Drake University
Address: Drake University, 2507 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311, USA
Phone: +1 515-271-2011
Email: admission@drake.edu
Website: www.drake.edu
About Drake University
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 (uniRank enrollment range: 4,000-4,999 students) 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. See the uniRank degree levels and areas of study table below for further details. 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.
Why Drake University
Drake University is renowned for several reasons that make it stand out, particularly in the Midwest region of the United States:
1. Drake Relays
- Drake hosts the Drake Relays, one of the largest and most famous annual track and field events in the U.S. Drawing athletes from around the world, including Olympians and professional track stars, this event has been held since 1910 and brings national attention to the university each spring.
2. Strong Law School Reputation
- Drake University Law School is one of the oldest law schools in the United States, established in 1865. It is particularly known for its Constitutional Law Center, one of only four in the country established by Congressional mandate. The law school has a solid reputation for public service law, agricultural law, and constitutional law, often drawing students interested in these areas.
3. Political Engagement and the Iowa Caucuses
- Located in Iowa, Drake University has a strong connection to national politics, especially as Iowa is the first state to hold caucuses in the presidential election cycle. This provides Drake students with rare opportunities to engage in U.S. politics, participate in caucus events, and intern with campaigns, which has become a hallmark of the university’s political science and journalism programs.
4. High-Quality Business and Journalism Programs
- Drake’s College of Business and Public Administration and School of Journalism and Mass Communication are well-regarded and provide students with connections to Des Moines’ robust business and media networks. The university's business programs are notable for their focus on real-world experience, and the journalism program prepares students for careers in media, public relations, and digital content creation.
5. Emphasis on Hands-On Learning
- Drake emphasizes experiential learning across all fields of study, with numerous internship opportunities, community-based projects, and faculty-led research initiatives. This practical approach gives students industry-relevant experience before they graduate, contributing to a high job placement rate.
6. Close-Knit Community and Focus on Liberal Arts
- As a smaller private university, Drake has a strong emphasis on liberal arts education and a tight-knit, supportive community. With small class sizes, students receive personalized attention and mentorship from faculty, which is a notable attraction for students seeking a more intimate college experience.
7. Global and Cultural Initiatives
- Drake has developed initiatives to encourage global awareness and diversity on campus. The university offers various study abroad programs, global internships, and partnerships with international universities. These efforts enhance students’ cultural competencies and global perspectives, aligning with Drake’s commitment to producing well-rounded graduates.
Drake University combines a strong academic reputation with unique cultural and athletic traditions, making it a well-regarded institution not only in the Midwest but also nationally. Its commitment to civic engagement, hands-on learning, and a supportive academic environment has established it as a prominent, respected university.
Drake University requires international applicants to demonstrate proficiency in English to ensure they can succeed in an English-speaking academic environment. Here are the main ways students can fulfill this requirement:
1. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- Internet-Based Test (iBT): Minimum score of 71
- Paper-Based Test: Minimum score of 530
2. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- Minimum overall score of 6.0
3. Duolingo English Test
- Minimum score of 100
4. SAT or ACT Scores
- International students may submit SAT or ACT scores, particularly for those whose first language is English. There are no specific minimum scores required, but strong performance may support the application.
5. PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
- Minimum score of 48
6. EIKEN (Test in Practical English Proficiency)
- Minimum of Grade 2A or higher
7. English Waivers
- Students from countries where English is the primary language of instruction or those who have completed significant coursework in English may be exempt from language testing requirements. This waiver is typically granted at the discretion of the admissions office.
8. Conditional Admission and ESL Pathway Program
- Drake offers a Pathway Program for students who need additional English language support. This allows students to enroll in English as a Second Language (ESL) courses and gradually transition to full-time academic study.
Drake's English language requirements ensure students have the necessary skills to engage fully in academic programs. Students meeting or exceeding these scores will typically satisfy the university’s language proficiency criteria.
Drake University, located in Des Moines, Iowa, is known for its well-rounded academic programs with particular strengths in law, business, journalism, and pharmacy. Here are some of the university’s standout course specialities:
1. Law (Drake University Law School)
- Drake Law School is one of the oldest in the nation, with a strong focus on constitutional law, agricultural law, public service, and trial advocacy.
- The Constitutional Law Center is one of only four in the U.S. established by Congress, making it a unique feature of the program.
2. Pharmacy and Health Sciences
- Drake’s College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is known for its Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program, along with health sciences degrees.
- The program emphasizes clinical experience and hands-on training, making it a popular choice for students pursuing pharmacy, health sciences, and related fields.
3. Business and Public Administration
- Drake's College of Business and Public Administration offers degrees in accounting, finance, entrepreneurship, marketing, management, and public administration.
