What the source says
New reporting describes recruitment and faculty preparations for Drake’s planned 2027 data-analytics degree and AI minor in Panama.
Preparing for a first cohort
In a September 25 interview with Iowa Capital Dispatch, Drake President Marty Martin said the university had received 17 applications and hoped to recruit 50 students for the first cohort next fall. Those figures describe applications and a target, not confirmed enrollment.
The planned pathways include an accelerated program completed in Panama and a 2+2 option with the final two years in Des Moines. Drake is also identifying faculty for the program.
The Iowa connection
The program combines a data-analytics bachelor’s degree with an AI minor and contributes to Panama’s national technology strategy. Drake’s earlier announcement schedules the first cohort for August 2027. Our Drake profile links to the university’s programs and announcement.
Sources & further reading
- Brooklyn Draisey, Iowa Capital Dispatch. Drake University to contribute to Panama national AI strategy with academic programs. September 25, 2026; reviewed September 28. Recruitment figures are reported applications and a target, not enrolled students.
- Drake University Newsroom. Drake University Named as Partner in Panama’s National AI Strategy. September 3, 2026. University announcement of a program scheduled to begin in August 2027, including a pathway with two years in Des Moines; consulted September 11, 2026.
Updates & corrections
Source dates and review dates are labeled separately. Suggest a correction.