Graduate - FAQs

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Where/ what is the PSA Building?

The PSA (or Psychology, Sociology, and Anthropology) Building is located at the corner of 33rd and Powelton Streets. It currently houses the Culture and Communication Department, though its name still reflects a pre-2001 usage. On some Drexel maps, it is also called the “Neuropsychology Clinic.” Adjacent to this building is the English Language Center, which also shares space with the Modern Languages department. To enter the PSA Building, you must approach the door by the parking lot and use your Drexel Student ID card or ring a buzzer.

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Who is my advisor?

For academic matters:

All Graduate Students: Dr. Ernest Hakanen, 325 PSA, eah22@drexel.edu, 215.895.1354

For non-academic matters (i.e. course registration, schedules, adding or dropping courses):

Caroline Chmielewski Program Coordinator II 47-117 (PSA Building) Email: chmielcm@drexel.edu Phone: 215.895.1313

Sharon Wallace Program Coordinator I 47- 101 (PSA Building) Email: skw@drexel.edu Phone: 215.895.2456

Department Head:
Wesley Shumar, 215 PSA, shumarw@drexel.edu, 215.895.2060

Assistant Dept Head:
Simone Schlichting-Artur, 48-211, schlichs@drexel.edu, 215-895.2443

 

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Will my major follow the semester system or the quarter system?

It will follow the quarter system.

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What are my department’s requirements for graduation?

Please click here for advising forms for Graduate students:

• Master of Science in Communication - Students choose a concentration within this program, studying either Public Communication, Techincal Writing, or Science Writing.
  
  
• Master of Science in Environmental Policy - Provides a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach to the development, implementation, and evaluation of environmental policy.
  
  
• Master of Science in Publication Management - To produce well-informed and skilled publishing professionals. Students will understand state-of-the-art publishing methods and receive grounding in publishing principles in each discipline.

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How do I find a co-op/internship?

This varies between majors, and between graduate and undergraduate programs. Generally, students are expected to be proactive and independent in their search. Some possible ways to search for and secure available positions include networking with students and professors in your major; searching through job postings available through DrexelOne and through department emails, news, and alerts; local newspaper and online listings, and signing up with a staffing agency. Consult the department handbook and meet with your advisor to discuss options and requirements for your course of study.

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I am already employed in my field. Do I need an internship or co-op?

For graduate students, depending on your major or field, you may be able to waive this requirement. Please consult the student handbook for your major.

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Are there any on-campus employment opportunities available?

Campus employment opportunities are offered through the financial aid office. Please contact 215-895-2537 or visit http://www.drexel.edu/financialaid .

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May I take courses outside my department?

Yes. This is in fact a great way to enrich your knowledge of your current field/major. There are three factors to consider as you “branch out.” First, take note of any existing prerequisites for the course. Second, in certain cases, you may also need to request permission from the department head or coordinator. Finally, you must choose a graduate-level course, so opt for something in which you already have a working knowledge.

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I’d like to change my status (part time to full-time or full time to part time). What do I need to do?

First, notify your advisor of this change before the quarter begins. Then contact the financial aid office (215) 895-2537 and the billing office (215).

Fill out a revised Institutional Financial Aid application: http://www.drexel.edu/financialaid/PDF/institutional_fa_app.pdf

and a Change of Curriculum and Status Form: http://www.drexel.edu/src/forms/Change_of_Curriculum_and_Status.pdf

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I’d like to change my status (part time to full-time or full time to part time). What do I need to do?

First, notify your advisor of this change before the quarter begins. Then contact the financial aid office (215) 895-2537 and the billing office (215).

Fill out a revised Institutional Financial Aid application: http://www.drexel.edu/financialaid/PDF/institutional_fa_app.pdf