Drury University
Acceptance rate
57.6%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$36,745
$49,017 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,391
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
44.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 63.6%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Drury University, located in Springfield, Missouri, is a distinguished institution known for its commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive environment. Founded in 1873, the university has developed a rich history and a strong academic reputation. Drury offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including business, education, and the arts, ensuring that students can find the right path to match their interests and career goals. The university emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to engage in internships, research, and community service, which enhances their practical skills and employability.
The campus itself is a vibrant hub of activity, featuring modern facilities and resources designed to support student learning and growth. The university places a strong focus on fostering a sense of community, encouraging collaboration among students, faculty, and staff. Drury's commitment to the liberal arts ensures that students receive a well-rounded education, promoting critical thinking and effective communication skills. Additionally, the university is known for its strong athletic programs and active student life, providing numerous opportunities for students to participate in sports, clubs, and organizations. The university's motto, "It’s a great day to be a Panther," reflects the school spirit and pride that permeates the campus, making Drury University a welcoming and enriching place for students to thrive.
Analysis of Key Metrics for Drury University
Drury University, a private institution, has shown notable trends in several areas over the past decade. One of the most significant changes is the increase in tuition fees. From 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition has surged from $22,295 to $35,235, marking a staggering increase of approximately 58%. This trend reflects a broader national pattern where tuition costs have consistently risen, often outpacing inflation, which raises concerns about the affordability of higher education.
Student enrollment has also exhibited a downward trajectory, with undergraduate numbers dropping from 4,775 in 2013 to just 1,375 in 2023. This decline of over 71% could be indicative of various factors, including rising tuition costs, shifts in demographics, or competition from other institutions. As enrollment decreases, institutions may face financial strain, leading to further tuition increases to compensate for lost revenue.
Additionally, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has shown a shift, with male students making up 45.6% of the undergraduate population in 2023, a slight increase from previous years. This gradual change reflects ongoing efforts to promote gender diversity in education, although female students still constitute the majority.
Finally, retention rates have fluctuated, with a notable drop to 75.9% in 2022, compared to 89.2% in 2013. This decline raises concerns about student satisfaction and institutional support, highlighting the importance of addressing the underlying causes that may contribute to students' decisions to leave before completing their degrees.
In conclusion, Drury University faces a complex landscape characterized by rising tuition, declining enrollment, shifting demographics, and fluctuating retention rates. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for the institution's future sustainability and reputation in the competitive higher education market.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Fayetteville, about 90 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Tulsa International Airport (TUL), about 160 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
- President
- Jeff Frederick (President)
- Phone
- 4178737879
- City
- Springfield, Missouri
- Address
- 900 N. Benton Ave, Springfield, MO 65802-3791
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 65.5%, women 63.7%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Drury University
The admission data from Drury University reveals several notable trends from 2009 to 2023. Over the years, there has been significant fluctuation in both male and female admission rates. For instance, in 2009, the male admission rate was approximately 72.5%, while the female admission rate was about 78.1%. Fast forward to 2023, the male admission rate decreased to around 64.8%, and the female admission rate dropped to about 63.1%. This decline may reflect increasing competition among applicants, possibly driven by a growing interest in higher education coupled with a more selective admission process.
Enrollment numbers have also varied significantly. The peak enrollment occurred in 2011 with 651 students, while the lowest enrollment was recorded in 2014 with only 325 students. This inconsistency could be indicative of external factors affecting student decisions, such as economic conditions or changes in the university's reputation and offerings.
The data also highlights an alarming trend in the number of applicants being denied admission. For instance, in 2023, a staggering 871 applicants were denied entry, which is notably higher than previous years. This trend may suggest that Drury University is becoming increasingly selective, which could have implications for the diversity and composition of the student body.
