Overview of Drexel University
Drexel University, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a private research university known for its cooperative education (co-op) programs, innovation, and commitment to experiential learning. Founded in 1891 by financier and philanthropist Anthony J. Drexel, the university has grown to become a comprehensive institution offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.
History and Mission:
Drexel University was established with a vision of providing practical education to prepare students for successful careers in a rapidly evolving industrial society. Anthony J. Drexel’s commitment to innovation and experiential learning set the foundation for the university’s mission, which emphasizes combining theory and practice to equip students with the skills needed for the workforce.
Academic Programs:
Drexel University offers a diverse array of academic programs across its colleges and schools, including the College of Engineering, College of Nursing and Health Professions, LeBow College of Business, College of Arts and Sciences, and more. Drexel is particularly well-known for its cooperative education (co-op) programs, which provide students with the opportunity to gain valuable, real-world work experience while earning their degrees.
The university’s commitment to interdisciplinary education is evident through programs that blend technology, business, and the sciences. Drexel’s curriculum is designed to be responsive to industry needs and global trends, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the contemporary job market.
Cooperative Education (Co-op) Programs:
One of Drexel University’s defining features is its cooperative education (co-op) program. Undergraduate students have the opportunity to integrate periods of full-time, paid work experience into their academic studies. These co-op experiences, typically lasting six months, allow students to apply classroom learning to real-world challenges, build professional networks, and explore potential career paths.
The co-op program is a cornerstone of Drexel’s educational model, enhancing students’ employability and providing a competitive edge in the job market. Many Drexel graduates credit their co-op experiences with shaping their career trajectories and providing a practical understanding of their chosen fields.
Campus and Facilities:
Drexel’s urban campus is located in the University City district of Philadelphia, providing students with access to a dynamic and culturally rich city. The campus features modern facilities, including classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and recreational spaces. The Daskalakis Athletic Center (DAC) serves as a hub for fitness and sports activities, and the URBN Center houses facilities for the Westphal College of Media Arts & Design.
Drexel’s commitment to innovation is evident in the Expressive and Creative Interaction Technologies (ExCITe) Center, which fosters collaboration between technology, design, and the arts. The university’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in initiatives such as the Papadakis Integrated Sciences Building, which incorporates environmentally friendly design principles.
Student Life:
Drexel University offers a vibrant and diverse student life. The campus hosts numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities that cater to a wide range of interests. From academic and professional organizations to cultural and recreational groups, students have ample opportunities to engage in extracurricular pursuits.
The student body is active in organizing events, including performances, exhibitions, and community service projects. The university’s central location in Philadelphia provides students with access to a variety of cultural events, museums, and professional opportunities in one of the United States’ most historic cities.
Research and Innovation:
Drexel University is recognized for its commitment to research and innovation. The university is home to several research centers and institutes that focus on areas such as technology, health, and entrepreneurship. Drexel’s emphasis on cutting-edge research contributes to advancements in various fields and provides students with opportunities to engage in impactful projects.
Global Perspective:
Drexel University encourages a global perspective among its students. The university offers study abroad programs, international co-op experiences, and global engagement initiatives. These opportunities allow students to gain cross-cultural competence and a deeper understanding of global issues, preparing them for success in an interconnected world.
Conclusion:
Drexel University stands as a leading institution known for its innovative educational model, commitment to experiential learning, and emphasis on preparing students for successful careers. The integration of cooperative education, a dynamic urban campus, and a dedication to research and innovation contribute to Drexel’s reputation as a forward-thinking university that equips students with the skills and experiences needed to excel in a rapidly evolving world.
3141 Chestnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19104-2875
Phone: (800) 237-3935
Email: enroll@drexel.edu
Web site: http://www.drexel.edu
Rankings: Drexel University
Located in Philadelphia, PA, Drexel University is one of the best universities in the state of Pennsylvania. On this page, you will find in-depth rankings for Drexel University in the following areas: graduation rates, teaching resources, financing opportunities, and alumni donations. Latest acceptance rate is also given to show how competitive is Drexel University.
| Rankings, Ratings, and Admissions Statistics | |
| Overall Ranking: | 88 |
| Score: | 42 |
| Peer college rating (out of 5) | 2.9 |
| Graduation and retention ranking: | 127 |
| Average freshman retention rate: | 83.2% |
| 6-year graduation rate: | 62.0% |
| Predicted graduation rate: | 68% |
| Overperformance(+)/Underperformance(-): | -6 |
| Faculty resources ranking: | 43 |
| Classes with under 20 students (2020): | 63.8% |
| Classes with 50 or more students (2020): | 4.3% |
| Student faculty ratio (2020): | 9:1 |
| Percent of faculty who are full-time (2020) | 83.1% |
| Student selectivity ranking: | 100 |
| SAT/ACT 25th-75th percentile (2020) | 1110-1290 |
| 2020 Freshmen in top 10 percent of high school class: | 32% |
| Freshmen in top 25 percent of high school class (2020): | 63% |
| Fall 2020 Acceptance rate: | 68.2% |
| Financial resources rank: | 47 |
| Alumni giving rank: | 66 |
| Average alumni giving rate (2020): | 17.6% |
Essential Facts: Drexel University
- Drexel was the first major university in America to offer a fully wireless campus in 2000 and many of the courses offered by Drexel can be taken online.
- Drexel University College of Medicine’s education of women and minorities was considered innovative in the 1800s.
- The worst thing about Drexel University is also the best thing–the quarter system. As opposed to semesters like most universities, Drexel uses a quarterly system in which terms are ten weeks long.
Rules and regulations Sports Activities
| General Information | |
| Percent of undergraduate students who live in college-owned, operated, or affiliated housing: | 25% |
| Percent of undergraduates who are members of a fraternity: | 8% |
| Percent of student body who are members of a sorority: | 7% |
| Average percentage of students on campus during weekends: | 50% |
| Are all students permitted to have cars on campus? | Yes |
| Percent of students who have cars on campus: | N/A |
| Is alcohol permitted on campus for students of legal age? | Yes |
| Additional policies and regulations: | hazing prohibited |
| Collegiate athletic association: | NCAA I |
| Men’s scholarship sports: | basketball, golf, lacrosse, soccer, swimming, tennis, wrestling |
| Women’s scholarship sports: | basketball, crew (heavyweight), field hockey, lacrosse, crew (lightweight), soccer, softball, swimming, tennis |
| Student activities: | choral groups, concert band, dance, drama/theater, jazz band, literary magazine, music ensembles, musical theater, pep band, radio station, student government, student newspaper, student film society, television station, yearbook |