This fall, Drake University is celebrating the arrival of 829 new students, marking a 12.5% increase from last year. These first-year, associate, and transfer students come from 31 states and 28 countries, adding to Drake’s vibrant community.
- First-year bachelor students now total 653, reflecting a growth of 10.9% from 2024.
- Enrollment at John Dee Bright College, Drake’s two-year program, has reached a historic high with a 30.6% increase.
- There’s also a 14.2% rise in incoming transfer students and recent Bright College grads continuing their education at Drake.
This year’s class showcases a rich diversity, with 33.2% of students from varied backgrounds. This raises the university’s overall diversity to an impressive 29.6%, the highest in its history.
Dr. Marty Martin, President of Drake University, expressed pride in the new Bulldogs. He highlighted their eagerness to learn through hands-on experiences. “They will leave Drake ready for meaningful lives and careers,” he noted.
A Focus on Accessibility
Drake has put significant effort into making education accessible for everyone. Initiatives like the Bulldog Promise offer full-tuition coverage for qualifying students. With a commitment of $54 million to scholarships, these programs are transforming lives.
- Pell Grant Eligibility: 30% of first-year students qualify for the Federal Pell Grant, reaching an all-time high for Drake.
- Diversity Growth: The incoming class’s diversity increased significantly, up to 33.2%.
- First-Generation Students: 28.1% of these students are the first in their families to attend college.
- Bull Dog Promise Participants: This fall, 60 students qualified for the Bulldog Promise, while 31 are attending Bright College tuition-free.
Academic Highlights
- The College of Arts & Sciences saw an 11% rise in bachelor enrollments.
- College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences experienced its highest enrollment in five years, partly due to its new Accelerated Nursing Program.
- Zimpleman College of Business hit a five-year high with a 20.8% increase in enrollment.
- Bright College achieved a historic enrollment high with a 30.6% increase.
- School of Education increased graduate credit hours, supported by a new Teacher Intern Program.
- Drake Law School reached a ten-year enrollment peak, up by 16.8% from last year.
Global Initiatives
Drake is also stepping into the global arena with its first international dual-degree program, partnering with Qingdao University in China. This program allows students to earn degrees in Data Analytics or Biology at Drake. For the 2025 academic year, 170 new students will join the returning class of 167 from last fall, expanding Drake’s international reach.
As Drake moves forward, these changes reflect a commitment to inclusivity and global education, providing opportunities for a diverse range of students.