Overall, these trends suggest that while Drury University maintains a steady interest from applicants, the dynamics of admissions are evolving, warranting a closer examination of the factors influencing these changes.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Business School2 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 7% submitted SAT, 58% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Scores at Drury University
The admissions data from Drury University reveals several noteworthy trends over the years. Firstly, there has been a fluctuation in the number of students submitting standardized test scores, particularly the SAT and ACT. For instance, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores peaked at 16% in 2021, before dropping to 4% in 2023. This reflects a broader national trend where many colleges and universities have adopted test-optional policies, making standardized tests less central in the admissions process.
In terms of academic performance, the scores for both the SAT and ACT have shown variability. The SAT Reading scores for the top 25% of admitted students have ranged from a low of 445 to a high of 693, indicating a diverse applicant pool with varying levels of academic preparedness. The ACT Composite scores have similarly exhibited a range, with the top 25% scoring between 22 and 29, suggesting that Drury University attracts students with a wide spectrum of academic abilities.
Moreover, the data indicates that despite the declining submission rates, the scores of those who do submit have generally remained competitive. This could imply that students who opt to submit their scores are typically among the stronger candidates, which may influence the overall academic environment at the university.
Overall, the data highlights the evolving landscape of college admissions, where policies and applicant behaviors are changing, and Drury University appears to be adapting to these shifts by maintaining a focus on holistic admissions practices.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
2,690 applicants in 2025, 57.6% admitted
1,549 admitted 1,141 not admitted Yield 21.8%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Organizational Leadership · Master's15 (7% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's11 (0% international)
- Communication, General · Master's10 (30% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's9 (0% international)
- Public Administration · Master's7 (0% international)
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's4 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Drury University
The graduation data from Drury University for 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends across various academic disciplines. Notably, the Architecture program has the highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded, with 29 graduates, including 3 international students. This indicates a strong interest and investment in the field, likely reflecting the growing demand for architects and design professionals in today's job market.
In contrast, programs such as Special Education and Teaching show a unique dynamic, as they do not report any bachelor's degree graduates but awarded 17 master's degrees, with 1 international student. This suggests a potential shift in the educational landscape, emphasizing the need for advanced qualifications in specialized fields, which may be driven by increasing awareness of the importance of inclusive education.
The Psychology program also reflects a similar trend, with 23 bachelor's degrees awarded and 1 international student graduating. However, it lacks master's or doctorate figures, indicating that students might be opting to enter the workforce directly rather than pursuing further studies.
Interestingly, many programs, particularly in the performing arts and interdisciplinary studies, report no graduates at the bachelor's or master's levels, which could signify a need for greater recruitment efforts or a reevaluation of these programs' appeal. The absence of doctoral graduates across the board points to the challenges faced in advancing academic careers within these fields.
Overall, the data highlights a diverse landscape of academic achievement at Drury University, with some programs thriving while others may require strategic enhancements to attract and retain students. Understanding these trends can provide valuable insights for prospective students and educators alike, as they navigate the evolving demands of higher education and the job market.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $56,888-$64,043 | ||
| Organizational Leadership. | $56,888-$64,043 | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Finance, General. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - | ||
| Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $39,949 | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology. | - | ||
| Environmental Biology. | - | ||
| Neuroscience. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architecture. | $52,851 | ||
| Architectural Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education. | - | ||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $40,499 | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $34,913 | ||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $34,913 | ||
| Reading Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - | ||
| Journalism. | - | ||
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | - | ||
| Organizational Communication, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | - | ||
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $38,058 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | $37,672 | ||
| Game and Interactive Media Design. | $37,672 | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||
| Writing, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Music Therapy/Therapist. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Software Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $38,287-$47,008 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy and Religious Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urban Ministry. | - |
Students
1,615 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 79.2%
- Continuing undergraduates 955
- First-year undergraduates 337
- Graduate students 224
- Transfers and others 99
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,391)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Diversity and Gender Representation at Drury University in 2023
The student composition data from Drury University for the year 2023 provides valuable insights into the demographics and gender ratios among its student body. The university has a total of 403 new undergraduate students, with a male representation of 52.6% and female representation of 47.4%. This slight male majority reflects a growing trend in many institutions where gender ratios are becoming more balanced among new entrants.
