Graduate and professional programs are crucial to the academic and research reputation of the institution; to the creation, dissemination, and preservation of knowledge; and to creating a vibrant learning environment for all students, including undergraduates.

The Office of the Provost plays a key role in enhancing the quality of graduate and professional education.  In collaboration with colleges and deans, the Office of the Provost allocates resources, evaluates and assures the quality of graduate and professional programs, and reports outcomes assessments and other measures of effectiveness to the Board of Regents, State of Iowa.

Selected areas of responsibility for the associate provost for graduate education (John Keller):

• Administration of more than 100 graduate programs across all colleges
• Graduate College (home to ten interdisciplinary graduate programs and two departments)
• International Writing Program
• Women in Science and Engineering
• Deans' Graduate Research Fellowships
• Institutional coordinator for National Research Council (NRC) Assessment of Doctoral Degree Programs