Drake University — private university in Des Moines, Iowa

Academic structure and programs

Drake offers a broad curriculum across multiple colleges and schools, with degree paths in the humanities, sciences, education, and the arts as well as targeted professional programs. Its organization includes colleges devoted to liberal learning, teacher preparation, business and public administration, and health sciences. Representative units and specializations include:

• Business and public administration programs that emphasize leadership and internships.
• Law, with a long history of legal education and clinical experiences.
• Pharmacy and health sciences, combining classroom work with laboratory training and community practice.

Professional education and experiential learning

Professional schools at Drake integrate classroom study with hands-on opportunities: legal clinics, internship placements in the state capital, and pharmacy training that connects students to clinical settings. The law program is among the older law schools in the United States and has historically emphasized practical training alongside scholarship.

History and development

The university was founded in the 1880s and named for Francis M. Drake, a Civil War veteran and Iowa governor. From modest beginnings it grew by adding professional schools and expanding campus facilities through the 20th century. Its mission blends liberal education with preparation for specific careers, reflecting changing educational needs across generations.

Campus life and athletic tradition

Situated in an urban environment, the campus hosts academic buildings, residence halls, and student activity centers. Athletics compete at the NCAA Division I level; the school's teams are commonly known as the Bulldogs and participate in regional conferences. Drake is also widely recognized for the Drake Relays, an annual track and field meet that draws collegiate and professional competitors and contributes to the university's national profile.

Beyond the classroom, Drake maintains partnerships with local organizations, government agencies, and healthcare providers to support research, internships, and service learning. These connections strengthen career preparation for graduates and sustain the university's role as an educational and civic presence in central Iowa.