- It has a strong emphasis on real-world experience through partnerships with the local business community, internships, and networking opportunities in Des Moines, a financial and insurance hub.
4. Journalism and Mass Communication
- The School of Journalism and Mass Communication offers programs in advertising, public relations, news journalism, digital media production, and strategic political communication.
- Students gain experience in broadcast and digital journalism and have access to Des Moines’ local news networks, radio, and TV stations for internships.
5. Education
- Drake's School of Education offers degrees in elementary education, secondary education, and special education, along with graduate programs in counseling, literacy, and educational leadership.
- The program is recognized for integrating technology into the classroom and provides a strong foundation in practical teaching methods.
6. Political Science and International Relations
- Drake offers robust programs in political science, international relations, and policy studies.
- The university’s location in Iowa, known for its early political caucuses, provides students unique opportunities for engagement in the political process, internships, and exposure to presidential campaigns.
7. Performing Arts
- The Theatre Arts program at Drake is known for offering comprehensive training in acting, musical theatre, technical theatre, and directing.
- Students participate in annual productions and collaborate with Iowa’s theater community, allowing them to gain hands-on experience.
8. Environmental Science and Sustainability
- The Environmental Science and Policy program offers a cross-disciplinary approach to environmental studies, combining aspects of biology, policy, and economics.
- This program prepares students for careers in conservation, policy-making, and sustainable development.
9. Data Analytics
- As an emerging field, data analytics at Drake focuses on data-driven decision-making skills, offering students training in statistical analysis, big data, and business intelligence.
- This program is part of the business college and is popular among students aiming for careers in business, finance, and healthcare analytics.
Drake University is home to several notable professors who are recognized for their expertise, research, and contributions to student education. Here are a few standout faculty members across its key programs:
1. Professor Sally Frank - Law
- A professor at Drake University Law School, Frank is known for her work in constitutional law, civil rights, and gender equality. Her advocacy for women’s rights and her significant contributions to legal scholarship make her a well-regarded figure in both academia and public service.
2. Professor Debra Bishop - Business (Management and Entrepreneurship)
- Bishop is a professor in the College of Business and Public Administration and is known for her focus on entrepreneurship and strategic management. She is highly regarded for integrating practical business experience into the classroom, helping students understand real-world applications of business theories.
3. Professor Rachel Boon - Political Science and International Relations
- Boon is a respected faculty member in political science, known for her research on international relations and public policy. Her deep expertise and teaching style make her a favorite among students interested in understanding global politics and governmental structures.
4. Professor Eric Saylor - Music and Music History
- Saylor, a professor in the Department of Music, specializes in music history and British music. He has published extensively on English composers and is known for his engaging classes that explore music in both historical and cultural contexts.
5. Professor Keith Summerville - Environmental Science and Ecology
- A professor in environmental science and policy, Summerville focuses on ecology and biodiversity. His research on conservation biology and his involvement with ecological field studies provide students with hands-on learning experiences, especially valuable in environmental studies.
6. Professor Jennifer Harvey - Religion and Ethics
- Harvey, a professor of religion and ethics, is known for her work on race, religion, and social justice. She has authored several books and is an active public speaker on topics related to racial reconciliation and ethics, which greatly enhances her students’ understanding of these complex societal issues.
7. Professor David Skidmore - Political Science and International Relations
- Skidmore is known for his expertise in international relations and foreign policy. As an advisor and mentor, he provides students with insight into diplomatic studies and prepares them for careers in global policy-making and international organizations.
8. Professor Thomas Westbrook - Pharmacy and Health Sciences
- Westbrook is recognized in the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences for his contributions to pharmacy practice and clinical research. His extensive background in pharmaceutical sciences helps prepare students for careers in the healthcare sector.
These professors at Drake University contribute significantly to the university’s reputation, particularly in areas such as law, business, environmental science, and political science, enriching the academic experience for their students.
Drake University does not have any Nobel Prize winners among its faculty or alumni, as its focus has traditionally been on undergraduate education and professional programs such as law, business, pharmacy, and journalism. Nobel Prizes are often awarded in fields like scientific research, literature, economics, and peace—areas that are more common in large research institutions or those with extensive graduate programs in the sciences.
Instead, Drake University’s faculty and alumni have been recognized with other prestigious honors, particularly in fields relevant to the university’s strengths. Faculty and alumni have made significant contributions in legal scholarship, journalism, business leadership, and civic engagement, and the university is known for producing influential professionals, particularly in the Midwest. While Nobel Prizes are not part of its accolades, Drake is celebrated for its academic rigor and impact in fields like public service law, politics, and media.