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Drexel University

Drexel University is a leading global research institution, renowned for its cooperative education program and innovative approach to learning.
Drexel University
Dean

John A. Fry (President)

Academic staff
1,000 - 20,000
Students
25000
Locations
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Established
1891
Afiliations
NAICU, Space-grant
Address
3141 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
Social Media
URL
https://drexel.edu/

Summary
History
Courses
Global MBA rankings
Job integration rate
General information
Summary

Drexel University, a private research institution in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was founded in 1891 by financier and philanthropist Anthony J. Drexel. Initially established as the Drexel Institute of Art, Science, and Industry, it evolved into the Drexel Institute of Technology in 1936 before acquiring its current name in 1970. As of 2022, the university had an undergraduate enrollment of 12,482 and a total student population exceeding 24,000, offering over 70 undergraduate programs and more than 100 master's, doctoral, and professional programs. The university's main campus spans 96 acres and is situated in Philadelphia’s University City.

Drexel is particularly renowned for its cooperative education program (co-op), one of the largest and oldest in the United States. This program enables students to gain up to 18 months of paid, full-time work experience related to their field of study before graduation. Students often earn an average of $16,000 during each six-month co-op period, with many securing job offers from their co-op employers upon graduation. Drexel’s co-op program has established partnerships with over 1,600 employers worldwide, contributing to the university’s strong emphasis on experiential learning.

Academically, Drexel University is organised into several schools and colleges, including the College of Engineering, LeBow College of Business, and the College of Medicine. The College of Engineering, one of the oldest and largest at Drexel, has a distinguished history and is notable for creating the world’s first engineering degree in appropriate technology. The LeBow College of Business is well-regarded, with its programs in entrepreneurship and online MBA ranked among the best in the United States.

The university also offers a wide range of student activities and opportunities for involvement, with over 300 student clubs and organisations, including more than 30 fraternities and sororities. Drexel’s athletics teams, the Drexel Dragons, compete in NCAA Division I as part of the Colonial Athletic Association. Additionally, the university’s location in Philadelphia provides easy access to the city’s public transportation network and proximity to other prominent educational institutions.

In national rankings, Drexel University is consistently recognised for its innovative approach to education and research. In the 2024 edition of Best Colleges by U.S. News & World Report, Drexel was ranked #98 among National Universities and #18 in the "Most Innovative Schools" category. The university’s focus on research is also highlighted by its classification as an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity" institution.

Notable alumni of Drexel University include Michael Anderson, a former professional basketball player, and Earle I. Mack, a former U.S. ambassador to Finland. The university continues to play a significant role in higher education, offering a unique blend of academic rigour and practical experience.

History

Drexel University was founded in 1891 as the Drexel Institute of Art, Science, and Industry by Anthony J. Drexel, a Philadelphia financier and philanthropist. Drexel's vision was to create an institution that provided educational opportunities in practical arts and sciences, accessible to both women and men of all backgrounds. This mission was innovative at the time, as higher education was typically reserved for the upper class and focused on traditional academic subjects rather than practical skills.

The institute was originally non-degree-granting, focusing on providing students with the skills necessary to succeed in the rapidly industrialising world. The Main Building, dedicated in 1891, remains a significant landmark on the Drexel campus.

In 1936, the institution was renamed the Drexel Institute of Technology, reflecting its growing emphasis on technical education. This period marked the beginning of Drexel's evolution into a comprehensive university. By 1914, Drexel had begun conferring Bachelor of Science degrees, and in 1927, it was granted the authority to award Master of Science degrees. The institution continued to expand its academic offerings, with the Doctor of Philosophy degree introduced in 1965.

A significant milestone in Drexel's history was the introduction of the cooperative education program in 1919. This program, which allows students to alternate between classroom-based study and full-time, practical work experience, has become a cornerstone of Drexel's educational philosophy. It reflects Anthony Drexel's original vision of providing hands-on, practical education.

The institution underwent another name change in 1970, becoming Drexel University, which signified its status as a comprehensive university with a strong emphasis on research.

Drexel University underwent significant transformation during the presidency of Dr. Constantine Papadakis from 1995 to 2009. Under his leadership, Drexel expanded its programs, enrollment, and facilities, seeing a 471% increase in its endowment and a 102% increase in student enrollment. The university adopted a more selective admissions process and implemented a more rigorous academic program. Papadakis also oversaw Drexel's largest expansion in its history, enhancing its reputation and academic standing.

In 2002, Drexel acquired the former MCP Hahnemann University, creating the Drexel University College of Medicine. This acquisition expanded Drexel's influence in the medical and health sciences. The establishment of the Thomas R. Kline School of Law in 2006 further solidified Drexel's status as a comprehensive research university. In 2011, the School of Law achieved full accreditation by the American Bar Association.

Under the leadership of John Anderson Fry, who succeeded Papadakis in 2010, Drexel has continued to expand. In 2011, Drexel acquired the Academy of Natural Sciences, a move that strengthened its research capabilities and historical roots, as the Academy can trace its origins back to 1812.

Drexel has been at the forefront of technological innovation in education. In 1983, it became the first university in the United States to require all undergraduates to use microcomputers, providing students with Macintosh 128Ks. This commitment to integrating technology into education has continued, with Drexel becoming the first major university to operate a fully wireless campus in 2000.

In 2024, Drexel acquired Salus University, further expanding its programs in health-related fields. This acquisition reflects Drexel's ongoing commitment to adapting to the needs of society and maintaining its relevance in the ever-evolving landscape of higher education.

