Higher education is important to most Iowans. Over 60 percent of students pursuing higher education enroll first at a community college such as North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC), which offers two-year degrees as well as several vocational certificate programs.

Students choosing NIACC have discovered a community college that has remained on the forefront of education throughout its 85-year history. New courses and majors are constantly being developed to meet the demands of the information age and to better prepare students to find a fulfilling job after graduation.

NIACC students can take traditional face-to-face classes or online courses. Additionally, satellite locations in many towns in North Iowa offer classes both during the day and in the evening. A generous scholarship program is in place to help qualified students defray costs.

More than just an academic institution, NIACC boasts a strong athletic program. NIACC students athletes compete in a variety of events, including football, volleyball, basketball, baseball, softball, golf and soccer. The athletic department gives back to the community through summer sports camps for local youth.

For more information on NIACC, go to www.niacc.edu

Hamilton College, founded in 1900, has been helping students specializing in business to succeed for generations. The oldest business college continuously operating in the state of Iowa, Hamilton College offers students associate's degrees in criminal justice, information technology, administrative assistance, business administration, travel, paralegal studies and accounting. Students can also earn bachelor's degrees in applied management and information technology.

For more information on Hamilton College, go to www.hamiltonia.edu

Mason City is also home to LaJames College of Cosmetology. Students at LaJames earn diplomas in cosmetology, nail technology and massage therapy.

For more information on LaJames College, go to www.lajames.com

Students in Mason City can also choose to become professional auctioneers by attending the World Wide College of Auctioneering. Ranking first in educating world-class auctioneers, the college trains students in developing the auction chant, bookings, laws and licenses, appraisals, ads, personal image, and many other facets of the auctioneering industry.

For more information on World Wide College of Auctioneering, go to www.worldwidecollegeofauctioneering.com

In addition to these fine institutions, Buena Vista University and Drake University operate satellite locations in Mason City which offer bachelor's and graduate degrees in several disciplines.