College of Arts and Sciences
Drake’s Thriving, Multidisciplinary Ecosystem Built for Exploration
Drake University’s College of Arts and Sciences introduces undergraduate students to the vast range of human knowledge through programs in the humanities and social sciences, fine arts, and natural sciences. Whatever sparks your curiosity, our engaged community of lifelong learners encourages you to dig deeper into your passions, think more critically, and expand your perspective of our world.
Preparing you to tackle the challenges of the 21st century, your exploration begins in the classroom and extends far beyond—to exciting experiential and interdisciplinary opportunities on campus, in the Des Moines area, and all over the world. In the process, students observe the transformative potential of their knowledge and grow into active, inquisitive, and strategic leaders equipped for productive careers in a broad number of fields.
All Majors and Programs
Our 42 majors lead to transformative, forward-looking, and always-evolving careers. And however you structure your studies, you’ll have access to internships, artistic performances, research projects, study abroad, and community engagement opportunities that will shape you for life.
About the College of Arts and Sciences
People who make a difference—who change the world—don’t just ask hard questions. They pursue the answers. Inside and outside the classroom, Bulldogs will explore broad questions combined with a deep immersion into fascinating issues of our complex world.
%
Of Arts and Sciences undergrads launch their careers or begin grad school within six months of graduation.
+%
Of College of Arts and Sciences students participate in undergraduate research, internships, or related practical experiences.
%
Of Arts and Sciences students study abroad.
Experiential Learning
Study chimpanzee conservation in a Rwandan forest. Explore the intersection of art and anatomy in Renaissance Italy. Analyze lived experiences of unhoused individuals and shape local policy. Construct a sound and visual immersive experience with 16 pianos in the Anderson Art Gallery. These are just some of the hands-on opportunities you’ll find at Drake, regardless of your major.
Faculty and Student Research
Whether you’re drawn to curing disease or narrowing injustice, a Drake education is about putting knowledge to work. Every day, Drake faculty seek to understand and shape our world through the research they conduct, and students are encouraged to be part of the discovery process.
Centers and Institutes
To build knowledge, we partner with the community. Innovative centers, such as the Jay N. Darling Institute, Ron and Jane Olson Institute for Public Democracy, and Community of Digital Excellence (CODE), reinforce our commitment to change lives and transform communities here in Des Moines and far beyond.
Getting Involved
Expand your campus experience and encounter new perspectives through campus clubs, service projects, art performances, student publications, and other opportunities built on collaboration and shared interests.
Meet Our Faculty
The professors you remember the most are the ones who inspire you to think for yourself, invite you to participate in wide-ranging classroom discussions, and empower you to strive toward your goals. At Drake, you’ll encounter these types of professors every day, in every class.
Adina Kilpatrick
Associate Professor, Biophysics; Associate Dean, Biology
Student Testimonials
News and Events
Take the Next Step
Understanding and questioning the world around you sets the stage for a successful, fulfilling, and open-ended career. Begin building yours in Drake’s College of Arts and Sciences.
