World-class education with personal attention
Drake University is recognized as one of the finest universities in the Midwest. As a midsize, private university, Drake offers students the benefits and resources of a larger institution with the advantages of intimate class sizes and close personal relationships.
The Drake Experience
When students connect with everything that makes Drake such a special place, they get what we call the Drake Experience. As a student, you'll follow a course of study called the Drake Curriculum which is designed to provide the foundation of a superb education. The Curriculum will help ensure balance in your academic experience and introduce you to a range of important ideas—from the skills of analysis that make for an effective critical thinker to an understanding of the power and uses of information in our digital world.
First Year Seminar: The First Year Seminar is a small class with no more than 20 students that focuses on a special topic. It’s all about dialogue, discovery, and making connections—connections between ideas and with your fellow travelers on this intellectual journey. In fact, you won’t just see your classmates in class; you’ll live in the same building with them, often on the same floor. Each First Year Seminar addresses a specific theme—topics that may strike you as surprising, like:
• Ghost Stories
• Conspiracy Theories in the US
• Ethics & Star Trek
• Exploring the Portrayal of Mental Illness
Honors Classes: No matter what area of study you choose, the Drake University Honors Program offers you the chance to make it even more interesting—and challenging. The program features discussion-based interdisciplinary courses, each with no more than 20 students. These classes are reading- and writing-intensive, helping you strengthen the intellectual abilities essential to success in any field.
Study Abroad: Take advantage of exciting opportunities to build global thinking skills while exploring and understanding cultures around the world through our study abroad programs. #BulldogsWithoutBorders
Experiential Learning: Even our talented, expert faculty members acknowledge that experience is the best teacher. That’s why Drake offers students in every major abundant opportunities to learn by doing through:
• Internships
• Professional & career development services
• Student leadership opportunities
Division I athletics
Build your athletic talent and contribute to team success while learning valuable life skills, including integrity, teamwork, empathy, problem-solving, leadership, the value of preparation, and how to support each other in victory and defeat. Go Drake Bulldogs!
Student clubs and organizations
Better grades? More fun? That’s what’s in store when you join student groups that are passionate about the same things you are. Whether you’re into kicking around soccer balls or big political ideas—with 160+ student clubs and organizations, you're sure to find the group that suits you. And if not, you can start your own!