In contrast, the continuing undergraduate students show a significant female majority, with 57.9% of the student body identifying as female, compared to 42.1% male. This shift may indicate that female students are increasingly opting for higher education pathways, a trend observed nationally as more women pursue undergraduate degrees and advanced studies.
Graduate students present a different picture, with a notable 70.9% being female. This large discrepancy emphasizes the growing number of women in graduate programs, likely influenced by increasing opportunities and societal shifts encouraging women's participation in higher education.
Additionally, the data on racial diversity reveals that among the new undergraduate cohort, the majority of students identify as white, while a small fraction represents other ethnicities. This highlights the ongoing challenges universities face in promoting a diverse student population. As institutions strive to create inclusive environments, understanding these demographics is crucial for implementing effective outreach and support strategies.
Overall, the student composition at Drury University in 2023 reflects broader trends in gender representation and the continuing need for diversity and inclusion initiatives within higher education.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Drury University
The age distribution of students at Drury University in 2023 reveals interesting trends regarding the demographic makeup of the student body. The majority of students fall within the 18-21 age range, which is typical for many universities. Specifically, the 18-19 age group comprises approximately 47.2% of the total student population, highlighting the university’s appeal to traditional-aged college students. This age group is predominantly composed of undergraduate students, with a notably higher number of females than males.
As we look at older age groups, the numbers begin to dwindle significantly. For instance, those aged 22-24 account for just 10.6% of the total, while students aged 25-29 represent only 4.5%. The participation of non-traditional students, particularly those over 30, remains minimal, with only 5.5% of the total student body. This trend may reflect broader societal norms and economic factors that often see individuals in these age brackets delaying further education or balancing work and study.
The representation of graduate students also shows a distinct pattern. The number of males in graduate programs is notably higher in the 22-24 age range, but as students age, the ratios of female graduate students increase, particularly in the 30-34 bracket. This could indicate a more considerable commitment among women to pursue advanced degrees later in life.
Overall, Drury University’s demographic data aligns with national trends in higher education, where younger students dominate university enrollment. However, the increasing presence of older students, particularly women, suggests evolving educational aspirations and opportunities in today's workforce.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
134 in 2025 · 5.7% in 2016
8 in 2025 · 3.5% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Drury University
The international student enrollment data from Drury University reveals significant trends and fluctuations over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduates has seen a general increase, peaking at 7.65% in 2019, followed by a slight decline in subsequent years. This increase in the proportion of international students indicates Drury's growing appeal as a destination for global learners, reflecting broader trends in higher education where diverse student bodies are increasingly valued.
In contrast, the enrollment of international graduate students has remained relatively stable, with percentages generally hovering between 1% and 5%. The highest percentage of international graduate students was observed in 2018 at 5.15%. This suggests that while the undergraduate programs may be attracting more international students, graduate programs at Drury face more challenges in this regard.
The fluctuations in international enrollment could be influenced by various factors, including changes in visa policies, global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and increased competition from other universities. The data indicates a notable drop in total student numbers in 2020 and 2021, likely tied to the pandemic's impact on international travel and education.
