About Drexel

A distinguished institution with a unique and effective career preparation model.

A Distinguished Institution

Drexel University was founded in 1891 as the Drexel Institute of Art, Science and Industry by Philadelphia financier and philanthropist Anthony J. Drexel to provide educational opportunities in the “practical arts and sciences” for women and men of all backgrounds. Drexel became the Drexel Institute of Technology in 1936, and in 1970 Drexel Institute of Technology gained university status, becoming Drexel University. Although there were many changes during its first century, the university’s identity has been held constant as privately controlled, non-sectarian, coeducational center of higher learning, distinguished by a commitment to preparing both men and women for future success.

The Drexel Difference

The cornerstone of Drexel’s career preparation model has been the University’s co-operative education program. Introduced at Drexel in 1919 as one of the first models of its kind, the program has become integral to the University’s educational experience. Through it, students alternate periods of study with periods of full-time professional employment, providing unrivaled, valuable professional experience. Drexel Co-op is based on paid employment in practical, major-related positions consistent with the interests and abilities of participating students. The benefits are obvious – during their time at Drexel, students experience up to three different co-ops. Because of this, Drexel students graduate having already built a professional network, and they typically receive higher starting salaries than their counterparts from other schools.

Two of the Nation’s Finest

Drexel is joining the University of Pennsylvania to provide athletes with a unique opportunity to train in Philadelphia. Powered by the combined efforts of these two esteemed programs, there is no other RTC in the nation that can provide the particular benefits of these two institutions. See the Penn and Drexel training facilities.