Drew University is a private liberal arts university in Madison, New Jersey. Founded in 1867, Drew has a total enrollment of around 2,000 students across three schools: the College of Liberal Arts, the Theological School, and the Caspersen School of Graduate Studies.
The scenic 186-acre campus is just 29 miles west of New York City, offering students easy access to internships, cultural opportunities, and more in the big city. The university prides itself on small class sizes, with a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio and an average class size of 15 students.
Drew comprises a diverse student body, with students from 45 states and 50 countries. Popular majors include business, biology, psychology, and English. The university has over 80 student clubs and organizations, 17 NCAA Division III athletic teams, and many performing arts groups and events.
Academics at Drew University
Drew University takes a liberal arts approach to education, requiring students to take many courses in the humanities, social sciences, and sciences. There are over 30 majors across three colleges.
The College of Liberal Arts is home to most majors, with notable programs including English, theater, chemistry, economics, and more. The Caspersen School of Graduate Studies offers Master’s programs in medical humanities and business administration.
The Theological School trains students for Methodist ministry, with Master’s programs available too. Signature academic programs at Drew include an Honors Program, purpose-driven education, and research opportunities.
Popular majors at Drew include:
- Biology
- Business
- Psychology
- English
- History
The most popular Master’s programs are:
- Master of Arts in Medical Humanities
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Arts in Teaching
- Master of Fine Arts in Poetry
- Master of Arts in Religious Studies
Drew requires students to complete a senior capstone project to graduate. Its purpose-driven education focuses on experiential learning, internships, and research opportunities.
Student Life at Drew University
With a small but vibrant student body of around 2,000 students, there are plenty of opportunities for students to get involved at Drew. The university has over 80 active student organizations covering academics, culture, advocacy, performing arts, politics, media, and more.
Famous clubs include the Black Student Union, PRIDE Alliance, Habitat for Humanity, and Global Medical Brigades. There are also 17 NCAA Division III sports teams students can join or cheer on, like soccer, basketball, lacrosse, and swimming.
Drew has lots of performing arts groups as well, including theater, dance, acapella singing, and improv comedy troupes. The university organizes art exhibitions, plays, musical performances, lectures, and other cultural events.
Student housing options include dorms, townhouses, and apartments. Around 64% of undergraduates live on campus. Popular hangouts include the student center, coffee shops, and The Commons dining hall. The campus also has a gym, pool, and tennis courts for student use.
Athletics and Activities at Drew University
Drew University competes in NCAA Division III athletics and the Landmark Conference. Drew has 17 varsity sports teams called the Rangers, including:
- Baseball
- Men’s and Women’s Basketball
- Men’s and Women’s Cross Country
- Field Hockey
- Football
- Men’s Golf
- Men’s and Women’s Lacrosse
- Men’s and Women’s Soccer
- Softball
- Men’s and Women’s Swimming
- Men’s and Women’s Tennis
- Women’s Volleyball
Club sports like ultimate frisbee are also popular at Drew. Fitness facilities on campus include the Simon Forum gym, an indoor pool, tennis courts, and more. Intramural sports leagues allow students to compete against their peers in sports like basketball, soccer, and flag football.
In addition to athletics, Drew has over 80 student clubs and organizations related to academics, arts, culture, advocacy, media, and more. There are also Greek life organizations with fraternities and sororities. Popular events include Homecoming Weekend, Spring Fling, and the annual Orchids Ball.
Notable Alumni of Drew University
Drew University has over 15,000 alumni worldwide, impacting various fields. Notable Drew alums include:
- Robert McKinney: Inventor of the first web browser
- Peter King: Sports reporter and Football Night in America host
- Maryann Erigha: Hollywood actress
- Chris Gethard: Comedian and talk show host
- Tommy James: 1960s rock star of “Crimson and Clover”
- Abel Miracle: Grammy-nominated record producer
- Tom Lewis: Professional golfer with over 20 tour wins
- Richard Haines: Film director and screenwriter
- Jessica Springsteen: Equestrian show jumper and Bruce Springsteen’s daughter
Other notable alums include CEOs, scientists, artists, scholars, doctors, diplomats, journalists, and more. Drew University’s alumni network is 59,000 substantial, offering students great networking and mentorship opportunities.
FAQs About Drew University
What is the acceptance rate at Drew University?
The acceptance rate at Drew is around 60%. Of the students accepted, around 30% chose to enroll.
How much does it cost to attend Drew?
For the 2022-2023 school year, tuition and fees at Drew were $48,336. Room and board costs around $14,000. Over 90% of Drew students receive some form of financial aid.
What test scores are needed to get into Drew?
Drew is test-optional, meaning SAT or ACT scores are not required. For students who submit scores, the middle 50% SAT range is 1140–1310. The middle ACT range is 24–30. Drew also considers GPA, essays, recommendations, and more.
What are the academics like at Drew?
Drew takes a liberal arts approach and requires a breadth of courses across disciplines. Class sizes are small, with a 10:1 student-faculty ratio. Signature programs include honors, purpose-driven education, and undergraduate research.
What athletic programs does Drew offer?
Drew competes in NCAA Division III sports. They have 17 varsity teams, including baseball, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, tennis, and more. There are also club and intramural sports on campus.
What type of student housing is offered at Drew?
Drew has residence halls, townhouses, and apartments for students. Around 64% of undergraduates live on campus. Student housing includes single, double, and triple rooms along with suite-style units.
What student activities are available at Drew?
With over 80 clubs, Greek life, arts groups, and DIII athletics, there are many ways for students to get involved. Popular activities include student government, cultural organizations, performing arts, volunteer work, and more.
Does Drew offer any study abroad opportunities?
Yes, Drew encourages students to study abroad! They partner with schools worldwide for semester and summer programs. Popular destinations include London, Spain, China, Ireland, Australia, and more.