Overall, while Drury University has made strides in attracting international undergraduates, it must continue to develop strategies to enhance the appeal of its graduate programs to maintain a balanced and diverse student population. This commitment is essential not only for enriching the campus experience but also for fostering global perspectives in education.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$49,017
- Undergraduate tuition
- $36,745
- Room and board
- $12,272
- Graduate tuition
- $8,115
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 48% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 49%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$53.3M
Expenses$50.6M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Great Lakes Valley Conference
Great Lakes Valley Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 83 | 51 |
| Soccer | 50 | 36 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 39 | 25 |
| Baseball | 46 | - |
| Other Sports | - | 37 |
| Basketball | 18 | 16 |
| Wrestling | 33 | - |
| Golf | 14 | 10 |
| Tennis | 14 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 72 | 52 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 45 | 29 |
| Soccer | 34 | 34 |
| Baseball | 51 | - |
| Wrestling | 35 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 16 |
| Golf | 15 | 11 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Tennis | 14 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Other Sports | - | 15 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 82 | 70 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 42 | 31 |
| Soccer | 35 | 32 |
| Baseball | 51 | - |
| Wrestling | 32 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Tennis | 13 | 11 |
| Golf | 13 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Other Sports | - | 15 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of ArkansasFayetteville · 93.5 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Missouri University of Science and TechnologyRolla · 97.2 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of Missouri-ColumbiaColumbia · 130.1 mi
U.S. News #95
-
University of Missouri--Kansas CityKansas City · 143.8 mi
U.S. News #250
-
Hendrix CollegeConway · 153.7 mi
Liberal Arts #100
-
University of KansasLawrence · 160.7 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Harding UniversitySearcy · 161.6 mi
U.S. News #276
-
University of TulsaTulsa · 164.8 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Washington University in St LouisSt. Louis · 189.8 mi
U.S. News #16
Data insights
Here are some notable universities surrounding Drury University:
-
University of Arkansas - Ranked 178 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
University of Missouri-Columbia - With a rank of 124, this comprehensive university is well-known for its research programs and diverse academic offerings.
-
Washington University in St Louis - A prestigious institution ranked 24th, it is recognized for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
University of Kansas - This comprehensive university is ranked 151 and is known for its strong programs in various fields including engineering, business, and the arts.
-
Saint Louis University - Ranked 105, this comprehensive university combines a rich tradition of education with a commitment to community service and social justice.
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - With a rank of 124, this university offers a diverse array of programs and is known for its research initiatives.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities in close proximity to Drury University, enriching the academic landscape of the region.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Drury University
The crime rate data from Drury University over the past decade presents a mixed picture of campus safety. In 2013, the average crime rate was relatively low at about 6.43 incidents per 1,000 students. However, the figures began to fluctuate significantly, peaking in 2020 with a striking rate of 29.37 per 1,000 students. This surge may reflect broader societal trends, including increased reports of violent crime and substance abuse during the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted normal campus life and support systems.
Interestingly, the crime rate saw a sharp decline to 10.53 per 1,000 students in 2023, suggesting improvements in campus safety and possibly the implementation of effective crime prevention strategies. The fluctuations in specific crime categories such as drug arrests and alcohol-related incidents indicate that the university is actively engaging in tackling these issues, which reflects a commitment to student well-being.
It's important to compare these statistics with national trends to gain a clearer perspective. For instance, many universities have reported rising crime rates in recent years due to heightened awareness and reporting practices. Drury's data shows an annual variation that could be indicative of both changing student behaviors and institutional responses to crime.
Overall, while the 2020 figures are alarming, the recent downturn in crime rates is encouraging. Continuous monitoring and proactive measures will be critical in maintaining a safe environment for all students. For more information on how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Drury University include Bob Barker (Longtime host of The Price Is Right), Robert Cummings (Actor in Dial M for Murder and Saboteur) and Virginia E. Johnson (Sexologist of the Masters and Johnson team).
-
Bob Barker 1923–2023
Longtime host of The Price Is Right
-
Robert Cummings 1910–1990
Actor in Dial M for Murder and Saboteur
-
Virginia E. Johnson 1925–2013
Sexologist of the Masters and Johnson team
-
Jansen Panettiere 1994–2023
Actor in The Perfect Game and other films
-
Dabbs Greer 1917–2007
Character actor in film and television for over 60 years
-
Paul Carpenter Standley 1884–1963
Botanist known for work on neotropical plants
-
William Garwood 1884–1950
Silent film era actor and director
-
Aven Nelson 1859–1952
Botanist and University of Wyoming founding professor
-
George Howard Williams 1871–1963
U.S. Senator from Missouri, lawyer and judge
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.