Drake University

Drake University is a Private Nonprofit institution in Des Moines, IA with approximately 2,543 students. Drake University has a strong graduation rate and decent earnings potential for graduates. The university offers a medium-sized campus with a diverse student body, including a significant percentage of Asian students. Drake University's tuition is high, but the median earnings after 10 years are relatively good, suggesting a positive ROI for some students.

Drake University is recognized for its strong interdisciplinary approach and a commitment to experiential learning, particularly evident in its highly regarded Colleges of Business and Public Administration, Pharmacy and Health Sciences, and Arts and Sciences. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving, preparing students for a dynamic job market. A standout feature is the Drake Curriculum, which ensures students gain a broad liberal arts foundation alongside their major, fostering well-rounded graduates. Research opportunities are readily available, even for undergraduates, with faculty actively seeking student involvement in projects across various disciplines. While specific faculty salary data isn't provided, the university's private status and commitment to academic rigor suggest a faculty composed of dedicated scholars and practitioners. The student-faculty ratio, though not explicitly stated, is generally kept low at private institutions like Drake to facilitate personalized attention. The Honors Program offers a challenging academic path for high-achieving students, providing enriched coursework and research opportunities. Drake also boasts robust study abroad programs, encouraging students to gain global perspectives. Academic support is a priority, with resources like the Student Success Center offering tutoring, academic advising, and workshops to help students navigate their academic journey and achieve their goals.

Drake University offers a comprehensive financial aid program designed to make its private education accessible. A significant portion of Drake students receive some form of financial assistance, primarily through merit-based scholarships and need-based aid. Merit scholarships are often awarded automatically based on academic achievement (GPA and standardized test scores, if submitted) at the time of admission, with amounts varying widely. For instance, top academic scholarships can range from $15,000 to over $30,000 annually. Need-based aid, determined by the FAFSA and potentially the CSS Profile, includes grants and institutional aid. Drake aims to meet a substantial portion of demonstrated need for admitted students. Work-study opportunities are also available, providing students with part-time employment on campus to help cover living expenses. Typical aid packages for middle-income families might combine merit scholarships with some need-based grants, potentially reducing the net cost significantly. For families with an annual income of, say, $75,000-$100,000, a combination of merit and need-based aid could bring the out-of-pocket cost down considerably from the sticker price of $52,130. Scholarship tips include applying early, highlighting extracurricular achievements and leadership roles, and exploring external scholarship opportunities. While Drake is generally considered receptive to aid negotiation, especially if you have competing offers from similarly ranked institutions or a documented change in financial circumstances, it's crucial to present a well-reasoned case with supporting documentation.

Drake University graduates are positioned for success primarily within the Midwest, leveraging the university's strong connections in finance, insurance, marketing, and healthcare. Major employers that actively recruit from Drake include Principal Financial Group, Wells Fargo, Nationwide Insurance, and UnityPoint Health, all of which have significant operations in Des Moines. Alumni also find opportunities in Chicago, a major hub for finance and marketing, and Minneapolis, particularly in the healthcare and technology sectors. Industries where Drake alumni cluster most heavily are financial services, insurance, marketing and advertising, healthcare administration, and education. While specific graduate school placement rates vary by program, Drake has a solid track record of placing students into top-tier law schools, business programs, and medical schools, often with strong support from faculty advisors. Notable alumni include former Iowa Governor Robert D. Ray and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Clark Mollenhoff. Drake's career services are generally well-regarded, offering robust internship placement assistance, resume workshops, and networking events. The university emphasizes experiential learning, fostering strong internship pipelines with local and regional businesses. Many students secure internships at companies like Meredith Corporation, EMC Insurance, and various startups in the Des Moines tech scene, which often translate into full-time offers. Geographic hiring patterns show a strong concentration of graduates remaining in Iowa, particularly in the Des Moines metropolitan area, followed by significant placements in Illinois (especially Chicago) and Minnesota.

Drake University offers a vibrant campus life deeply integrated with the city of Des Moines, providing students with a unique blend of a traditional college experience and urban exploration. The campus itself is an attractive, walkable space, often described as an oasis in the city, with iconic buildings like the Olmsted-designed Sheslow Auditorium serving as a central hub. Social life at Drake is active but not overwhelming, characterized by a strong sense of community. While Greek life is present and popular, with several fraternities and sororities contributing to the social scene, it doesn't dominate campus culture, leaving ample room for diverse interests. Student organizations are plentiful, covering everything from academic clubs and cultural groups to intramural sports and volunteer initiatives. The Drake University Student Activities Board (DUSAB) is a key player in organizing campus events, from concerts and movie nights to larger traditions like Homecoming, which is a significant event for alumni and current students alike. For those seeking a more structured social environment, the university offers various living-learning communities and residential halls that foster close-knit groups. Athletics are a point of pride, with the Bulldogs competing in the Missouri Valley Conference, drawing enthusiastic crowds to games, especially basketball. The 'vibe' at Drake is often described as engaged, ambitious, and community-oriented, with students who are eager to make the most of both their academic and extracurricular pursuits, leveraging the resources of both the university and its surrounding urban environment.

Drake University's location in Des Moines, Iowa, offers a unique set of advantages and considerations for students. Des Moines is a growing metropolitan area with a strong economy, particularly in the insurance, finance, and technology sectors. This provides a fertile ground for Drake graduates seeking employment in these fields, with major companies like Principal Financial Group and Wells Fargo headquartered or having substantial presences in the city. The cost of living in Des Moines is significantly lower than in major coastal hubs or even larger Midwestern cities like Chicago, making the overall financial picture for graduates more favorable. While Des Moines isn't a direct neighbor to a major industry hub like Silicon Valley or New York City, it is strategically located within a day's drive of Chicago and Minneapolis, offering access to broader job markets for those willing to relocate. The quality of life in Des Moines is often cited as a positive, with a vibrant downtown, numerous parks, cultural attractions, and a generally safe environment. The weather is typical of the Midwest, with distinct seasons including cold winters and warm summers. This location fosters a strong sense of community and allows Drake to cultivate deep relationships with local businesses, creating valuable internship and job opportunities that might be harder to access in more saturated markets. The relative affordability and strong job market in key sectors make Des Moines a practical launchpad for a career.

Drake University's admission process is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate around 63.8%. While not hyper-competitive, a strong application is essential. Drake values a holistic review, meaning they look beyond just grades and test scores. They seek students who demonstrate academic potential, a commitment to community, and a clear sense of purpose. For GPA, aiming for a B+ to A- average is generally advisable, though strong performance in challenging coursework is always a plus. While SAT/ACT scores are not provided, historically, successful applicants often fall within the middle 50% range of admitted students. If Drake is test-optional, focus on strengthening other parts of your application. The admissions essay is a crucial opportunity to showcase your personality, critical thinking, and unique experiences. Topics that highlight resilience, intellectual curiosity, leadership, or community involvement tend to resonate well. Demonstrated interest is often considered; engaging with Drake through campus visits (virtual or in-person), attending information sessions, and connecting with admissions counselors can positively impact your application. Applying Early Action (EA) can be advantageous, allowing you to receive an earlier decision and potentially more time to finalize your enrollment plans, though it is non-binding. The typical timeline involves applying by the November 1st EA deadline or the regular decision deadline of January 15th, with decisions released shortly thereafter.