PrivateUrbanDrake University
Drake
Des Moines, Iowa 50311-4505
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Strong graduate outcomes — known for business
Drake University is a private institution in Des Moines with particular strength in business and health sciences. With an average SAT of 1288, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A mid-sized campus of 2.7K undergraduates with a 10:1 student-faculty ratio. The urban location puts students at the center of city life.
77% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $71,901 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $30,042.
Rankings
More About This School
Varsity Sports — Ducklings and
History & Fun Facts
- •History Francis Marion Drake Old Main Administration Offices Drake University was founded in March 1881 by George T.
- •Drake was originally affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) at its founding, but the religious affiliation was terminated in 1907.
- •The first classes convened in 1881, with 77 students and one building constructed, Student's Home.
- •In 1883, the first permanent building, Old Main, was completed.
- •The university's law school–the second oldest law school in the country west of the Mississippi River, after Saint Louis University School of Law–was established in 1865, by Chester C.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1288
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Deadline Calendar
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
53.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
4.9%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$19,500
Programs (73)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
84%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
20
Peer Average
13
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from IA state average + city premium