AIB College of Business

Key Highlights

• Private non-profit institution with strong academic tradition
• Mid-size city location with balance of urban amenities
• Strong focus on undergraduate education
• Diverse academic programs across multiple disciplines

Student Life & Environment

Student life at AIB College of Business reflected the practical, career-focused nature of the institution and the diverse backgrounds of students pursuing professional education. Many students attended AIB while maintaining jobs, supporting families, or transitioning from other careers, creating a mature and motivated student community. Classroom discussions drew on the professional experiences students brought with them, enriching learning through diverse perspectives. The urban campus provided convenient access via public transportation for commuting students, while limited on-campus activities reflected the college's primarily commuter population. Student organizations focused on professional networking and career development, with business clubs and honor societies connecting students with alumni and employers. Career services maintained close relationships with Des Moines employers, hosting job fairs, facilitating interviews, and connecting graduates with employment opportunities. Computer labs and study spaces remained accessible extended hours, accommodating the irregular schedules of working students. The college fostered a supportive environment recognizing the challenges many students faced in balancing education with other life responsibilities. Tutoring and academic support helped students succeed who might be returning to education after years away from classrooms. The compact campus community meant that students often knew one another and could form study groups and support networks. Des Moines' amenities surrounded the campus, with restaurants, shopping, and entertainment accessible during breaks between classes.

Location & Surroundings

Des Moines, Iowa's capital and largest city, provided the urban setting where AIB College of Business prepared students for careers in the heart of the state's business community. The city's concentration of insurance companies, financial services firms, and corporate headquarters created abundant employment opportunities for business graduates in accounting, administration, and related fields. Government offices and agencies in the capital offered additional career paths for graduates, particularly those completing paralegal programs. The cost of living in Des Moines remained below that of larger metropolitan areas, allowing students to manage expenses while investing in their education. The city's growing population and economic development suggested continued employment opportunities for future graduates. Public transportation served the campus and connected students with employers throughout the metropolitan area. Des Moines' downtown revitalization created an increasingly vibrant urban environment with cultural attractions, dining options, and entertainment venues. The East Village, Western Gateway, and other neighborhoods offered diverse experiences within the compact downtown area. Iowa's seasonal climate brought hot summers and cold winters, with the city maintaining good snow removal and reliable services year-round. The Des Moines International Airport provided convenient access for students from outside the immediate area. Weekend trips to larger cities like Minneapolis, Kansas City, or Chicago remained feasible for students seeking occasional metropolitan experiences.

Costs & Career Outcomes

Investment in AIB College of Business education was designed to provide rapid return through accelerated programs leading to immediate employment in growing career fields. Tuition and fees reflected the focused, practical nature of AIB programs, with financial aid available to qualifying students. The accelerated format meant students could complete degrees in less time than traditional four-year programs, reducing both direct costs and opportunity costs of time away from full-time employment. Graduates found employment in accounting departments, corporate offices, law firms, and government agencies throughout Des Moines and beyond. Starting salaries varied by field, with accounting and paralegal positions offering particularly strong entry-level compensation. Career services maintained relationships with employers actively recruiting AIB graduates, facilitating connections that shortened job search timelines. Many students secured employment before graduation through internships or employer relationships developed during their programs. Graduates who demonstrated performance in entry-level positions found opportunities for advancement as they gained experience and additional credentials. Some graduates returned for additional certifications or coursework to qualify for expanded responsibilities. Professional associations in accounting, legal support, and business administration provided networking opportunities for career development. The practical skills developed at AIB remained relevant throughout careers, even as specific technologies and practices evolved. Alumni reported that the focused, applied nature of their AIB education prepared them well for the realities of workplace expectations.

Compare with Similar Universities