Drake University
Des Moines, United States • Founded 1881 • World Rank #4930
Updated Jun 2026
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 contact information and physical address — the basics you'll want before applying or visiting. Bookmark this page as a single reference point during the application cycle.
Academic Details
The basic academic profile of Drake University, including enrolment and faculty composition. Total student count fluctuates intake-to-intake; treat the figure as approximate rather than precise.
Academic Structures
Browse the academic-unit structure of Drake University. Multi-faculty programmes exist but are usually administered by a lead faculty that handles admissions and credentialing.
Unit 6 items
- College of Arts and Sciences
- College of Business and Public Administration
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
- School of Education
- School of Journalism and Mass Communication
- School of Law
Programs Offered
Drake University's programme list, with search and degree-level grouping. Search matches programme names; if you don't see your subject, check the divisions section to locate the relevant faculty.
79 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 52 programmes
Showing 10 of 52.
Master's Degree 17 programmes
Showing 10 of 17.
Doctorate 1 programme
Professional Doctorate 3 programmes
Associate's Degree 2 programmes
Postgraduate Certificate 4 programmes
How to apply to Drake University
Step-by-step guidance for applying to Drake University, covering the typical sequence from programme selection to admissions follow-up.
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1
Browse the programme catalogue
Use the programme finder to browse Drake University's 79 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 answers to the most common questions about Drake University — covering location, founding, ranking, programmes, and admissions context.
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 4,000-4,999 students.
How is Drake University ranked?
Drake University is ranked #4930 globally and #504 in United States.
What is Drake University's academic structure?
Drake University is organised into 6 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)
Beyond Drake University, these universities also belong to National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) — useful for students who weight inter-institutional partnerships, exchange programmes, or shared accreditation frameworks. Membership networks often translate into practical student benefits.
Faculties at nearby universities
Alumni networks within a region often outlast individual institutional choice. Universities near Drake University share post-grad employer connections that benefit students from any of them.
Where Else to Study Education & Teaching
Other universities in the United States that teach Education & Teaching appear below — useful for comparing programme depth against Drake University. Programme structures differ even within the same country, so detailed comparison is worth the effort.
Universities Compared with Drake University
When students choose Drake University, they typically weigh it against institutions of similar standing. These universities sit at a comparable level — useful comparisons before committing to a final choice, especially when programme content is similar across the options.
Studying in United States: guides and resources
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