Drake University

Drake University has a negative ROI score of -66, suggesting that the median earnings 10 years after entry may not sufficiently offset the cost of attendance and debt incurred.

Drake University has a graduation rate of 75.7%.

Drake University's tuition is $52,130, and the median earnings 10 years after entry are $71,901, resulting in a negative ROI.

Drake University has a student body size of 2,543 students.

Drake University has an Affordability Score of 55, which is moderate, but the high tuition and negative ROI suggest that affordability is a concern for many students.

Drake University's admission rate stands at 63.8%, indicating that it is a selective institution but not exceptionally difficult to gain admission to. This means that while a significant portion of applicants are accepted, a strong academic record and well-rounded application are still necessary for a successful application. To improve your chances, focus on maintaining a high GPA, excelling in challenging coursework (like AP or IB classes), and crafting a compelling personal essay that showcases your unique qualities and aspirations. Standardized test scores, if submitted, should be competitive, with the middle 50% of admitted students typically scoring within a certain range (check Drake's latest admissions data for specifics). Extracurricular involvement, leadership roles, and letters of recommendation also play a crucial role in demonstrating your potential beyond academics. Early application options, such as Early Decision or Early Action, can sometimes offer a slight advantage if Drake is your top choice. Thoroughly research Drake's specific program requirements and demonstrate genuine interest through campus visits or virtual information sessions.

Drake University's value proposition is a key consideration. With tuition at $52,130 and median 10-year earnings of $71,901, the initial financial return isn't immediately striking. The median debt of $23,000 is manageable, suggesting a payoff period of roughly 4-5 years if 10% of earnings are allocated to debt repayment. However, the ROI score of -66 suggests a below-average financial return compared to national averages. The worth of Drake hinges significantly on the student's major and career trajectory. Graduates entering high-demand fields like finance, insurance, or certain health professions in the Des Moines area or other strong Midwest markets may see a much higher return than the median suggests. The university's strong career services and internship programs are designed to facilitate this, connecting students with employers who offer competitive salaries. For students seeking a broad liberal arts education without a specific high-earning career path in mind, the cost might feel substantial. Ultimately, Drake is a worthwhile investment for students who are strategic about their major, actively utilize career services, and aim for careers in sectors where Drake has strong placement, particularly within the Midwest.

Drake University excels in several professional and pre-professional programs, making them strong choices for prospective students. The College of Business and Public Administration is highly regarded, with majors like Finance, Actuarial Science, Marketing, and Accounting consistently placing graduates into competitive roles within the financial services and insurance industries, particularly in Des Moines. The School of Journalism and Mass Communication is another standout, preparing students for careers in media, public relations, and digital content creation, with strong internship opportunities at companies like Meredith Corporation. For students interested in healthcare, Drake offers excellent pre-professional tracks in Pre-Medicine, Pre-Nursing, and Pre-Pharmacy, often leading to successful admission into graduate health programs. The College of Arts and Sciences also offers robust programs in fields like Political Science and Psychology, which serve as strong foundations for law school or graduate studies. Students considering Drake should look at programs with strong regional employer demand, such as those in business and health sciences, which align well with the Des Moines job market.

Student life at Drake University is characterized by a vibrant campus community situated within the urban setting of Des Moines. The university fosters a close-knit environment, with a strong emphasis on student engagement and involvement. Approximately 90% of students live on campus for their first two years, contributing to a lively residential experience. Drake offers over 150 student organizations, including numerous clubs, Greek life (fraternities and sororities), intramural sports, and volunteer opportunities, ensuring that students can find their niche. The campus itself is beautiful and walkable, providing a distinct collegiate feel within the city. Social life often involves campus events, exploring Des Moines' downtown attractions, attending Drake athletic events (particularly basketball), and engaging with the diverse student body. While it's not a traditional 'college town' experience, the integration with Des Moines provides students with access to internships, cultural events, and entertainment options that enhance their overall college journey. The atmosphere is generally collaborative and engaged, with a focus on personal growth and community involvement.

Drake University is committed to making its education accessible through a variety of financial aid options. A significant portion of students receive some form of financial assistance. The university offers a substantial amount of institutional aid, primarily in the form of merit-based scholarships and need-based grants. While the sticker price for tuition, fees, room, and board is high ($52,130 for tuition alone), Drake aims to reduce the net price for many students through these aid packages. It's common for students to receive aid that significantly lowers their out-of-pocket costs. For instance, many merit scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, while need-based grants consider a family's financial circumstances. Federal aid, including Pell Grants and federal student loans, is also available to eligible students. To understand the specific aid you might receive, it's crucial to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and the CSS Profile (if required by Drake). Drake's financial aid office is generally helpful in guiding students through the application process and explaining award letters. The average financial aid package can significantly reduce the net cost, making it more affordable than the published tuition suggests.

