Overview of Drake University
Drake University, located in Des Moines, Iowa, is a private university known for its commitment to providing a transformative education within a vibrant and inclusive community. Established in 1881, Drake has a rich history and a strong reputation for academic excellence, community engagement, and professional preparation.
History and Mission:
Drake University was founded by George T. Carpenter, a Disciples of Christ minister, with the support of other community leaders. The university was named after Francis Marion Drake, a governor of Iowa and Civil War general, in recognition of his contributions to the state.
The university’s mission is rooted in the values of the Disciples of Christ tradition, emphasizing intellectual and moral development, individual and social responsibility, and a commitment to global citizenship. Drake aims to provide an exceptional learning environment that prepares students for meaningful lives and successful careers.
Academic Programs:
Drake University offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across six colleges and schools. These include the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business and Public Administration, School of Education, School of Journalism and Mass Communication, Law School, and the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
The university is known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning, research opportunities, and interdisciplinary studies. The Drake Curriculum, a unique general education program, ensures that students receive a well-rounded education that includes courses in critical thinking, global and cultural understanding, and engaged citizenship.
Campus and Facilities:
Drake’s campus is situated in the heart of Des Moines, providing students with access to the cultural, economic, and political opportunities of Iowa’s capital city. The campus features a mix of historic and modern buildings, including the iconic Old Main, which stands as a testament to the university’s long history.
Facilities include state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and recreational spaces. Cowles Library serves as a hub for research and academic resources, offering extensive collections and study areas. The Harmon Fine Arts Center provides spaces for artistic and cultural activities, reflecting Drake’s commitment to the arts.
Student Life:
Drake University is known for its vibrant and engaged student community. Students have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including student organizations, clubs, and cultural events. The university hosts numerous events and traditions, fostering a sense of community and school spirit.
The Drake Bulldogs compete in NCAA Division I athletics, and the school spirit is evident at sporting events. The Drake Relays, an annual track and field event, is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the United States, attracting top athletes from around the world.
Community Engagement:
A key aspect of the Drake experience is the emphasis on community engagement and service. The university encourages students to apply their knowledge and skills to address real-world challenges through service-learning opportunities, internships, and community partnerships. The commitment to civic responsibility aligns with Drake’s mission to prepare students for lives of leadership and service.
Professional Preparation:
Drake University is widely recognized for its strong emphasis on preparing students for successful careers. The university’s location in Des Moines, a hub for business, government, and nonprofit organizations, provides students with valuable internship and networking opportunities. The College of Business and Public Administration, in particular, is known for its high-quality programs and connections to the business community.
The Law School at Drake is well-regarded, offering a rigorous legal education and contributing to the legal profession through its graduates and faculty scholarship. The College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences prepares students for careers in healthcare, emphasizing patient-centered care and interprofessional collaboration.
Global Perspective:
Drake University places a significant emphasis on global education, encouraging students to develop a global perspective through study abroad programs, international courses, and global engagement initiatives. The university’s commitment to preparing students for an interconnected world aligns with its mission to cultivate informed and culturally competent graduates.
Conclusion:
Drake University stands as a dynamic and inclusive institution with a rich history and a commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and professional preparation. The university’s emphasis on experiential learning, service, and global citizenship contributes to a holistic education that prepares students not only for successful careers but also for lives of purpose and ethical leadership.
2507 University Avenue Des Moines, IA 50311
Phone: (515) 271-3181
Email: admission@drake.edu
Web site: http://www.drake.edu
Rankings: Drake University
Located in Des Moines, IA, Drake University is one of the best universities in the state of Iowa. On this page, you will find in-depth rankings for Drake University in the following areas: graduation rates, teaching resources, financing opportunities, and alumni donations. Latest acceptance rate is also given to show how competitive is Drake University.
| Rankings, Ratings, and Admissions Statistics | |
| Overall Ranking: | 3 |
| Score: | 86 |
| Peer college rating (out of 5) | 4.0 |
| Graduation and retention ranking: | 8 |
| Average freshman retention rate: | 86.2% |
| 6-year graduation rate: | 71.3% |
| Predicted graduation rate: | N/A |
| Overperformance(+)/Underperformance(-): | N/A |
| Faculty resources ranking: | 24 |
| Classes with under 20 students (2020): | 36.4% |
| Classes with 50 or more students (2020): | 9.2% |
| Student faculty ratio (2020): | 14:1 |
| Percent of faculty who are full-time (2020) | 85.5% |
| Student selectivity ranking: | 3 |
| SAT/ACT 25th-75th percentile (2020) | 24-29 |
| 2020 Freshmen in top 10 percent of high school class: | 41% |
| Freshmen in top 25 percent of high school class (2020): | 73% |
| Fall 2020 Acceptance rate: | 69.3% |
| Financial resources rank: | 31 |
| Alumni giving rank: | 33 |
| Average alumni giving rate (2020): | 14.7% |
Essential Facts: Drake University
- Drake University is small enough where the professors know each of the students by name and that is the greatest feeling of all; to have that level of communication with professors.
- Drake University’s ranking in the 2021 edition of Best Colleges is National Universities, #124. Drake University, located in Des Moines, Iowa, offers a range of student activities.
- Drake is made up of six schools and colleges. Graduate programs include those in the School of Education, School of Law and the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
Rules and regulations Sports Activities
| General Information | |
| Percent of undergraduate students who live in college-owned, operated, or affiliated housing: | 72% |
| Percent of undergraduates who are members of a fraternity: | 12% |
| Percent of student body who are members of a sorority: | 15% |
| Average percentage of students on campus during weekends: | 80% |
| Are all students permitted to have cars on campus? | Yes |
| Percent of students who have cars on campus: | 65% |
| Is alcohol permitted on campus for students of legal age? | Yes |
| Additional policies and regulations: | class attendance policies set by individual instructors, hazing prohibited, smoking prohibited, other |
| Collegiate athletic association: | NCAA I |
| Men’s scholarship sports: | basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, tennis, track and field (indoor), track and field (outdoor) |
| Women’s scholarship sports: | basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, track and field (indoor), track and field (outdoor), volleyball |
| Student activities: | campus ministries, choral groups, concert band, drama/theater, international student organization, jazz band, literary magazine, marching band, model UN, music ensembles, musical theater, pep band, radio station, student government, student newspaper, symphony orchestra |