About Drew University
Drew University carved its reputation as a creative powerhouse where film legend Martin Scorsese and comedian Chris Gethard honed their craft. The 1,510-student liberal arts college sits on a wooded campus in suburban New Jersey, known for strong theater and arts programs. With a 72.66% acceptance rate and 1230 average SAT score, Drew attracts students seeking intimate creative communities.
The sticker price hits $65,035, but most families pay far less. Students from families earning under $30,000 pay just $13,177 after aid, while those from higher-income households average $34,219. Graduates earn a median $63,646 ten years out, easily covering the typical $25,288 debt load with monthly payments around $268. The math works for most students.
Drew's 11:1 student-faculty ratio means professors actually know your name. With 73.05% graduating in four years and 95.1% finding employment, the school delivers on its promises. The 469 student-athletes compete across 25 Division III sports as Rangers, though the real action happens in the theaters and studios. Women outnumber men 56% to 44%, creating a collaborative atmosphere where creativity thrives over competition.
The sticker price hits $65,035, but most families pay far less. Students from families earning under $30,000 pay just $13,177 after aid, while those from higher-income households average $34,219. Graduates earn a median $63,646 ten years out, easily covering the typical $25,288 debt load with monthly payments around $268. The math works for most students.
Drew's 11:1 student-faculty ratio means professors actually know your name. With 73.05% graduating in four years and 95.1% finding employment, the school delivers on its promises. The 469 student-athletes compete across 25 Division III sports as Rangers, though the real action happens in the theaters and studios. Women outnumber men 56% to 44%, creating a collaborative atmosphere where creativity thrives over competition.
Academics & Faculty
Drew University operates as a small liberal arts college where the 11:1 student-faculty ratio creates an intimate academic environment. The school built its reputation on strong theater and arts programs, attracting students who want hands-on creative training. With 73% of students graduating in four years, the close faculty mentorship clearly works. Drew's liberal arts approach means students explore diverse subjects before choosing a major, developing critical thinking skills across disciplines. The college particularly excels in dramatic arts, having produced notable alumni like filmmaker Martin Scorsese. Small class sizes allow professors to know students personally, creating opportunities for independent research and mentored projects that larger universities cannot match.
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 11:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 100.0%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 73.1%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 72.4%
- Retention Rate
- 84.5%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $63,646
- Carnegie Classification
- Liberal Arts College
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | Doctoral | $60,161 |
| Economics. | Bachelor | $55,512 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Master | $52,107 |
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Doctoral | $52,107 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $47,260 |
| Political Science and Government. | Bachelor | $43,240 |
| Natural Resources Conservation and Research. | Bachelor | $39,369 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Bachelor | $35,954 |
| Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics. | Bachelor | $35,416 |
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Master | $32,563 |
Campus Life
Drew's 186-acre campus sits in Madison, New Jersey, just 35 miles from Manhattan. The wooded campus features a mix of historic buildings and modern facilities, with housing capacity for 1,554 students serving an enrollment of 1,510. Nearly all students live on campus, creating a tight-knit residential community. You'll need a winter coat for New Jersey's cold seasons, but the changing leaves create a picturesque fall setting that's perfect for the school's artsy vibe.
The 11:1 student-faculty ratio means you'll know your professors personally. Weekends often center around theater productions, given Drew's reputation for strong performing arts programs. Students frequently take the train into New York City for internships, shows, or weekend adventures. The campus culture embraces creativity and intellectual curiosity, with 25 varsity sports teams competing in NCAA Division III. With 469 total athletes among 1,510 students, about one-third participate in organized athletics. The Methodist heritage creates a welcoming atmosphere without overwhelming religious requirements.
The 11:1 student-faculty ratio means you'll know your professors personally. Weekends often center around theater productions, given Drew's reputation for strong performing arts programs. Students frequently take the train into New York City for internships, shows, or weekend adventures. The campus culture embraces creativity and intellectual curiosity, with 25 varsity sports teams competing in NCAA Division III. With 469 total athletes among 1,510 students, about one-third participate in organized athletics. The Methodist heritage creates a welcoming atmosphere without overwhelming religious requirements.
- Setting
- Suburb-Large
- Housing Capacity
- 1,554 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1867
Campus Safety (2023)
27 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stalking | 7 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| Fondling | 4 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Dating Violence | 3 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Aggravated Assault | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Rape | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 19°–37°F
- July Avg
- 63°–85°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 50.4"
- Annual Snowfall
- 0.0"
Student Demographics
Drew attracts students who value close faculty relationships, with an 11:1 student-faculty ratio creating intimate classroom discussions. The student body draws primarily from New Jersey and nearby states, reflecting the university's strong regional reputation for liberal arts education. Women comprise 56% of students, likely drawn to Drew's well-known theater and arts programs where creative expression flourishes. About 27% receive Pell Grants, showing the Methodist-affiliated university serves students across economic backgrounds. The diverse mix includes students seeking small-college community while staying close to New York City's cultural opportunities.
- Men
- 44.3%
- Women
- 55.7%
- White
- 59.1%
- Black
- 10.3%
- Hispanic
- 5.0%
- Asian
- 3.8%
- In-State Students
- 67.4%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 27.2%
Location
Drew University sits in Madison, New Jersey, about 30 miles west of New York City. The 186-acre wooded campus provides a classic college setting in Morris County's suburban landscape. Madison maintains the feel of a quintessential college town with tree-lined streets and historic architecture. The location offers easy access to Manhattan via NJ Transit, making internships and cultural opportunities readily available. With 67% of students coming from in-state, many appreciate staying close to home while experiencing a residential campus atmosphere. The surrounding area features rolling hills and preserved green spaces typical of northern New Jersey's more affluent suburbs. Students considering colleges in New Jersey may also compare Drew University with similar schools in the region.
- Address
- Madison, New Jersey 07940
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $63,646
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $57,555
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $36,200
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 69.7%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $268/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $25,288
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Drew University?
Drew University accepts 72.66% of applicants, making it moderately selective for a private liberal arts college. Students typically need SAT scores around 1230 or ACT scores around 27 to be competitive.
How much does Drew University cost after financial aid?
The average net price at Drew University is $25,644 after aid, lower than the $65,035 sticker price. Students from families earning under $30,000 pay an average of just $13,177 per year.
What is the student-faculty ratio at Drew University?
Drew University maintains an 11:1 student-faculty ratio with just 1,510 total students. This small liberal arts environment allows for close mentorship and personalized attention in classes.
What do Drew University graduates earn after college?
Drew University graduates earn a median salary of $63,646 ten years after graduation. The school has a 95.1% employment rate and is known for producing successful alumni like filmmaker Martin Scorsese.
Where is Drew University located?
Drew University sits on a wooded campus in Madison, New Jersey, a large suburban setting. About 67.35% of students come from in-state, drawn to the peaceful campus just 30 miles from New York City.
Does Drew University have strong arts programs?
Drew University is particularly known for its theater and arts programs, which have produced notable alumni like director Martin Scorsese. The school offers 25 varsity sports and maintains its United Methodist heritage while fostering creative expression.
