High Impact Practices

A high impact practice (HIP) is an educational practice that meets several of the quality standards defined in the HIP infographic below. At Iowa State students participate in a variety of HIPs that support their academic and career goals, and their engagement with HIPs is a valued component of the Iowa State University experience.

High impact practices quality diagram

The Iowa State strategic plan has a goal that all graduates will be engaged in at least three High Impact Practices prior to graduation. As highlighted in the 2023 National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) High Impact Practices Report (PDF), Iowa State University first-year students and seniors participate in high impact practices at a significantly higher rate than Carnegie Research Intensive Universities. Data from 2023 shows that nearly 71% of Iowa State's undergraduate students participated in two or more high impact practices during their undergraduate experience.

Office of the Senior Vice President and Provost units that offer high impact practices: 

Helping Students Succeed

Using proven high-impact teaching and learning practices, Iowa State provides opportunities and initiatives that help students transition to campus life, engage in their education, and succeed.

University-Wide Student Success Initiatives

For questions or more information, contact: Academic-Programs@iastate.edu.