About the College

Welcome to the Zimpleman College of Business. It’s no secret you have many options where you might pursue your undergraduate or graduate business education. So, why Drake? What makes us the place to develop your future?

First, our faculty’s combined business and teaching experience sets us apart from other universities—and you’ll actually be taught by professors, not teaching assistants. With 48 full-time faculty members and 20 staff members, we are committed to doing the work needed to ensure that our graduates will be equipped with the technical skills, business acumen, empathy, and experience to prepare students for immediate and lasting success. We do this by giving students the opportunity to work with actual clients on relevant business matters, bringing in business leaders on a regular basis to work with students, and engagint students in the Drake community.

Drake’s ideal location in the state capital of Des Moines means more opportunities for you as a student. The city is home to Fortune 500 companies, innovative agriculture businesses, leading insurance agencies, a range of multi-national corporations, and a growing entrepreneurial scene. You’ll have myriad opportunities for internships, hands-on learning, and building extensive networks. Our strong relationships with local business leaders, as well as national and international executives and successful Drake alumni, will benefit you both during your time at Drake and into your professional life.

Our undergraduate students begin business coursework their freshman year, so they are exposed to the business curriculum, professors, and community leaders one to two years before students enrolled in other business programs. Our rigorous academic training emphasizes the development of advanced business acumen as well as communication, writing, and presentation skills.

Classroom learning is enhanced by programs such as our Executive in Residence, J.W. Paquette Young Alumni Career Series, Centers & Institutes, as well as career fairs and internship opportunities offered through our Professional and Career Development Center. All of these experiences put Drake students ahead of the competition come graduation. Despite the challenges we have faced with the global pandemic over the last 12 months, students leaving Drake with an undergraduate degree are achieving success. 96% are employed, enrolled in a graduate program, or achieving other professional goals. 

The College of Business also offers four graduate-level degrees that are enhanced by our relationships with leading executives, public officials, and nonprofit directors. Certificate programs, tailored executive programs, and continuing professional education are offered through the Center for Professional Studies.

We recognize that our students are clearly seeking value alignment in their careers and in their personal lives. We also know that companies are recognizing the influence of social and environmental outcomes on financial results, and communities are increasingly expecting corporate leaders -and public administrators - to use their influence to impact political and cultural issues. For these reasons, our college is seeing to lead the way in making business education a force for good, contributing to the global economy, and to society.