What is Co-op?
Drexel Co-op: "The Ultimate Internship®" Co-operative education at Drexel enables full-time undergraduate students to alternate periods of classroom theory with professional experience prior to graduation. Participation in co-operative education is available in all academic programs and over 95% of the undergraduates participate in the program.
One of the major reasons undergraduate students choose Drexel is the opportunity to gain six to 18 months of career-related work experience integrated with their coursework. Co-operative education helps students explore and confirm their career choices.
Co-op assists students in several areas of career development, including self-assessment, career exploration, and career experiences leading to full-time employment. Students develop confidence, professionalism, and a sense of purpose.
How does a student obtain a Co-op?
When does a student go on Co-op?
With the exception of Music Industry majors and Entertainment and Arts Management majors, all Westphal College students go on Co-op for six months in the junior year.
Music Industry majors and Entertainment and Arts Management majors go on Co-op in the summer of the sophomore and junior years.
Can a student do more than one Co-op?
With the exception of Music Industry majors and Entertainment and Arts Management majors, all Westphal College students are only required to go on one Co-op
Are students paid while working on Co-op?
Some students are paid while working on Co-op. In some instances, the student may decide to work on a Co-op that doesn't pay.
Since I'm not in school while I'm on Co-op, do I pay tuition?
Co-op is a requirement for graduation and is part of a student's educational experience. The annual tuition bill is not reduced while on Co-op.
Can I Co-op in another city?
Yes. However, students are required to provide their own living arrangements and transportation if they plan to Co-op in another city.
Can I attend classes while on Co-op?
It is not recommended that students take classes while on Co-op.
Students are permitted to take a maximum of six credits per term in the evening during their co-op experience. Four credits per term are included in the annual tuition. The Career Development Office (SCDC) will review the student requests to take courses during co-op experiences to ensure that classes will not conflict with the normal scheduled working hours of the employer.