Drexel University 

About: 

Drexel is a comprehensive global research university with a unique model of experiential learning that combines academic rigor with one of the nation’s premier cooperative education programs. Drexel has built its global reputation on core achievements that include leadership in experiential learning through Drexel Co-op, a history of academic technology firsts, and recognition as a model of best practices in translational, use-inspired research. 

Founded in 1891 in Philadelphia, Drexel now engages with students and communities around the world via three Philadelphia campuses and other regional sites; the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, the nation’s oldest major natural science museum and research organisation; international research partnerships including China and Israel; and Drexel Online, one of the oldest and most successful providers of online degree programs. 

Drexel is one of Philadelphia's top 10 private employers, and a major engine for economic development in the region. Drexel has committed to being the nation’s most civically engaged university, with community partnerships integrated into every aspect of service and academics. 

Contact at Drexel:

Casey Devine inboundexchange@drexel.edu

3141 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States 

Highlights: 

Catering for roughly 26,000 students, Drexel offers around 200 degree programmes. These include over 80 undergraduate majors, more than a dozen accelerated degree programmes, and around 120 degrees and certificates for graduates and professionals. 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. 

Location: 

Drexel University is in Philadelphia , the birthplace of the United States, and its' sixth most populous city.  With plenty of trees, coffee shops, restaurants and even a farmers market, Drexel’s urban campus is a breath of fresh air in the heart of Philadelphia. This exciting city is known as much for its food and culture as innovation and technology. It’s within easy reach of New York City and offers a rich student life, with more than 90 colleges and universities in the city and its surrounds. 

Courses / Modules: 

• Most courses and all departments are open to exchange students although some may require prerequisite confirmation. 

• The course catalogue serves as a general guide to the courses available. However, not all courses may be available in each term and some may be restricted.

• Students from PPE should look at these courses in the College of Arts and Science or Global Studies

Credit (Full-time Load per semester): 

Students should take 4 courses/modules per quarter, taking a minimum of 14 Drexel credits and a maximum of 16 Drexel credits. Each quarter is worth 20 ECTS / 40 York credits. 

14 to 16 Drexel credits = 40 York credits 

42 to 48 Drexel credits = 120 York credits 

This has been calculated by the University of York and students should not compare it with the requirements of other universities.  Taking insufficient credits can lead to students failing the year. Any alteration to credits/modules must be discussed with your department prior to making any changes.

Teaching Periods: 

The academic year at Drexel is split into three terms: Fall, Winter and Spring.

Access Drexel's calendar. 

Language:

• Classes at Drexel are taught in English. 

• You may be required to provide evidence of your English language ability if English is not your first language. 

Accommodation: 

• On-campus housing is available although not guaranteed.

• Off-campus housing is also available. Students must arrange off-campus accommodation independently.

• Information on housing can be found on the Drexel web-pages

Support Services:

Student Diversity and Inclusion

The Office of Equality and Diversity has resources specifically for students with disabilities. 

Visas: 

• All incoming exchange students are required to obtain a J-1 student visa

• Drexel will issue a DS-2019 visa document to students upon acceptance.

Medical Aid: 

All exchange students must:

• purchase Drexel's health insurance in order to meet US immigration health insurance requirement

• pay an immunisation fee

• complete required immunisations

Travel insurance: 

If you are approved by the University of York to participate in this program, you will be covered by the University's Travel Insurance Policy. This is a complimentary policy to cover you for the duration of your University of York mobility experience. Please refer to the Insurance website for all travel insurance queries.  You may be required to obtain health insurance valid during your exchange. 

Finance:

COST AND BUDGET*

Housing $3,000-$5,000/quarter

Meals $1,000-$2,000/quarter

Books $300-$500/quarter

Health Insurance $650-$2,350/quarter Immunizations $35 (one-time fee)

Personal Expenses varies

SEVIS & Visa Fees $450 (one-time fee)

*The above amounts are estimates and are subject to change. Total does not include airfare or personal travel expenses.

SCHOLARSHIPS

Every term, up to 3 inbound exchange students are awarded $500 in the form of a scholarship to blog for Drexel Global. You can read the blog posts of previous recipients on the Drexel web page

Ben, Biology, Year Abroad 2023/24

"I am still enjoying my stay. I spent Easter on the other side of the country in California at a flat mate's house for 10 days! This was very kind of him and his family! I saw hummingbirds, sea lions, seals and pelicans! I also visited San Diego, Los Angeles and many areas between. This was fun, however living with another family got me excited for seeing my own, so I have started looking for gifts for them. I feel more independent and confident, as I am still here and haven't felt particularly homesick. My finances went pretty good as the workload has been high so I don't do as much in the week, and legally can't go out, so I save money there. I am quite sociable and outgoing so I befriended my neighbors pretty quickly. I also think its useful planning things such as film nights or card games, then inviting people over. I think often people are greatful for a friend but afraid to make the first move."

Georgia, Criminology, Year Abroad 2022/23

While at Drexel I was studying BSc Criminology & Justice Studies. During my 1st Quarter I significantly enhanced my knowledge in several new Criminology areas, especially with an in-depth focus on the fields of Computer Crime and Sentencing. A positive aspect of the American University system is that students can choose the modules they undertake during their studies. I have been able to use this to tailor my studies to specific areas that I have a passion for and a deep interest in which helped me to achieve exceptional results.

At Drexel University you also get the opportunity to study modules that are not directly related to your Major (i.e., Criminology). I have found this approach helpful as it has allowed me to also broaden my knowledge… in Q1 I was able to undertake a Law module in the American Legal system learning from a professor who is a leading US Lawyer practicing in New York. In Q2 I completed an American Government module which helped me develop my understanding of International Politics in relation to how the US government was formed and that has been impacted in the recent years. In my final quarter I enrolled in another Law module, Law and religion in the US, which was interesting as it focused on how religion was crucial in the formation of the city of Philadelphia itself. 

I was also fortunate to explore surrounding areas of Philadelphia like the Poconos Mountains, Jim Thorpe, Yuengling Brewery, Longwood gardens and NYC during my time at Drexel before my return to the UK. 

Studying in America has boosted my confidence and is a solid investment in my future. I feel more independent and have proven I can adapt well to new environments. I have made some excellent connections with other students and Drexel Academic staff. Before this experience I wanted to work in the US and this opportunity allowed me to confirm that this is the goal to work towards. Not only has this been an amazing experience but it will hopefully make me stand out when applying for jobs. 

• Drexel University

• Drexel International Office

• Foreign Commonwealth Office Advice

• Numbeo - cost of living comparison site

• Expatistan - cost of living comparison site

• US Embassy FAQ's Travel and visas

If you find any broken links, please email us at global-opportunities@york.ac.uk

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