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EXP 1001

Every first-year student takes EXP 1001, a course designed to help students realize the full value of their Drexel education from day one by connecting classroom learning with co-op, research, community engagement, leadership and future career goals.

EXP 1001 also introduces first-year students to AI literacy, helping them begin to understand how emerging technologies can be used thoughtfully and responsibly in learning and the work environment.

Core Competencies

Along with expertise in their major, every Drexel undergraduate student develops three Core Competencies:

• Inquire & Analyze: Ask meaningful questions, evaluate information and use evidence to make decisions and design solutions.
• Collaborate & Integrate: Work across perspectives and disciplines, connect ideas and communicate effectively.
• Apply & Engage: Use knowledge, tools and techniques to address real-world challenges in professional, civic and global settings.

These competencies are woven throughout the curriculum and co-curriculum, helping students develop and practice durable skills through coursework, experiential learning and discipline-specific study.

Flexible Academic Pathways

The redesigned curriculum is intended to give students more room to explore while continuing to make progress toward graduation — whether that means adding a minor, combining interests across fields, studying abroad or pursuing an ambitious academic path from the start.

A more flexible degree structure can make it easier for students to personalize their academic path and connect ideas and approaches across disciplines.

Semesters and Summer 

Beginning in Fall 2027, Drexel will operate on a semester calendar with longer terms that provide more time to engage deeply with course material and can expand access to study abroad, research, exchange programs, traditional internships and other experiential learning opportunities.

A 12-week summer term, comprising a full term or two compressed six-week parts of term, will provide flexibility to support co-op cycles, coursework and opportunities such as research and global experiences.

Note: Graduate and professional programs that already follow a semester calendar will continue according to program-specific guidance.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

Beginning with the Fall 2027 entering class, all undergraduates will complete at least one Experiential Learning Opportunity, reinforcing that learning by doing is a defining part of the Drexel experience.

Students can fulfill the requirement through experiences such as co-op, research, civic and community engagement, study abroad and project-based learning.

Co-op

Co-op remains central to Drexel. Students use Drexel’s signature co-op program to build skills, test career interests, develop professional relationships and make more informed decisions about what comes next.

The redesigned curriculum strengthens connections between academic learning, co-op and the broader set of experiential learning opportunities.

Industry and Community Connections

For Fall 2027, every Drexel program and course was reviewed and redesigned. Many perspectives informed the work, including feedback from Drexel’s network of employers, alumni, industry, civic and community partners.

These ongoing relationships help Drexel remain connected to evolving technologies, workforce needs and societal challenges. Faculty continue to lead curriculum design.

Philadelphia

Drexel’s location in Philadelphia gives students access to one of the nation’s most dynamic centers for healthcare, business, technology, media, government, education and the arts.

The city creates opportunities for co-op, research, community-engaged learning, entrepreneurship, cultural experiences and professional networking throughout a student’s education.