Overview
Established in 1881, the Drake University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Des Moines (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Iowa.
Officially accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Drake University (Drake) is a small-sized coeducational US higher education institution. Drake University (Drake) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 142-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 60-69% making this US higher education organization a moderately selective institution.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
Drake also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Drake University's physical location and contact details are listed below.
Academic Details
Drake University's key academic numbers — student body size, staffing, and accreditation context.
Academic Structures
Drake University's academic units are listed below, by type.
Unit 7 items
- College of Arts and Sciences
- College of Business and Public Administration
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
- John Dee Bright College
- School of Education
- School of Journalism and Mass Communication
- School of Law
Programs Offered
Drake University's programme catalogue is grouped by level below.
91 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 58 programmes
Showing 10 of 58.
Master's Degree 20 programmes
Showing 10 of 20.
Professional Doctorate 3 programmes
Associate's Degree 2 programmes
Certificate 6 programmes
Postgraduate Diploma 1 programme
Scholarships in United States
Scholarships and grants accessible to students attending Drake University or other universities in the United States are below.
How to apply to Drake University
What applying to Drake University involves, in five steps.
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1
Browse the programme catalogue
Use the programme finder to browse Drake University's 91 active programmes. Filter by keyword or scan by degree level. Read curriculum details on each programme's dedicated page if available.
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2
Check eligibility for your chosen programme
Programme-level requirements at Drake University typically include academic transcripts, language proficiency proof, identity documents, and a personal statement or interview. Confirm specific requirements with the admissions office.
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3
Get your documents ready
Prepare academic transcripts, ID/passport copies, language proficiency proof, a personal statement, and reference letters. International candidates may need apostilled or notarised translations — start early to avoid deadline pressure.
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4
Apply through the official channel
Drake University processes applications through www.drake.edu. Create an account, fill out the application form, and submit your documents. Note application deadlines, which vary by intake and programme.
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5
Reach out and track your application
Confirm receipt of your application with the admissions office and keep an eye on your portal for status changes. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (515) 271 2011. Quick responses to any follow-up requests keep your application moving smoothly through the review process.
Frequently Asked Questions about Drake University
Quick reference for Drake University: founding, control type, and recognition status.
When did Drake University open?
Drake University traces its founding to 1881 (approximately 145 years ago).
In which city is Drake University?
Drake University is based in Des Moines, United States.
Is Drake University public or private?
Drake University operates as a private institution.
How many students study at Drake University?
Drake University has approximately 2,543 students.
What is Drake University's academic structure?
Drake University is organised into 7 academic units across its disciplines.
Is Drake University accredited?
Drake University is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
How do I find Drake University online?
The institution's website is www.drake.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
Time-trend in rankings matters: rising universities in the United States may overtake Drake University or its peers over your study horizon. Year-on-year movement signals institutional momentum.
Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
Drake University and the universities below are both members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
Faculties at nearby universities
These universities are located near Drake University, listed below for students comparing options by location.
Where Else to Study Education & Teaching
Education & Teaching is also taught at these universities in the United States.
Universities Compared with Drake University
Below are universities sometimes compared with Drake University.
Studying in United States: guides and resources
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