Spending a spring morning in March at Drexel University in West Philadelphia was a wonderful surprise.
A Unique Co-Op Model That Sets Drexel Apart
All of Drexel’s academic programs include co-op experiences built in. Current students attend classes for approximately 10 weeks and then spend their next six weeks working in their chosen career field each semester.
Co-op programs at Drexel provide both domestic and international full-time placements, where students have the opportunity to apply their classroom learning and where the faculty all have industry connections.
This model of education leads to 80% of graduates receiving employment offers before they even put on their cap and gown. The other 20% are headed to graduate school.
Academics, Research & Flexibility
Drexel is considered an R1 research university with embedded research opportunities available across all disciplines. This university offers 100+ majors, numerous minors, and accelerated 5-year bachelor’s to master’s programs. Small class sizes are a must for each student.
Drexel also offers a first-year exploratory program, where students can check out up to three majors with individual advising included before having to declare a major by the end of their first year.
Admissions At Drexel University
In order to gain admission to Drexel, students must complete an application and turn that in with a completed essay and a letter of recommendation.
The admissions office changed their testing policy in the fall of 2025 to a “no harm” policy. Applicants are instructed to submit scores; however, Admissions will only use those scores if they strengthen the application. About 60% of students this year sent in their scores.
Students can apply Early Action in November, Early Decision (legally binding) in November, or Regular Decision in January.
Campus Life In Philadelphia
Drexel is definitely a vibrant city campus, with over 250 clubs and organizations on campus. The campus is very walkable, with Center City, Market Street, and the 30th Street Station within an easy distance.
One student shared with me that “there is always something to do at Drexel.” He also shared that all museums in Philadelphia are free to students.
Final Thoughts On Drexel University
Drexel has a lot to offer any student, including the “Game of Thrones vibe” that one student shared with me. “I don’t think there’s any other school that has a dragon for a mascot. Cool, right!” If interested, I encourage you to visit both Philadelphia and Drexel. Taking a tour of Drexel will open your eyes to lots of possibilities.
Need Help Navigating The College Process?
If you are interested in the college process and have no idea where to begin, I can help. Reach out at 240-285-1920 or dianne@launchingcollegesuccess.com.