The salary expectations for Drake University graduates vary considerably based on major, industry, and geographic location. The university reports a median 10-year earnings figure of $71,901. However, this is an average and doesn't reflect the full range. Graduates from the College of Business and Public Administration, particularly in Finance, Actuarial Science, and Accounting, often secure starting salaries in the $60,000-$80,000 range, with potential for much higher earnings in fields like investment banking or corporate finance, especially in larger markets like Chicago. Marketing and Communications graduates might start between $50,000-$70,000. For those entering healthcare fields or pursuing graduate studies, initial salaries can vary widely, but strong undergraduate preparation can lead to lucrative careers. Pre-law and Political Science majors often pursue law school, with lawyer salaries varying immensely. The strong regional placement in Des Moines means many graduates find solid mid-career salaries within Iowa's robust insurance and financial sectors. Those who leverage Drake's network and secure positions in higher-paying markets like Chicago or Minneapolis can expect higher starting and mid-career earnings than the statewide median might suggest.

Drake University offers a range of on-campus housing options designed to support students throughout their undergraduate journey. First-year students are typically required to live on campus, fostering a sense of community and providing easy access to university resources. Drake's residence halls vary in style, from traditional corridor-style living with shared bathrooms to suite-style accommodations. Popular first-year options include Fitzhall, Helser Hall, and Jewett Hall, known for their social atmosphere and convenience. As students progress, they can move into upper-class housing, which may include apartment-style residences or living-learning communities focused on specific academic or interest areas. Many dorms feature common areas for studying and socializing, laundry facilities, and basic amenities. While not luxurious, the dorms are generally well-maintained and provide a comfortable living environment. The university emphasizes creating safe and supportive residential communities, with Resident Assistants (RAs) available to assist students. Proximity to academic buildings, dining halls, and campus facilities is a key advantage of living on campus at Drake.

Drake University provides undergraduate research opportunities, though it is primarily an undergraduate-focused institution rather than a major research university. Students have the chance to engage in research projects, particularly within the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Faculty members often involve undergraduates in their research endeavors, offering hands-on experience in various disciplines, from biology and chemistry to psychology and political science. Drake also hosts an annual Student Research Symposium where students can present their findings. While the scale of research may not match that of large R1 universities, the advantage at Drake lies in the accessibility of faculty and the opportunity for personalized mentorship. Students seeking intensive, large-scale research experiences might find more options at larger institutions, but Drake offers a solid foundation for those interested in contributing to scholarly work and preparing for graduate studies that require research experience.

Drake University is often compared to other private universities in the Midwest that offer a blend of liberal arts and professional programs. Realistic peers include institutions like Grinnell College, Coe College, Cornell College (IA), and potentially Augustana College (IL). Compared to these, Drake's key advantage lies in its location within Des Moines, offering direct access to a significant regional job market, particularly in finance and insurance, which may be more limited at schools in smaller towns. Drake also tends to have a stronger emphasis on professional schools (Business, Law, Pharmacy) compared to some of the more purely liberal arts-focused institutions. However, Drake's sticker price is often higher than many regional public universities, and it may lack the national name recognition or the highly selective, intensive liberal arts focus of some top-tier liberal arts colleges like Grinnell. While Drake offers good career services, some highly selective peers might have stronger national alumni networks or more established pipelines to elite graduate programs or specific industries outside the Midwest.

Employers generally hold a positive view of graduates from Drake University, particularly those within the Midwest and in sectors where Drake has strong program offerings. The university's reputation is solid in fields like business (especially finance and insurance), journalism, and health sciences. Companies in Des Moines, such as Principal Financial Group, Wells Fargo, and UnityPoint Health, actively recruit Drake graduates and value their practical skills and preparedness. Drake's emphasis on experiential learning, internships, and career services means that many graduates enter the workforce with relevant experience, which employers appreciate. The alumni network, while perhaps not as vast nationally as some larger universities, is strong and engaged within Iowa and surrounding states, providing valuable connections. While Drake may not have the same level of national brand recognition as Ivy League or top-tier liberal arts schools, its graduates are seen as well-educated, professionally oriented, and ready to contribute, especially within the regional economy. The practical, career-focused approach of Drake's programs contributes to a favorable employer perception.