchers, and artists and build on the university’s distinctive strengths in areas of current and emerging research and creative discovery.
Welcoming Environment
Facilitate a respectful campus environment that ensures access and opportunity for all students, faculty, and staff throughout their Iowa experience.
Holistic Well-Being and Success
Provide a comprehensive foundation of support for individuals throughout all stages of their relationship with the university, beginning by attracting and retaining talented students, faculty, and staff who will contribute to a thriving university community.
Transformative Societal Impact
Expand the university’s impact on local and regional communities, the state of Iowa, and the world by leveraging its areas of distinction, the resources entrusted to it, and the collective talent of its people.
What's Next
Our Strategic Plan Action and Resource Committee (SPARC) is helping the university reach new heights. For the strategic plan to be successful, we need continued participation and support from members of the campus community. Your ideas, input, and engagement are critical to us achieving our goals.