Drew University
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#85
Down 1 from 2026
Acceptance rate
67.8%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$47,100
$64,740 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,626
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
69.7%
4-year; 6-year rate 73.7%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Drew University, located in Madison, New Jersey, is a private liberal arts university known for its strong emphasis on personalized education and close-knit community. Founded in 1867, the university has a rich history and is often celebrated for its picturesque campus, which features beautiful Gothic architecture and expansive green spaces. One of the university's distinguishing characteristics is its commitment to small class sizes, which fosters meaningful interactions between students and faculty. The student-to-faculty ratio is approximately 9:1, allowing for an engaging academic environment where students can thrive and receive personalized attention.
Drew University is also recognized for its diverse range of programs and its commitment to the liberal arts tradition. The university offers undergraduate programs in various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, alongside several graduate programs. With a strong focus on interdisciplinary studies, students are encouraged to explore different fields and engage in innovative research. The university's campus culture is vibrant, filled with numerous student organizations and extracurricular activities that promote leadership, creativity, and community service. Drew University also boasts a strong athletic program, with various sports teams competing in the NCAA Division III. The university's commitment to preparing students for successful careers is evident through its extensive alumni network and career services, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to enter the workforce.
Commentary on Key Educational Metrics at Drew University
Drew University has shown notable trends in several important educational metrics over the years, particularly in tuition costs, student retention rates, and graduation rates.
Firstly, the tuition fees have steadily increased for both undergraduate and graduate programs, reaching approximately $44,174 for in-state undergraduate students in 2023, compared to $43,918 in 2014. This represents an increase of around 2.94% over the nine-year span, highlighting the ongoing trend of rising education costs which poses a challenge for many prospective students and their families.
In terms of student retention, Drew University has maintained a commendable retention rate, which rose significantly from about 74.7% in 2013 to approximately 87.7% in 2023. This upward trend indicates that students are becoming increasingly satisfied with their educational experience, which is crucial for universities aiming to foster a supportive learning environment.
Graduation rates have also displayed some fluctuations, with the on-time graduation rate reaching 65.7% in 2022, a notable recovery from a low of 56.7% in 2019. This recovery suggests improvements in student support services and academic resources, contributing positively to student outcomes.
Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has remained relatively stable over the years, with female undergraduates consistently comprising over 57% of the student body. This trend reflects broader societal changes in higher education demographics, where female enrollment has generally surpassed that of males.
Overall, Drew University illustrates a complex landscape of higher education trends, marked by rising tuition costs, strong retention rates, fluctuating graduation rates, and stable gender demographics. These factors are vital for prospective students and policymakers alike as they navigate the evolving challenges in higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- New York, about 25 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), about 15 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- United Methodist
- President
- Hilary Link (President)
- Phone
- 9734083000
- City
- Madison, New Jersey
- Address
- 36 Madison Ave, Madison, NJ 07940
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 68.0%, women 73.5%.
Best #83, lowest #93, latest #85 over the last ten years.
Data insights
Analysis of Drew University's Admission Trends
Drew University has shown a fluctuating trend in its admission statistics over the years. The acceptance rates for both males and females indicate a gradual increase in selectivity from 2009 to 2023. In 2009, the acceptance rates for males and females stood at approximately 65.8% and 68.7%, respectively, while by 2023, these rates had dropped to around 70.5% for males and 74.1% for females. This suggests a tightening of admission standards, reflecting a broader trend observed in many institutions as they aim to enhance their academic profiles.
The enrollment numbers have varied, with the highest recorded enrollment being 506 students in 2010, and the lowest at 302 in 2015. This inconsistency may reflect various factors including changes in application numbers, institutional capacity, and possibly external factors such as economic conditions or shifts in student preferences influenced by the ongoing pandemic. For instance, the decline in enrollment during the mid-2010s may correlate with broader societal trends impacting student decisions, including financial considerations and the evolving landscape of higher education.
Moreover, the number of students deferred also fluctuated significantly, peaking at 3947 in 2011. This could indicate a strategic approach by the university to manage its applicant pool, allowing for a more thoughtful selection process. In recent years, the percentage of students denied admission has remained relatively high, emphasizing the competitive nature of Drew University.
Overall, the data suggests that Drew University is navigating the complexities of higher education admissions with a focus on maintaining a diverse and academically sound student body, which is increasingly critical in a competitive educational landscape.
