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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Drury University

Springfield, Missouri · www.drury.edu

中文

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
Springfield, Missouri
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

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
56.1%
Women
59.4%

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

Business School#439▲17

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

SAT total1130–1290Peer median 1158
ACT composite22–29
SAT Reading
570–670
600700800
SAT Math
560–620
600700800
ACT composite
22–29
253036

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)

Bachelor's26712 international (4.5%)
Master's624 international (6.5%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Architecture
36
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
26
Psychology, General
18
Biochemistry
15
Graphic Design
12
Finance, General
11
Writing, General
11
Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology
10
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
10
Accounting
9

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

Businesshas 65 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
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.-
Biologyhas 59 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$39,949
Biochemistry.-
Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology.-
Environmental Biology.-
Neuroscience.-
Architecture has 37 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Architecture.$52,851
Architectural Technology/Technician.-
Educationhas 31 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
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.-
Communication has 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Communication, General.-
Journalism.-
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication.-
Organizational Communication, General.-
Social sciencehas 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Criminology.-
Economics, General.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Psychology has 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$38,058
Visual and Performing artshas 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Graphic Design.$37,672
Game and Interactive Media Design.$37,672
Fine/Studio Arts, General.-
Art History, Criticism and Conservation.-
English has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Writing, General.-
Health professionshas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Music Therapy/Therapist.-
Physical scienceshas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Physics, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Public administrationhas 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Public Administration.-
Computer and information sciencehas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Engineeringhas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer Software Engineering.-
Homeland security has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$38,287-$47,008
Philosophy has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Philosophy and Religious Studies, General.-
Communications technologies has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects.-
History has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-
Theology has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Urban Ministry.-

Students

1,615 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 79.2%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,391)

White
989 · 71.1%
International
134 · 9.6%
Hispanic
62 · 4.5%
Unknown
58 · 4.2%
Two or more races
56 · 4.0%
Black
45 · 3.2%
Asian
29 · 2.1%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
0.2%
18–19
38.2%
20–21
43.4%
22–24
15.7%
25 and over
2.4%

Graduate students

Under 22
1.3%
22–24
24.6%
25–29
26.8%
30–34
15.2%
35 and over
32.1%

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.

Undergraduates9.6%

134 in 2025 · 5.7% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 5.7%2017: 4.7%2018: 5.2%2019: 7.7%2020: 6.6%2021: 7.1%2022: 7.2%2023: 6.8%2024: 8.0%2025: 9.6%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students3.6%

8 in 2025 · 3.5% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 3.5%2017: 4.2%2018: 5.2%2019: 2.1%2020: 2.7%2021: 2.8%2022: 2.6%2023: 5.5%2024: 5.3%2025: 3.6%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

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
Tuition and room and board over time

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

Tuition and fees
$19.1M35.9%
Gifts and private grants
$14.5M27.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$9.4M17.7%
Investment return
$7.8M14.7%
Government grants and contracts
$817K1.5%
Other
$1.7M3.1%

Expenses$50.6M

Instruction
$19.3M38.2%
Institutional support
$14.8M29.3%
Student services
$11.9M23.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$4.6M9.0%
Research
$18K0.0%

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.

All faculty
$67,869peers $68,006
Professor
$73,743peers $78,041
Associate professor
$65,786peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$69,080peers $63,827
Instructor
$52,579peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Great Lakes Valley Conference

Great Lakes Valley Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)8351
Soccer5036
Swimming and Diving (combined)3925
Baseball46-
Other Sports-37
Basketball1816
Wrestling33-
Golf1410
Tennis1410
Softball-23
Volleyball-21
2024
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)7252
Swimming and Diving (combined)4529
Soccer3434
Baseball51-
Wrestling35-
Basketball1616
Golf1511
Softball-23
Tennis148
Volleyball-19
Other Sports-15
2023
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)8270
Swimming and Diving (combined)4231
Soccer3532
Baseball51-
Wrestling32-
Basketball1615
Softball-25
Tennis1311
Golf139
Volleyball-17
Other Sports-15

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities surrounding Drury University:

  1. University of Arkansas - Ranked 178 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  2. University of Missouri-Columbia - With a rank of 124, this comprehensive university is well-known for its research programs and diverse academic offerings.

  3. Washington University in St Louis - A prestigious institution ranked 24th, it is recognized for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  4. 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.

  5. Saint Louis University - Ranked 105, this comprehensive university combines a rich tradition of education with a commitment to community service and social justice.

  6. 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.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
150
Burglary
17
Drug referrals
12
Motor vehicle theft
9
Fondling
4
Weapons referrals
4

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 24

Notable 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).

See all 24 notable alumni of Drury University →

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.