Finance and Financial Management Services at Drake University

Drake University's finance program stands out for its strong earnings trajectory rather than its starting salary. While first-year graduates earn $62,049—above the national median but trailing the University of Iowa by about $2,000—by year four they're making $81,311, representing 31% growth that outpaces many Iowa competitors. Among Iowa's dozen finance programs, Drake ranks squarely in the middle for starting pay but appears positioned for stronger mid-career outcomes.

The debt picture reinforces the value proposition: at $25,000, graduates carry slightly more than the state median, but with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.40, they're earning enough in their first year to make monthly payments manageable. This program ranks in the 80th percentile nationally for earnings while keeping debt below the national median—a combination that matters more than any single metric.

The real question is whether you're willing to bet on growth over immediate returns. Drake's finance graduates don't command top dollar right out of the gate like Iowa grads, but their four-year earnings suggest they're landing at firms or in roles with meaningful advancement potential. For families comfortable with that trajectory and a moderate debt load, this represents solid value from a private university with strong Des Moines business connections.