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
Social Sciences and Humanities1 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 · 23% submitted SAT, 2% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Drew University's Admission Data Trends
The admission data from Drew University over the years presents a compelling narrative regarding the academic profiles of accepted students. Notably, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has decreased from 84% in 2007 to just 32% in 2023, indicating a significant trend toward more students opting not to submit standardized test scores. This shift reflects a broader movement in higher education, where many institutions are adopting test-optional policies in response to ongoing debates about the fairness and accessibility of standardized testing.
In terms of academic performance, the range of SAT reading scores has shown some fluctuation. While the 25th percentile score started at 530 in 2007, it decreased to 580 by 2023, with the 75th percentile score rising from 650 to 690 during the same period. This suggests that while the lower end of the score range has tightened, the top-performing students are achieving higher scores, indicating a more competitive applicant pool.
The data also reveals a similar pattern with ACT scores, further emphasizing the competitive nature of admissions. The number of students submitting ACT scores remains relatively stable, but the overall trends indicate that students are increasingly performing at higher academic levels, particularly at the top end.
Overall, Drew University's admission statistics illustrate a shift in the landscape of college admissions, with an increasing number of institutions reevaluating the role of standardized testing in their processes. The changing demographics of applicants and their accomplishments will likely continue to shape the university's admission strategies in the future.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
5,024 applicants in 2025, 67.8% admitted
3,408 admitted 1,616 not admitted Yield 10.7%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Divinity/Ministry · Master's43 (67% international)
- Theology/Theological Studies · Doctoral29 (52% international)
- Econometrics and Quantitative Economics · Master's23 (61% international)
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other · Doctoral22 (5% international)
- Secondary Education and Teaching · Master's11 (0% international)
- Medical/Health Humanities · Doctoral10 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Statistics at Drew University
The graduation statistics from Drew University for 2023 reveal several noteworthy trends across various fields of study. Business Administration remains the most popular major, with 52 graduates earning their bachelor's degree, which reflects the ongoing demand for business professionals in today's economy. This aligns with national trends indicating that business-related degrees continue to attract a significant number of students, as they often lead to lucrative job opportunities.
Psychology and Biology also show a strong presence, with 34 and 30 graduates, respectively. The interest in psychology can be attributed to a growing awareness of mental health issues, making this field increasingly relevant. Additionally, the biological sciences remain a staple for students interested in health-related careers, especially given the current emphasis on healthcare and life sciences.
Interestingly, the data shows a significant number of international students among graduates, particularly in Computer Science and Journalism. With 9 international graduates in Computer Science and 2 in Journalism, this indicates Drew University's attractiveness to global talent in these rapidly evolving fields. The increasing importance of technology and digital media in the job market likely contributes to this trend.
On the other hand, certain disciplines, such as Theology and the Arts, while offering fewer total graduates, still maintain a niche appeal. The presence of 9 graduates in Theology demonstrates that there is still a dedicated pursuit of spiritual and religious studies, despite the broader trend toward more vocationally oriented degrees.
Overall, these graduation statistics underscore the dynamic nature of higher education, reflecting both student interests and market demands, while also highlighting the importance of diversity within academic programs. As the world continues to change, so too will the fields of study that students choose to pursue.
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 | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theology/Theological Studies. | $62,892-$67,733 | |||
| Divinity/Ministry. | $62,892-$67,733 | |||
| Women's Ministry. | - | |||
| Theology and Religious Vocations, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | |||
| Economics, General. | - | |||
| Econometrics and Quantitative Economics. | - | |||
| International Relations and Affairs. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $44,020 | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $44,615 | |||
| Accounting. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,839 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computational Science. | - | |||
| Data Science, General. | - | |||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $38,229 | |||
| Biochemistry. | - | |||
| Neuroscience. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | $22,299 | |||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | |||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | - | |||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication and Media Studies, Other. | $41,985 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $57,963 | |||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $57,963 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - | |||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $23,512 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Health Education and Promotion. | - | |||
| Medical/Health Humanities. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| German Language and Literature. | - | |||
| French Language and Literature. | $37,094 | |||
| Italian Language and Literature. | $37,094 | |||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | $37,094 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - | |||
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - | |||
| Religion/Religious Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - | |||
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Physics/Applied Physics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Women's Studies. | - |
Students
2,232 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 46:54 · Freshman retention 88.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,105
- First-year undergraduates 366
- Graduate students 606
- Transfers and others 155
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,626)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Drew University Student Demographics for 2023
In 2023, Drew University showcases a diverse student body, with a total of 2,092 students across various categories. Among these, undergraduate freshmen constitute 309 individuals, while undergraduate juniors are represented by 1,045 students. The transfer student population is relatively small, with only 65 students, whereas graduate students account for 579 individuals.
