DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, has long been recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, ethical recruitment, and student success. Recently, structural changes have ushered in a new era of interdisciplinary education that provides students with unparalleled opportunities to merge their interests, develop leadership skills, and prepare for evolving career landscapes.
At the core of DePauw’s three-school model is a shared commitment to the liberal arts, woven into each school’s distinct focus:
- The Creative School – Designed for students interested in fields like music, media, and the arts, this school encourages interdisciplinary exploration, ensuring students can combine creative pursuits with practical skills in business, leadership, and technology.
- The School of Business and Leadership – Expanding upon DePauw’s longstanding tradition of producing successful business professionals, this school focuses on leadership development, equipping graduates with the skills needed to excel and advance quickly in their careers.
- The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences – Serving as the academic backbone of DePauw, this school provides a well-rounded education with strong programs in psychology, pre-med, kinesiology, and more, ensuring students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills applicable across industries.
A Campus Culture of Leadership and Innovation
DePauw’s unique campus environment fosters an entrepreneurial and leadership-driven mindset among students. According to Ashley Hardy, Assistant Vice President for Admissions, DePauw attracts students who are natural leaders—individuals who take initiative, start clubs, and engage in their communities before even stepping foot on campus.
This culture of ambition delivers remarkable results: DePauw graduates are known for quickly advancing in their careers and rank in the top 7% nationally for lifetime career earnings, a testament to the university’s powerful combination of liberal arts rigor, professional preparation, and hands-on experiences. Internships are a key component of the DePauw experience, with 84% of students completing at least one. Just 45 minutes from Indianapolis—a booming hub for business, tech, and healthcare—DePauw students gain unparalleled access to internships, networking, and personalized mentorship in a variety of industries.
An Education Built for the Future
One of the most compelling aspects of DePauw’s model is its emphasis on preparing students for careers that don’t yet exist. In a rapidly changing world shaped by technology, AI, and innovation, DePauw ensures its students graduate with adaptable, interdisciplinary skills. Whether it’s a music major learning business fundamentals to manage a future career as an artist or a pre-med student engaging in leadership training, DePauw students aren’t confined to one path—they’re empowered to explore and excel across disciplines.
Lifelong Connections: A Passionate Alumni Network
Beyond academics, DePauw boasts an exceptionally engaged alumni network. Hardy notes that DePauw alumni frequently connect with students—offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and career guidance. “Even before students arrive on campus, alumni are reaching out, eager to support them,” she shared. From career placement to global connections, DePauw’s alumni community ensures students continue to benefit from their DePauw experience long after graduation.
Why DePauw?
For students looking for a dynamic, student-centered experience that blends the rigor of the liberal arts with the practical application of business and creativity, DePauw University offers a future-focused education that prepares graduates for success in an evolving world.
To learn more about DePauw’s innovative three-school model and its impact on student outcomes, visit DePauw’s website or listen to the full episode of The Leading Colleges Podcast.