If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Where is Drake University?” you’re not alone. Nestled in the heart of Des Moines, Iowa, this private institution has been a cornerstone of higher education since 1881. As of March 2025, Drake University continues to thrive in its urban setting, offering a blend of academic excellence and vibrant campus life. Whether you’re a prospective student, a curious parent, or just someone intrigued by its reputation, let’s dive into everything you need to know about its location, history, and what makes it special today.
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A Closer Look at Drake University’s Home
Drake University calls Des Moines, Iowa, its home—a city that’s both the state capital and a growing hub in the Midwest. Located at 2507 University Avenue, the campus spans 150 acres of lush, park-like grounds, just five minutes from downtown Des Moines. This prime spot gives students easy access to a bustling urban scene filled with internships, cultural events, and job opportunities. Unlike sprawling rural campuses, Drake’s urban setting offers a unique balance: a tight-knit community feel with big-city perks right at your fingertips.
Des Moines itself is on the rise. Often dubbed one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest, it’s home to Fortune 500 companies like Principal Financial Group and a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. For students, this means real-world experience is just a short walk or drive away. The city’s blend of modern skyscrapers and historic charm adds a lively backdrop to Drake’s campus life. Plus, with a population of about 215,000, it’s big enough to keep things exciting but small enough to avoid feeling overwhelming.
Where Is Drake University on the Map?
To pinpoint Drake University geographically, it sits at approximately 41.6005° N latitude and 93.6575° W longitude. That places it smack in the middle of Iowa, roughly 300 miles west of Chicago and 200 miles northeast of Kansas City. If you’re flying in, the Des Moines International Airport is about 15 minutes from campus, making it a breeze to visit or move in. Major highways like I-80 and I-35 intersect nearby, so road trips to campus are straightforward too.
Here’s a quick table to give you a sense of Drake’s location relative to some key cities:
| City | Distance from Drake (Miles) | Drive Time (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago, IL | 330 | 5 hours |
| Kansas City, MO | 190 | 3 hours |
| Omaha, NE | 135 | 2 hours |
| Minneapolis, MN | 245 | 4 hours |
This central Midwest location makes Drake accessible yet distinct, offering a quieter alternative to coastal or mega-city schools while keeping students connected to regional hotspots.
A Brief History of Drake’s Roots
Drake University didn’t just pop up overnight. Founded in 1881 by George T. Carpenter and Francis Marion Drake—a Civil War general and former Iowa governor—the school started with 77 students and a single building called Student’s Home. Named after Francis Marion Drake, whose financial support got it off the ground, the university originally tied itself to the Disciples of Christ church. That affiliation ended in 1907, paving the way for its growth as a secular institution.
Over the decades, Drake evolved from a small college into a mid-sized university with a national reputation. Old Main, completed in 1883, still stands as a campus icon, housing administrative offices and hosting events like presidential debates. Today, with around 5,000 students from 45 states and over 40 countries, Drake blends its historic charm with a forward-looking vibe.
What’s New at Drake in 2025?
As of March 20, 2025, Drake University remains a dynamic place. Enrollment hovers around 2,700 undergraduates and 2,300 graduate students, according to the latest fall 2023 figures, with no major shifts reported since. The campus continues to buzz with over 160 student organizations, Division I athletics in the Missouri Valley Conference, and a strong focus on experiential learning. Recent news highlights include a grant for expanding its water quality lab, announced in February 2025, showing Drake’s commitment to cutting-edge research.
The university’s ranking in the 2025 U.S. News Best Colleges list sits at #179 among National Universities—a slight dip from previous years but still respectable for a school of its size. Tuition for the 2024-2025 academic year is $49,944, though it’s likely ticked up slightly for 2025-2026 (official figures aren’t out yet). Des Moines itself keeps growing, with new businesses and cultural spots popping up, enhancing the student experience off-campus too.
Where Is Drake University in the Academic World?
Beyond its physical location, Drake holds a solid spot in the academic landscape. It offers over 100 undergraduate majors and 35 graduate programs across six colleges and schools, including standout programs in law, business, and pharmacy. The Drake Law School, one of the 25 oldest in the U.S., traces its roots to 1865 and boasts a chapter of the Order of the Coif—a rare honor. Meanwhile, the School of Journalism & Mass Communication has earned national praise, with its magazine program once called the strongest undergrad sequence in the country.
Students love the hands-on approach here. Over 92% snag at least one internship before graduating, and in 2023, 97.3% of grads landed jobs or grad school spots. The small class sizes—think professors who actually know your name—make a big difference. Plus, the J-Term (January Term) lets students dive into focused, three-week courses or travel abroad without juggling a full semester’s load.
Campus Life and Surroundings
Living at Drake means embracing a campus that’s both gorgeous and practical. The 150-acre grounds feature tree-lined paths, modern facilities like the Knapp Center (home to basketball and volleyball), and the Olmsted Center for student activities. Residence halls like Goodwin-Kirk and Herriott keep students close to the action, though they close for breaks like spring break (March 15-23, 2025, this year).
Step off campus, and Des Moines delivers. You’ve got local eats, coffee shops, and internship opportunities galore. The city’s art scene, with spots like the Des Moines Art Center, adds a cultural kick. And if you’re into sports, catching a Drake Bulldogs game—especially basketball—is a must. The famous Drake Relays, a massive track-and-field event since 1910, still draws crowds every April.
Getting There and Settling In
Planning a visit? Driving’s easy with those nearby highways, and the airport’s proximity is a bonus for out-of-towners. Once you’re there, the campus layout makes getting around a cinch—everything’s walkable, and downtown’s a quick jaunt away. New students moving in for spring 2025, for example, can settle into residence halls starting January 25 at noon, per the latest residence life updates.
For international students, Drake’s authorized to issue I-20 or DS-2019 forms for F-1 or J-1 visas, welcoming a global crowd. The admissions team looks at your whole profile—grades, test scores (optional), and more—so it’s less about cutoffs and more about fit.
Final Thoughts
So, where is Drake University? It’s in Des Moines, Iowa, at the crossroads of opportunity and community. Whether you’re drawn by its academic clout, Midwest charm, or urban edge, Drake offers a spot where you can grow, explore, and connect. As of March 2025, it’s still evolving, staying true to its roots while embracing the future. Next time someone asks you about it, you’ll have the full scoop—location and all.