Public flagship research university in Iowa City, Iowa, renowned for its creative writing and journalism programs. Organized into 12 colleges offering more than 200 areas of study and 7 professional degrees. Among public universities in the United States, it was the first to become coeducational, host a department of religious studies, and open a coeducational medical school. Approximately 32,000 students participate in nearly 500 student organizations. Member of the Association of American Universities since 1909 and the Big Ten Conference since 1899.