The gender distribution reveals an interesting trend. Freshmen and juniors have a higher percentage of female students, with 59.2% and 58.8% respectively, indicating a slightly more favorable environment for female students at the undergraduate level. Conversely, transfer students have a higher male representation at 55.4%. Graduate students present a balanced gender ratio, with females making up 51.8% of the population.
Looking at racial demographics, the data indicates that White students form a significant portion of the student body across all categories. However, the specific breakdown within each subgroup is not fully disclosed, suggesting that diversity efforts may still be ongoing at the university. The presence of international students, categorized under other demographics, is an important aspect of the campus culture, reflecting the global nature of higher education today.
Overall, Drew University appears to be a welcoming institution for students of various backgrounds and genders, aligning with broader trends in higher education that emphasize inclusivity and representation. As universities continue to evolve, maintaining and enhancing diversity will be crucial in fostering an enriching academic environment.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Drew University in 2023
The age distribution of students at Drew University reveals intriguing insights into the demographics of the student body. A significant portion, 45% of the undergraduate males and 45% of the undergraduate females, fall within the 18-21 age range, indicating a vibrant young population predominantly engaged in their first years of college. This trend aligns with national statistics showing that traditional college students, typically aged 18-22, make up a substantial portion of university enrollments across the United States.
As we delve into the older age brackets, it is noteworthy that the representation of students aged 25-29 and 30-34 is relatively modest. For instance, only 5% of the total male students are aged 30-34, while female students in the same age group comprise about 38%. This suggests that while Drew University attracts a younger demographic, there remains an opportunity for growth in the enrollment of adult learners or non-traditional students.
The presence of mature students is more pronounced in the 40-49 age range, where males and females both contribute to a more diverse academic environment. This diversity is essential for fostering a rich learning atmosphere, as older students often bring varied life experiences and perspectives to the classroom.
Overall, the data not only highlights an active young student body but also points to the potential for expanding outreach to older age groups, which could enhance the overall educational experience at Drew University. The increasing importance of lifelong learning in today's fast-paced world makes this an opportune moment for universities to consider strategies that cater to a broader age spectrum.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
241 in 2025 · 9.9% in 2016
187 in 2025 · 13.3% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Drew University
The data on international student enrollment at Drew University reveals significant trends over the years. Starting from 2004, the percentage of international undergraduates has seen a steady increase, peaking at 18.05% in 2020. This upward trajectory reflects a growing recognition of the value that international diversity brings to the academic environment. The increase in the number of international undergraduates from just 13 in 2004 to 309 in 2020 highlights the institution's commitment to attracting a global student body.
However, the following years show a slight decline in enrollment numbers, with 220 international undergraduates recorded in 2023. This drop may be attributed to various factors, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on international travel and education, as well as increasing competition from other universities globally.
In contrast, the graduate student enrollment figures present a more positive picture. The percentage of international graduate students has risen significantly, reaching 28.32% in 2023, up from 15.76% in 2004. This indicates that Drew University is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for graduate studies, possibly due to specific programs or resources appealing to international candidates.
