Tour Tuesday: Drexel University
Co-Op Culture, Career Outcomes, and Learning by Doing
Overview
Drexel University is built differently, and that’s exactly the point. Known as a “global leader in experiential education,” Drexel has designed its entire academic model around getting students into the real world early and often. With over 13,000 undergraduates, a strong research foundation, and one of the most robust co-op programs in the country, Drexel is all about turning classroom knowledge into career-ready experience. If you’re a student who learns best by doing, this is a place that truly delivers.
Quick Look:
Private research university in Philadelphia, PA
13,000+ undergraduate students
#2 in the U.S. for internships and co-ops
9:1 student-to-faculty ratio
Median class size of 19
100+ majors across multiple colleges
R1 research institution
96% career placement rate
Average starting salary ~$78,000
Location
Drexel sits in the heart of Philadelphia, right in University City. It’s incredibly well-connected - arguably one of the most accessible campuses you’ll find.
Location Highlights:
Located in Philadelphia’s University City neighborhood
Right next to the major train station with access to airport, regional rail, and metro
Easy access to downtown Philly and surrounding cities
Strong connection to employers, hospitals, and industries nearby
Admissions Information
Drexel offers a flexible admissions process with multiple entry points and strong incentives for applying early.
Admissions Details:
Test-optional admissions
Early Decision (ED), Early Action (EA), and Regular Decision options
Merit scholarships automatically considered
ED and EA applicants often considered for $20,000+ in merit aid
Early applicants may receive priority for housing and course registration
Winter entry option available (deadline around October 1)
Academic / Major Information
Academics at Drexel revolve around one central idea: experiential learning. This isn’t just a buzzword - it’s the foundation of the entire university.
Academic Highlights:
100+ majors across colleges including engineering, business, computing, design, and health sciences
Dedicated College of Entrepreneurship
An exploratory major available for first-year students
Direct pathways to med school and law school
Professors often bring both academic and real-world experience
STAR program: funded summer research opportunities (including housing)
Honors College offers custom-designed majors and additional research/fellowship access
Interdisciplinary learning examples: fashion shows involving design, marketing, business, and tech students collaborating
The Co-Op Experience (The Drexel Difference)
If there’s one thing that defines Drexel, it’s the co-op program. This is not your typical internship - it’s a fully immersive, career-defining experience.
Co-Op Highlights:
Alternate 6 months of classes with 6 months of full-time work
Up to 1.5 years of work experience before graduation
Available to all majors
About 80% of co-ops are paid (~$22,000 average per co-op)
~50% of students receive job offers from co-op employers
Treated as full-time employees, not interns
Co-op abroad opportunities available
Drexel-managed database connects 95%+ of students to opportunities
Steinbright Career Development Center provides resume help, advising, and reflection support
Opportunity to explore career paths and even pivot majors based on experience
Housing and Student Life
Student life at Drexel is active, career-focused, and full of unique experiences that reflect its hands-on culture.
Housing & Campus Life Highlights:
Two-year on-campus housing requirement (unless within 10 miles)
Study abroad opportunities on every continent except Antarctica
Unique experiences like “Disaster Day” for nursing students (simulation-based training before clinicals)
Strong student satisfaction and career confidence
Graduation held at Citizens Bank Park (home of the Phillies)
Athletics
Drexel athletics bring Division I competition and school spirit to campus, with opportunities for both athletes and fans to engage.
Athletics Overview:
NCAA Division I athletics (CAA Conference)
Strong programs, including men’s rowing
Wide range of varsity and club sports
Competitive but balanced environment for student-athletes
Cost and Scholarships
Drexel is a private university, but its strong co-op program and financial aid structure help offset costs significantly.
Cost & Aid Details:
Tuition: ~$60,000/year
Fees: ~$2,500/year
Room & board: ~$18,000/year
FAFSA and CSS Profile required
Average financial aid package: ~$38,000
Average net price: ~$28,000 for first-year students
Paid co-op experiences can help offset cost significantly over time
Fun Facts / Traditions
Drexel has a personality that reflects its hands-on, slightly quirky, and very student-driven culture.
Campus Culture & Traditions:
“Waterboy” statue in the main building - rub his toe for good luck (it’s now gold!)
Arts building intentionally designed to expose infrastructure for learning
Hydroponic “bio wall” inside academic buildings
Home to Team USA squash training facility
Students gain real-world experiences like working Super Bowl events during co-ops
Final Thoughts: Who Would Thrive at Drexel?
Drexel is a perfect fit for students who are career-driven, hands-on learners, and excited by the idea of building real experience before graduation. This is not a “sit in lecture and figure it out later” kind of place, it’s a “start doing now” kind of school.
Ideal Student Profile:
Students who want strong career outcomes and early work experience
Hands-on learners who prefer applied learning over theory
Those interested in co-ops, internships, and real-world exposure
Students open to a structured academic schedule with work rotations
Individuals who want to graduate with experience, not just a degree
Students excited by city life and industry connections
