Drexel University is a private research university in Philadelphia known for its cooperative education program, which gives students up to 18 months of professional work experience before graduation. Its quarter system and strong programs in engineering, business, and health sciences emphasize practical, career-ready education in a major urban setting.
Mascot: Dragon
Notable Alumni
Paul Baran (co-inventor of the internet)•Norman Woodland (inventor of the barcode)•Christopher Ferguson (NASA astronaut)
At a Glance
Cost
Published sticker prices for 2025-2026. Actual cost after aid varies.
Top Programs & National Ranking
Approximate national ranking based on departmental rankings, research output, and program reputation.
Highlights
Campus Experience
Drexel's relentless quarter system and co-op rotations (required for most majors) mean students are constantly toggling between 10-week academic sprints and full-time jobs — social life takes a backseat by design. Greek life exists (~14%) but without a traditional Greek Row; parties happen off-campus or at neighboring Penn. Philadelphia is your social outlet, because the campus itself rarely stops moving long enough to party.
Urban campus in University City with a functional mix of older institutional buildings and modern glass structures that prioritizes practicality over aesthetic cohesion.
Based on Niche reviews, Princeton Review surveys, student forums, and institutional data.
Safety
CALEA-accredited police department with Allied Universal security patrols by foot, bike, and vehicle plus walking escorts. Most common crimes are theft of unattended property.
University City is relatively safe for Philadelphia with strong institutional investment, but West Philadelphia overall sees above-average property crime. Stay within the well-patrolled University City corridor.
Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.
Plan Your Visit
Schedule: Mon-Fri and most Saturdays year-round
Duration: ~90 minutes (info session + campus walking tour)
Register online or call 1-800-2-DREXEL. Virtual info sessions and tours (~30 min) also available. Campus located in University City, Philadelphia.
Book a TourVirtual tour provides a ~30-min look at key campus locations including historical landmarks, classrooms, athletic facilities, and residence halls. Campus is in an urban setting and freely walkable.
Tour ResourcesOctober through November or March through May when the co-op schedule has most students on campus. Drexel runs on a quarter system with co-op rotations, so campus population fluctuates — check the academic calendar. Avoid late December through mid-January.
Drexel Parking Garage at 34th St between Chestnut and Market ($16+/day). Park America at 3101 Market St also available. Metered street parking on surrounding streets (quarters, dollars, credit cards). Best by transit: 30th Street Station (Amtrak/SEPTA) is just 2 blocks east — walk west on Market St. Nearest airport: Philadelphia International (PHL), ~20 min via I-76.
Location
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