Overall, while the undergraduate numbers may have fluctuated, the growth in graduate international enrollment suggests that Drew University is successfully enhancing its reputation as a global academic hub, making it essential to continue fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all students.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$64,740
- Undergraduate tuition
- $47,100
- Room and board
- $17,640
- Graduate tuition
- $27,010
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 2% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 39%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$80.2M
Expenses$93.5M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Landmark Conference
Landmark Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 44 | 32 |
| Lacrosse | 36 | 18 |
| Fencing | 25 | 20 |
| Baseball | 44 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 21 | 20 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 21 | 20 |
| Basketball | 24 | 15 |
| Volleyball | 15 | 17 |
| Swimming | 14 | 13 |
| Tennis | 14 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Golf | 12 | 9 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 10 |
| Field Hockey | - | 16 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 40 | 29 |
| Lacrosse | 42 | 21 |
| Fencing | 31 | 19 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 22 | 23 |
| Baseball | 43 | - |
| Basketball | 21 | 16 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 24 | 12 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 18 | 14 |
| Volleyball | 14 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 26 |
| Tennis | 15 | 10 |
| Golf | 15 | 7 |
| Field Hockey | - | 21 |
| Cross Country | 8 | 6 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 38 | 25 |
| Fencing | 37 | 20 |
| Lacrosse | 38 | 19 |
| Basketball | 24 | 16 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 16 | 23 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Volleyball | 11 | 14 |
| Tennis | 12 | 11 |
| Golf | 13 | 7 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Field Hockey | - | 17 |
| Cross Country | 6 | 6 |
| Equestrian | - | 3 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick · 18.2 mi
U.S. News #44
-
Stevens Institute of TechnologyHoboken · 20.9 mi
U.S. News #59
-
New York UniversityNew York · 22.5 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Barnard CollegeNew York · 24.4 mi
Liberal Arts #19
-
Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York · 24.4 mi
U.S. News #12
-
Princeton UniversityPrinceton · 31.1 mi
U.S. News #2
-
Lafayette CollegeEaston · 41.3 mi
Liberal Arts #30
-
The United States Military Academy at West PointWest Point · 49.7 mi
Liberal Arts #9
-
Lehigh UniversityBethlehem · 51.2 mi
U.S. News #44
Data insights
Here are some notable universities surrounding Drew University:
-
Princeton University - Ranked 1 in the 2024 US News, Princeton is an Ivy League institution known for its rigorous academics and distinguished faculty.
-
Columbia University in the City of New York - With a rank of 12, Columbia is another Ivy League university offering a wide array of programs and a vibrant urban campus.
-
Barnard College - Ranked 11, Barnard is a prestigious women's liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University, known for its strong emphasis on empowering women in education.
-
New York University - NYU is ranked 35 and is recognized for its diverse programs and global outlook, situated in the heart of New York City.
-
Rutgers University-New Brunswick - As the flagship campus of Rutgers, ranked 40, it offers a comprehensive education with a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Stevens Institute of Technology - Ranked 76, Stevens is renowned for its engineering, technology, and business programs, located in Hoboken, New Jersey.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges 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 Drew University
The crime data from Drew University over the past decade reveals significant fluctuations in the average crime rate per 1,000 students. Notably, the years 2013 and 2017 recorded the highest rates, with 44.54 and 56.46 respectively. These spikes may indicate periods of heightened criminal activity or perhaps increased reporting and awareness of incidents on campus. Conversely, the years 2020 and 2021 show a remarkable decrease in crime rates, plummeting to 27.25 and 9.42 respectively. This decline could be attributed to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to reduced campus populations and less social activity, resulting in fewer opportunities for crime.
Further examination of the data indicates that arrests related to drug offenses and alcohol-related incidents were present throughout the years, with notable occurrences in 2017. However, the substantial drop in the overall crime rate in 2021 raises questions about the effectiveness of campus safety measures and the changing dynamics of student life during the pandemic.
As this data reflects only reported incidents, it is crucial to consider that underreporting may skew the perception of safety on campus. Additionally, the ongoing societal issues surrounding crime and safety in educational institutions warrant continuous monitoring. Overall, while Drew University has seen fluctuations in crime rates, proactive measures and community engagement are essential to maintaining a safe campus environment. For further understanding of crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Drew University include James Van Der Beek (Actor, star of Dawson's Creek), Aileen Quinn (Actress who starred in the 1982 film Annie) and Peter Deunov (Bulgarian philosopher and spiritual teacher).
-
James Van Der Beek 1977–2026
Actor, star of Dawson's Creek
-
Aileen Quinn 1971–
Actress who starred in the 1982 film Annie
-
Peter Deunov 1864–1944
Bulgarian philosopher and spiritual teacher
-
Robert M. Price 1954–
New Testament scholar and Christ myth theory advocate
-
Soon-Yi Previn 1970–
Wife of Woody Allen
-
Deolinda Rodríguez de Almeida 1939–1968
Angolan revolutionary, writer and poet
-
Albert Báez 1912–2007
Physicist, X-ray microscope pioneer, father of Joan Baez
-
Henry Appenzeller 1858–1902
American Methodist missionary
-
William H. Gray 1941–2013
Former congressman and House Majority Whip
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.