Throughout its history, Drexel University has remained true to Anthony J. Drexel's original vision of providing practical, hands-on education. The university's cooperative education program continues to be one of the largest and most renowned in the country, providing students with invaluable real-world experience. Drexel's commitment to inclusion, technological innovation, and academic excellence has made it a leader in higher education, both nationally and globally. 

Courses

Drexel University offers a diverse range of courses through its various colleges, catering to a wide array of academic interests and professional aspirations.

The College of Arts and Sciences provides undergraduate and graduate programs across humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Students can study subjects like biology, chemistry, and psychology, with options for interdisciplinary studies tailored to individual career goals.

The Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design features 18 undergraduate and nine graduate programmes in modern art and design. It covers fields such as architecture, fashion design, and digital media, preparing students for creative careers in media and arts.

The Bennett S. LeBow College of Business, established in 1896, offers a comprehensive range of business programs. It includes thirteen undergraduate majors, eight graduate programs, and two doctoral degrees. Notable offerings include a highly regarded online MBA and top-ranked entrepreneurship programmes.

Within the LeBow College, the School of Economics provides undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs focusing on economic theory, international trade, and applied economics. It is known for its research output and prepares students for careers in academia and beyond.

The College of Engineering offers a robust curriculum with degrees in various engineering disciplines, including mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering. It also features a unique programme in architectural engineering and was a pioneer in appropriate technology.

The College of Computing and Informatics offers programs in computer science, software engineering, and cybersecurity, blending technical knowledge with practical skills across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels.

Drexel’s College of Medicine provides extensive medical and health science programs, including over 40 graduate courses. Students can specialise in fields like biochemistry and clinical research.

The School of Biomedical Engineering, Science, and Health Systems focuses on the intersection of engineering and medical sciences, offering courses in bioinformatics, biomechanics, and neuroengineering.

The College of Nursing and Health Professions has over 25 programmes in nursing, nutrition, and health sciences, preparing students for diverse roles in healthcare. The Richard C. Goodwin College of Professional Studies caters to adult learners with part-time, evening, and online options for degrees and certifications.

The Pennoni Honors College enriches the academic experience for high-achieving students through honours classes, research opportunities, and leadership development. The Thomas R. Kline School of Law offers J.D., L.L.M., and Master of Legal Studies degrees, integrating cooperative education to provide practical legal experience.

The School of Education provides programs in teacher education and educational leadership, including doctoral degrees focusing on educational innovations. The Dornsife School of Public Health offers undergraduate and graduate programmes in public health, emphasising research and community partnerships.

The Centre for Hospitality and Sport Management offers courses in hospitality, tourism, and sport management, combining industry-specific skills with business principles. The Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship focuses on entrepreneurship and innovation, with opportunities for students to develop their own ventures.

Drexel University Online offers over 100 accredited programmes in a flexible format for working professionals and non-traditional students.

The Cooperative Education Program allows students to gain up to 18 months of paid work experience, enhancing their employability and professional skills through real-world application of their studies.

Global MBA rankings

Drexel University is distinguished by its global rankings and recognitions, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence and innovation. 

In the 2023 U.S. News & World Report, Drexel is tied for 98th among national universities in the United States. It is also recognised as one of the "Most Innovative Schools," tied for 18th in this category, highlighting its forward-thinking approach to education. Additionally, Drexel ranks 95th in the "Best Value Schools" and is placed among the top performers in social mobility, tying for 273rd place. These rankings underscore Drexel's dedication to providing quality education while supporting students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.

The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse rankings for 2024 place Drexel 54th among 400 institutions in the United States, further affirming its status as a leading university. Drexel is also ranked 31st nationally and 6th in Pennsylvania, demonstrating its regional and national impact. Furthermore, the Department of Education's 2022 College Scorecard ranks Drexel among the top 40 comprehensive research universities in the United States, emphasising its significant contributions to research and innovation.

Globally, Drexel's reputation is solidified through its rankings in international assessments. According to the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU), Drexel falls within the 401–500 range globally. The QS World University Rankings place Drexel within the 721–730 bracket, while the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings position the university in the 301–350 range. U.S. News & World Report ranks Drexel 428th globally, illustrating its competitive standing in the international academic arena.

In terms of specialised rankings, Drexel’s graduate schools also receive notable recognition. The university's engineering programmes are ranked 74th, while its law school is positioned at 93rd, and its medical school, focusing on both primary care and research, is ranked between 91 and 122. The nursing master’s programme is ranked 89th, highlighting Drexel’s strength in these critical fields.

Drexel’s business programmes have also earned accolades, with Bloomberg Businessweek ranking the undergraduate business programme 78th in the country in 2016, and Business Insider ranking its graduate business school 19th for networking in 2014. Furthermore, Forbes has recognised Drexel as one of the top 24 STEM universities in 2018, reinforcing its reputation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education.

Job integration rate

Drexel University has demonstrated a robust job integration rate, with a placement rate of 88% recorded in 2018. Of the 467 graduates, 96% responded to the graduate outcomes survey, reflecting a strong engagement in tracking career outcomes. The average salary for Drexel graduates was USD 58,710, with top employers including Johnson & Johnson, KPMG, and PwC. Notably, 95% of employed graduates secured positions within the United States, highlighting the university's effectiveness in preparing students for the domestic job market. Drexel’s on-campus employment opportunities, facilitated through student Handshake profiles, further support successful job integration.

General information
Drexel University
Dean

John A. Fry (President)

Academic staff
1,000 - 20,000
Students
25000
Locations
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Established
1891
Afiliations
NAICU, Space-grant
Address
3141 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
Social Media
URL
https://drexel.edu/